Energetics Hub Cranfield Universityofficial2

V1.0 OFFICIAL 09 May 2018 Cranfield U - Centre for Defence Chemistry Graduate Placement Date Version 1.0 Drafted 10 August 2015 (x2) Where The Cranfield University Centre for Defence Chemistry (CfDC) is based at the Defence Academy of UK in Shrivenham. The majority of the 9-month placement will be either at this site or at COTEC. The placement will be either with the Test and Evaluation Group or COTEC depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. Overview1 The CfDC encompasses all aspects of research, consultancy and teaching in synthesis & formulations, testing & evaluation, safety & reliability, ageing & recycling, life & risk assessment of explosive, propellant and pyrotechnic materials. The CfDC has extensive accredited analytical facilities for the testing and evaluation of explosives and explosive materials to a range of national and international standards. The CfDC has remote facilities for the manufacture of up to 500 grams of energetic compositions. Small scale hazard testing (SSHT) Learning Outcomes

Work on the standard tests within the small scale hazard testing capability.  Have developed first-hand knowledge of the properties of various materials, and be able to extrapolate about physical properties &  Testing a range of different materials with different sensitivities, interpreting the behaviours. data and appreciating the impact on the handling of those materials in larger quantities.  Able to interpret test data and to use this knowledge to determine the measures required to safely work with these materials.  Assisting in the development of the SSHT techniques and developing a greater understanding of the test data.  Demonstrate the ability to apply functional knowledge and experience to a customer problem, to present key points and to  The candidate will present the outcome of the study. compile a technical report. Equipment evaluation / novel concepts experimental trial Learning Outcomes

It is not possible to specify the precise nature of the project until nearer to the start  Practical application of theory and previous experience into all parts of placement, but the candidate will learn about the technical background and of the design, evaluation and execution of trials. requirements for the project and the CfDC Trials Planning and Risk Assessment process for energetics trials.  Able to identify hazard and risks and how to mitigate them  Input to design of trial, having understood the parameters being  Experimental design, planning and execution of one or more energetics explored. trials:  Being able to collate information and analyse and interpret results. o Evaluating new techniques or equipment  Understand the roles and responsibilities of a Trials Officer o capability/ threat assessment studies or; (technical and legal).

o novel charge concepts for special applications.  Able to be a team member in a trial.  Able to distil conclusions into a customer-deliverable report.  Work as a trials team member under the supervision of a CU Trials Manager,

1 Cranfield University will select the most appropriate team(s) and work programme to meet the training needs, interests and expertise of the participant.

Energetics Hub – Cranfield University OFFICIAL 1 V1.0 OFFICIAL 09 May 2018 o participate in the experimental trial(s),

o conduct post trials analysis of data, and

o write up the results.

Instrumentation and diagnostics Learning Outcomes

A hands-on opportunity to learn about measurement and instrumentation techniques  Understand instrumentation techniques (how and when to use for energetics experiments, particularly high-speed transient dynamic events them). associated with explosions. The candidate will learn about the following techniques  Experience of assisting in set up of a trial.

 Blast measurement, including calibration and dynamic assessment of  Understand technical aspect eg signal checking and conditioning transducers using a shock tube. and interpretation in context of the overall trial objective.  Understanding data to be collected and able to predict how/why a  Velocity measurements. specific technique should be used (and how to maximise chances of  High speed video analysis. data capture first time) with no unplanned equipment damage.  Able to predict likely problems (siting, accuracy damage,  Setting instrumentation for trials, power, cable layout, signal conditioning, consistency of information etc). data acquisition system, triggering.

 Interpreting signal records, checking for measurement fidelity during the trial and data analysis of records post-trial.

 Other techniques depending on particular project requirements.

Energetics Hub – Cranfield University OFFICIAL 2