Basic Ammo Theory and Disposal Procedures

MECHEM (Pty) Ltd
Training Notes
Basic Ammunition Theory

and
Demolition Procedures
L2
MECHEM (Pty) Ltd - Training Notes: Basic Ammo and Disposal Procedures Jun 08
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BASIC AMMUNITION THEORY

Definition
Ammunition are all objects loaded with explosive or any other material capable to create
certain/specific effect on the target.
Generally speaking, mines are considered as the ammunition.
There are many different types of ammunition in use today. They have a very wide spectrum of
use, sizes, shapes, constructive parameters, ways of launching and effects on target.
Ammunition have the same parts/components which assist or contribute towards rendering the
desired effect on a specific target.
Basic Components of Ammunition:
propellant elements ( powder-charge, rocket engine, etc.)
activating elements for power section ( ignition cap, canon cap, detonating fuses, etc.)
guiding elements ( ring, models, driving systems, etc.)
mechanical casing-elements ( cover, body, etc.)
action elements ( charge, cover, etc.)
activating-on-target elements (final action elements - detonator, explosive charge, etc.)
Besides them, we can find some other elements in use with the purpose to improve
performances, safety and exploitation of ammunition:
tracking elements ( tracers )
aerodynamic elements ( ballistics cap )
self-destruction elements ( self-destuctors ) etc.
BASIC CLASSIFICATIONOF AMMUNITION.
Small Calibre ammunition
Artillery ammunition
Mortar ammunition
Rockets
Hand Grenades
Rifle Grenades
Aircraft Bombs
Land-mines
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Sea-mines
Torpedoes
The basic difference between ammunition and mines is that ammunition affects a target actually
and mines wait passively on the target.
BASIC USE OF AMMUNITION:
Dropped munitions
bomb
Projected munitions
artillery shell; mortar shell; rifle grenade; rocket.
Placed munitions
mines; demolition-charges
Scattered munitions -
sub-ammunition
The Identification of Ammunition.

Recognition and identification of a UXO is vitally important to avoid unnecessary loss of live and
destruction or damage to property and services. The following can assist in
recognizing/identifying of ammunition.
a.
Color Coding System.

Painting of ammunition has three reasons :
To protect the ammunition against weather influences
Camouflage of the ammunition.
Identification purposes.
The identification of UXO will require the reporting of all facts about the item. The
color scheme and markings of the item will be very important in identifying the
UXO. ie;
ground color
colored bands
stamped markings.
For example;
HE round
- green with yellow markings
Smoke rounds
- green with yellow markings and black band.
Illuminating rounds
- green with yellow markings and white band.
Armor piercing
- black with white markings
Training rounds
- white with black markings
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b.
Caliber
This is the measurement of a tube launched projectile, at its thickest part, not
being the rotating band. The calibre can be given in mm, cm or inches. In most
cases the cal is stamped on the body.
c.
Method of Stabilization
Spin projectiles which maintain their stability in flight by means of spin imparted
by rotating bands are classified as spin stabilized projectiles. These projectiles
may have one or more rotating bands located to the rear of the center of gravity.
The bands may vary in with, and, and on some projectiles, rotating bands may fly
off revealing the band seat. The seat area usually includes a distinct pattern of
the rotating bands for example; artillery shells; small arms ammunition;
Fin projectiles stabilized in flight by fins are classified as fin stabilized, for
example; mortar shells; and some rockets.
d.
Types of Targets
To establish the level of lethality the ammunition designer has to achieve, the full
range of possible targets has to be identified and then examined for their
vulnerability to different modes of attack.
The main types of targets with which land forces are confronted are people,
armored vehicles, structures, equipment and aircraft. This ambit of targets is not
exhaustive, nor are the targets listed in any form of priority. It is, however, worth
looking at them in some detail to identify and consider the factors, which affect
their vulnerability.
i.
Attack of People
SAA
HE
ii.
Attack of Armor
HEAT HESH APHE AP
APCBCHVAP APDS HVAPFSDS-
iii.
Small arms ammunition

high explosive
high explosive anti tank.

high explosive squash head
armor piercing high explosive
armor piercing)
armor piercing capped ballistic capped
high velocity armor piercing
armor piercing discarding sabot
high velocity armor piercing fin stabilized discarding sabot
Attack of Aircraft in Flight.

He-frag ( high explosive fragmentation )
Special ammunition
Carrier projectiles
ILL ( illuminating )
SMK ( smoke )
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SMKBE ( smoke base ejecting )

SMK PHOS ( smoke phosphor )
INC ( incendiary )
Chemical
Small Arms Ammunition and Anti Aircraft Artillery Ammunition up to 37mm
Small Arms Ammunition
Small Arms Ammunition refers to all rifle and machine gun ammunition up to, but not including,
20mm.
Projectiles for small arms ammunition are known as bullets.
Generally, small arms ammunition does not have explosive filled bullets (the 12.7mm MZ round
is an exception), but some bullets may contain pyrotechnic or incendiary composition. Bullet
types commonly encountered are shown at figure 1 and are as follows:
Ball.
This is the standard rifle, pistol or machine gun bullet, it consists of a copper or guilding
metal jacket and a core of lead to give weight.
Ball, steel core.

This type of bullet has a copper or guilding metal jacket and a mild steel core to enhance
penetration against helmets and other hard targets. There is a lead sleeve in between
the jacket and core so that the bullet can be squeezed into the rifling without excessive
wear on the barrel.
Tracer.
This type of bullet has a copper or guilding metal jacket a lead insert in the tip and an
internal copper capsule containing tracer composition so that the flight of the bullet can
be observed to the target. Tracer rounds are often mixed with ball rounds in ammunition
belts for machine guns so that the strike of the bullets on a target can easily be observed.
AP (Armour Piercing) Ball.

This type of bullet has a copper or guilding metal envelope and a hard steel core to
enhance penetration against hard targets such as Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).
There is a lead sleeve in between the jacket and core so that the bullet can be squeezed
into the rifling without excessive wear on the barrel.
API (Armour Piercing Incendiary).

This type of bullet has a copper or guilding metal envelope and a hard steel core to
enhance penetration against hard targets such as APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers).
Inside the bullet tip, in front of the hard steel core is incendiary composition so that
inflammable materials such as petrol tanks can be ignited when the bullet hits a hard
surface. Like the AP bullet there is a lead sleeve in between the jacket and core so that
the bullet can be squeezed into the rifling without excessive wear on the barrel.
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APIT (Armour Piercing Incendiary Tracer).

This is similar in construction and effect to the API bullet but has a shorter hard steel core
behind of which is the tracer capsule so that the flight of the bullet to the target can be
observed. The APIT is often mixed in ammunition belts with the API rounds.
Ammunition 20mm to 37mm

Ammunition 20mm to 37mm is designed primarily for use in automatic cannons for use against
aircraft, or for use by helicopters or aircraft to use against ground targets or other aircraft.
20mm to 37mm ammunition is often termed Triple A which stands for Anti Aircraft Artillery (AAA)
but included in this group are anti aircraft guns above 37mm (e.g. 57mm S-60).
The rounds of ammunition are always of the QF Fixed type. There are normally 8 types of
projectile
HEI (High Explosive Incendiary).
HEI-T (High Explosive Incendiary Tracer).
HE Frag-T (High Explosive Fragmentation-Tracer).
AP-T (Armour Piercing Tracer).
APHC-T (Armour Piercing Hard Core Tracer).
API-T (Armour Piercing Incendiary Tracer).
APHE (Armour Piercing High Explosive).
APHE-T (Armour Piercing High Explosive Tracer).
HEI (High Explosive Incendiary)

This projectile is normally filled with RDX/Wax/Aluminium High Explosive Incendiary
filling. The Aluminium blended with the RDX High Explosive provides the Incendiary
effect to ensure that maximum damage is caused to aircraft when they are hit and that
fuel and other inflammable substances will burn. The fuze is of the impact type but it will
normally incorporate a self-destruct mechanism to ensure the projectile explodes in the
air and does not fall back to the ground and explode.
HEI-T (High Explosive Incendiary Tracer).

The High Explosive Incendiary Tracer Projectile is similar in design to the High Explosive
Incendiary, but has either an external or internal tracer incorporated which enables the
gunner to follow the trajectory of the projectile to the target. Those projectiles with
integral tracers will have less explosive than the standard HEI projectiles of that caliber.
Like the HE-I the fuze is of the impact type with a self-destruct incorporated. Some old
design projectiles had a tracer igniter, which had a detonator, which was ignited by the
tracer when it had completely burnt through. The detonator then caused the High
Explosive incendiary filling to detonate. The HEI-T will often be missed with HEI
projectiles in ammunition belts.
HE Frag-T (High Explosive Fragmentation tracer)

This projectile is mainly designed for use against ground targets, the only models
currently in use being a 30mm caliber for use in the cannon on the BMP-2 APC and the
37mm caliber for use in the M1938 Anti aircraft gun. The 30mm variant has a thick body
and a long burning tracer which takes up half the internal cavity. The 37mm variant has a
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part internal part external tracer. The fuze, on both models, is of the impact type but also
incorporates a self destruct mechanism.
AP-T (Armour Piercing Tracer)

It would be more accurate to call this projectile an APC-T (Armour Piercing Capped
Tracer) as it is normally fitted with a ballistic cap. This projectile is an Armour Piercing
Shot (i.e. it has a solid steel body with no explosive filling except for the pyrotechnic
tracer filling). This projectile is designed to engage armoured targets and may be used
against APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) such as the BMP or light tanks such as the
PT-76.
API-T. (Armour Piercing Incendiary Tracer)

This projectile is very similar in construction to the AP-T, but has some incendiary filling in
the cavity inside the ballistic cap, to enhance its destructive effects once it has
penetrated the armour and to ignite any inflammable material.
APHC-T (Armour Piercing Hard Core Tracer).

This is an armour piercing shot which incorporates a hard central core of Tungsten
Carbide, which is normally the part of the projectile which penetrates any hard
targets.The projectile incorporates a tracer in the base.
APHE (Armour Piercing High Explosive).

This is similar in appearance to the AP-T projectile, but has a cavity in the base of the
steel body which is filled with High Explosive or High Explosive Incendiary Mix and an
inertia impact base fuze. (The base fuze will often incorporate a self destruct
mechanism)The APHE is sometimes termed an SAP (Semi Armour Piercing) in western
terminology and an APE (Armour Piercing Explosive) in Soviet terminology.The APHE
once fired, is easy to differentiate from the AP-T or API-T shot as it has a fuze at the
base, whilst the AP-T (or API-T) has a cavity containing tracer composition.
APHE-T (Armour Piercing High Explosive Tracer).

This is basically the same as the APHE but incorporates a tracer attached to the
fuze.The tracer is normally external rather than internal. The APHE-T is often mixed in
ammunition belts with the APHE rounds.
23 MM SHELL
The following are the most commonly encountered types of this ammunition:
High-Explosive Incendiary (HE-I). This round is also known as High-Explosive
Fragmentation Incendiary (HEFI) ignited by a Point-Detonating (PD) nose fuse.
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High-Explosive Incendiary Tracer (HE-I-T)
It is as the HEI but with a tracer.
Armour-Piercing Incendiary Tracer (AP-I-T)

This round has a solid-steel projectile body with a steel ballistic cap and a tracer
assembly in the base.
Target-Practice Tracer (TP-T)
This round is as the HEI-T, except that the projectile is filled with an inert mixture.
Subcalibre AP-T (APDS-T)
intended for use with a subcalibre barrel insert for low-cost gunnery training, this round
closely resembles the API-T, but it has a silver tip painted on the nose
Blank
This cartridge consists of the steel case only, with the mouth crimped over.
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30mm Frag VOG-17M
The VMG is a setback-armed, impact-fired, point-detonating fuze.

The VMG-M is a setback- and centrifugally armed, impact- or impact-inertia-fired, graze
sensitive, point-detonating, self-destroying fuze. Depending on the model cartridge used, the
upper body of the VMG-M fuze is chemically colored gold (VOG-17M cartridge) or blue.
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37 MM SHELL
The 37 mm automatic anti-aircraft gun rounds are now out of production but still in widespread
use, are as follows:
Frag-T, 53-UOR-167/ UOR-167N
Fragmentation Tracer round with a high-fragmentation forged-steel body and PointDetonating (PD) fuzes, with self-destruct devices. The High-Explosive (HE) filling is
between 35 and 40 g of A-IX-2 (RDX/aluminium).
AP-T, 53-UBR-167
Armour-Piercing Tracer (AP-T) round. The projectile has a solid heavy-steel body with
the blunt nose protected by a pressed-on light-steel windshield to preserve ballistic
properties.
Inert Training-Practice (TP) and Training-Practice Tracer (TP-T) rounds were produced to
match the above-mentioned rounds ballistically.
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40 MM GRENADE
WP, M8931
The projectile is filled with Red Phosphorus (RP) and a small bursting charge.
40 MM BOFORS SHELL
AP-T
The round does not carry explosive or a fuze. The penetrator is made from forged
hardened steel, with a nose cap The base of the penetrator is machined to accept a
tracer element.
APHC-T
The projectile consists of an aluminium-alloy body, a heavy metal sub calibre penetrator
and a ballistic cap. A tracer is contained in the projectile base. On impact, the aluminium
alloy creates an incendiary secondary effect. The heavy metal penetrator improve
armour-penetration.
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HE-T
The body is made of special high-fragmentation steel. He is filled with 92 g of hexotonal,
42 per cent TNT, 40 per cent RDX, 15 per cent aluminium powder and 3 per cent
desensitiser. The base of the projectile contains a tracer.
Point-Detonating fuzes and self-destructs (on some HE-T projectiles the end of the tracer
burn initiates the self-destruct process). The training equivalent is the Training-Practice
(TP) or Training-Practice Tracer (TP-T). It is fitted with an inert or dummy PD fuze.
PFHE
The projectile uses a curved base (`duck-tailed') shell body manufactured from special
high-fragmentation steel. The explosive content is 90 g of Octol. The shell interior walls
are lined with a total of 600 spherical tungsten-carbide pellets, each 3 mm in diameter.
The proximity fuze has a high-sensitivity electrical impact function and an electrical selfdestruct device.
The pellets are capable of inflicting great damage to aircraft and missile components at
ranges of up to several metres.
MPT
The MPT (multi purpose tracer) projectile uses a pyrotechnic ignition-train device in the
nose cap which is activated on firing and becomes fully sensitive during the projectile
trajectory. On impact with the target, the pyrotechnic element ignites with a delay of
approximately 0.3 s. He has a relatively large incendiary charge located in the nose cap
and the forward part of the shell body, while the high-explosive charge occupies the
remainder of the shell body towards the base. On impact, the high-explosive charge
provides a low-order detonation which breaks the shell body into relatively large
fragments that are then dispersed into the target within a narrow cone. A tracer element
is located in the projectile base initiating a self-destruct device via a sealed connector.
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57MM ROCKET
The are now rarely encountered in the airborne role, having been largely supplanted by the 80
mm rockets.Charge (HEAT) and HE warheads are available.
No information is available regarding the 57 mm S-5M1 solid-fuel rockets. In-flight stabilisation is
imparted by six folding fins.
HEAT S 5K with PIBD

fuze
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HEAT/FRAG S5 KPB
with PIBD fuze (piezo)
HEAT/FRAG S5 KO
with PIBD fuze
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57 MM SHELL
Frag-T, UOR-281 and UOR-281U

the explosive filling on both types of projectile is A-IX-2 (RDX/aluminium), with the OR-281
containing 168 g and the OR-281U containing 154 g. Both projectiles can use either an MG-57
or MGZ-57 Point-Detonating (PD) fuze. Both types of fuzes have a self-destruct mechanism and
a protruding tracer-element.
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73 MM ROCKET
PG9G HEAT
Piezo electric fuze: PIBD
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OG 9
Head
on
impact
Latera
l
impact
Point detonation and always fuze

Remark: No rocket motor, only one propelling charge
80MM ROCKET
HEAT S8 KO
With PIBD fuze
(piezo)
The 80 mm S-8M rockets are 1.57 m long and each weighs about 11.3 kg, of which 3.6 kg is the
warhead.
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The S-8 is a conventional 80 mm calibre unguided rocket with a solid-propellant motor and fitted
with six rectangular fins that open behind the motor nozzle.
The S-8 KO (HEAT) is an anti-tank/a rocket is 1.57 m long and contains 0.9 kg of explosive
charge.
The S-8B is classed as an anti-shelter demolition (penetration) rocket. It is 1.5 m long and
contains 0.6 kg of high explosive.
The S-8D is a Fuel-Air-Explosive (FAE) rocket and is 1.66 m long and has a composition
explosive charge of 2.15 kg.
The S-8 O is termed an illuminating rocket, and is 1.63 m long and contains 1 kg of compound
that gives out a light output of 2 million candle power.
The S-8T rocket is fitted with a tandem anti-tank warhead and the front of the rocket has a small
inserted section with a smaller diameter. The S-8T has a length of 1.7 m, and contains 1.6 kg of
HE
The S-8P rocket has a radar countermeasures warhead. The rocket is 1.63 m long
82 MM
Type 78 HEAT
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BK 881- 882 HEAT
Point initiation base detonating fuze.

O 881A FRAG
Point detonating fuze
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84 MM SHELL
Carl Gustaf ammunition is breech-loaded; a notch on the rim of the case ensures that the
round can be loaded only in such a way that the percussion cap ends up opposite the
firing pin.
The following types of round are available:
84 mm 441B HE
The projectile used with the 84 mm High-Explosive (HE) round has an unusual shape.
The fuze is a 447 combined Mechanical-Time (MT) and impact. The shell body is
designed so that the danger area for rearward travelling fragments is relatively small,
allowing the round to be used at combat ranges as close as 40 m. The 447 fuze uses a
clockwork mechanism. The fuze will function on impact down to impact angles of
approximately 5.
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84 mm 551 HEAT
The 551 HEAT round employs a rocket motor that cuts in after firing to provide a flat
trajectory and a reduced time of flight. Early versions of 84 mm HEAT rounds lacked the
rocket motor and can be readily recognised by the long standoff nose spike. The standoff
spike transmits the force to a piezoelectric generator connected by internal wires to a
detonator. The rocket motor burns for 1.5 seconds.
84 mm 751 HEAT
The 84 mm 751 HEAT round is a rocket-assisted tandem warhead projectile, intended to
defeat Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA). The round has a long conical nose to support
the standoff fuze and uses a tandem warhead. The first charge destroys the ERA to
enable the second shaped charge to penetrate up to 500 mm
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84 mm 502 HEDP
This is a dual-purpose round with the Instant or Delayed mode selected by the
orientation of the cartridge case with the firing mechanism. Markings on the base (I and
D) signify the correct alignment.
The integral fuze system is a combination piezoelectric impact or pyrotechnic delay
arrangement.
84 mm 469B smoke
The round is filled with a smoke composition consisting of titanium tetrachloride adsorbed
by pulverous synthetic hydrous calcium silicate; the composition is non-toxic. Fitted with
an impact and graze fuse. On impact, the fuse will function to ignite a centrally located
buster charge.
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84 mm 545 illuminating
Fitted with a pyrotechnic time fuse including graduations. The fuse ignites a small
expulsion charge which creates an internal overpressure which ejects the canister and
ignites the illuminating composition.
84 mm 141 and 551 TP-T
Target-Practice Tracer (TP-T) contains no fuse, booster or bursting charge. The
propellant charge and the rocket motor provide the same ballistic performance as the
551 HEAT round.
85 MM SHELL
BK-2M HEAT-FS
The steel body contains 920 to 970 g of A-IX-1 (RDX/wax). Point-Initiating BaseDetonating (PIBD) GPV-2 fuze element is used to initiate the main charge. The base
carries six forward-folding fins. Number 9 tracer-element housing is located in the base of
the tubular boom.
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O 365
0 365
0365 K
0365 M
Time fuze (AA)
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100 MM MISSILE
9M 117 M (AT 10 BASTION)
Guided missile fired from tank (T55) gun barrel. 3UBK10M-1 round with 9M 117 M
guided missile
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106MM SHELL
M 344 HEAT
The HEAT M344A1 projectile has a shaped charge with 1.265 kg of Composition B. The
projectile carries a threaded conical cap with a piezoelectric element connected by a wire
to initiate Point-Initiating Base-Detonating (PIBD) fuze in the base. On impact with a
target, the piezoelectric element generates an electrical charge to initiate the PIBD fuze
and detonate the projectile charge
M346A1 HEP-T
The HEP-T (High-Explosive Plastic Tracer) projectile is a short curved ogive and a flat
base. The base is fitted with a Base-Detonating (BD) and an integral tracer. The shell
filling is 3.5 kg of Composition A-3 (RDX/wax 91/9). As the projectile impacts with a
target, the explosive filling spread in a `plaster' over the target surface before the
delayed-action BD fuze functions. The resultant pressure and detonation waves are then
transmitted through the target armour to create internal spalling and other destructive
effects.
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107MM ROCKET
Type 63 rockets, are spin-stabilised by seven venturis in the base.
They were originally manufactured in two main versions: High-Explosive (HE) and
incendiary. Point-Detonating (PD) fuze (modified version of the Russian V-25), which has
optional graze and delayed-action functions; proximity fuzes may also be employed.
The 107 mm Type 63-I incendiary rocket contains a flammable material of an incendiary
agent plus White Phosphorus (WP) in its warhead.
A 107 mm Type 63 HE incendiary rocket contains incendiary pellets which are spread
over a casualty radius of 21 m on detonation.
One of the latest Norinco 107 mm rocket is a cargo round. The contents are 16 Type 81
dual-purpose bomblets,
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122 MM
HESH-T
The 122 mm M69 HESH-T shell is long and streamlined and the base contains a BaseDetonating (BD) fuze and a tracer element.
The projectile contains 3.84 kg of RDX. On impact with a target the explosive filling
spread over the surface of the target material.
The inertia-action base fuze then functions to ignite the explosive and create
WP D 462
The 122 mm D-462 smoke is a separate-loading round. It contains 3.6 kg of White
Phosphorus (WP). A burster charge contains 160 g of TNT.
When the point detonating KTM-2 fuze functions, the burster charge detonates to break
open the shell body and scatter the contents.
As the White Phosphorus contents come into contact with the air they start to produce a
grey/white smoke cloud.
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122mm ROCKET
The base model is the 9M22, a HE frag fin-stabilised rocket electrically ignited containing
6.4 kg of High Explosive detonated by a Point-Detonating (PD) fuze.
Other types of warhead can be installed including chemical (VX or GB nerve agent - see
under Equivalent projectiles, HE-Incendiary and Smoke). The basic 9M22 are 2.87 m
long.
When detonated, the warhead creates approximately 3,150 fragments that are scattered
over a lethal radius of about 28 m.
The 122 mm rocket types include cargo projectiles carrying three PGMDM anti-tank
mines or five POM-2S anti-personnel mines.
Each is 3.019 m long.
Also available is a 9M43 smoke rocket containing five smoke canisters.
the following summary outlines the main types:
HE frag, smoke; illumination, anti-tank mine, anti-personnel mine.
Authorised fuzes
PD - 9A210, MRV, MRV-U, Junghans PD 111R or equivalents
Proximity (Prox) - Fuchs BM21, Fuchs BM36
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MISSILES
SA 2 GUIDELINE ( S75-VOLGA)
FIM 43 REDEYE
This is an infrared-homing, surface-to-air guided missile. It has a blast warhead and a
penetration impulse generator (P.I.G.) fuze. The fuzing also includes an impact switch and a
self-destruct feature. The fuze, in the rear of the warhead section, is designed to activate the
rocket motor and to arm and detonate the warhead. It contains the P.I.G. which consists of a coil
of wire wrapped around a magnet. A firing capacitor, an impact switch, and a self-destruct
switch complete the main elements of the fuze
SA 7 GRAIL
SA-7 `Grail' is missile, with two small rectangular moving control fins at the nose and four swept
rectangular wings trailing from the tail. The missile is 1.42 m long; a diameter of 72 mm.
Guidance is by IR seeker.
SA 7a: 1.2 kg HE fragmentation and impact fuze or SD
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SA 7b: 1.8 kg HE fragmentation and impact fuze or SD
AA 2 ATOLL
This missile closely resembled the AIM-9B US missile. The R-3S had a fixed tail, but the four
triangular forward fins were articulated. It was a first generation IR-guided missile.
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EOD HAZARDS AND PROTECTION

Battlefields are littered with UXO hazards. These hazards are either ordnance that failed to
function or ordnance designed to be used as area denial, such as landmines.
Munitions are available in a wide range of weapons systems, including artillery, missiles,
rockets, and bombs. The continuing development of technology has led to increased numbers
of UXO and a greater variety of fuzing systems.
Most Important Hazards.
The TL/EOD team has to realise the possible dangers when working with UXOs and must always
analyse every step of the possible effects of his action. Take time to do so, it can save (your) lives.
The following paragraphs highlights the most important dangers followed by possible
ways to protect operators against them.
a.
HE (High Explosives)
High Explosives produce heat, light, sound and pressure (shockwave and blast) that
can damage personnel, live stock, surrounding infrastructure and vehicles. Blast will
accelerate surrounding sand, stones and other materials.
b.
Ensure enough safety distance between the point of detonation and

personnel and venerable infrastructure.
Use shielding (protective measures) when possible / when required.
Fragments
Parts/fragments of the casing, that are produced during detonation or deflagration,
can be projected with speeds up to 2000 m/sec (7.200 km/hr!!).
Structures close to the UXO, but not in direct contact with it, may also produce
fragments. These type of fragments are called "secondary fragments".
Ensure enough safety distance from the UXO.
Use available natural cover.
Apply shielding to UXO.
When possible cover the UXO when destroying (No mines!).
When the UXO is buried 10x his calibre, the safety distance comparing with
demolition on surface, will be reduced till approximately 1/3 .
c.
WP (White Phosphorus)
WP will start to burn if exposed to air. In order to stop it burning, keep WP
submerged in water.
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When destroying WP-filled ammunition, WP can be thrown out of the demolition pit.
WP covered by soil will ignite again if exposed to air. WP and his smoke is
poisonous for human beings and animals.
Check the demolition spot carefully
Whenever possible, do not bury WP ammunition during disposal.
Always carry Copper sulphate Compresses and water in the first aid kit
when dealing with WP ammunition.
The following first aid measures are to be given in the event of any person being
burned by White Phosphorous:
Immediately immerse the burn in water, or pour liberal quantities of water

over the wound.
Make an attempt to remove phosphorous particles with a stick or medical

forceps while the phosphorous is under water. Do not use fingers or
unprotected skin to carry out this operation.
Apply a large wet dressing and ensure it is kept wet or burning will
recommence.
In the event of phosphorous being splashed in the eye of a person, copious

amounts of water are to be used to wash the eye and a wet dressing, in the
form of a pad is to be applied. This dressing is to be kept wet by pouring
water onto it; it is not to be removed or renewed or allowed to dry, as this will
cause burning to recommence.
d.
The injured person is to be taken immediately to the nearest medical facility.
Movement.
A not wanted disturbance of the UXO that may cause the UXO to function.
Minimise all disturbance of the UXO.
Decide if the UXO has to be moved.
Consider movement by hand or by car.
When the UXO has to be moved, use a pulling rope at a safe distance, to
initially move the UXO, evacuate the area as required or apply the
appropriate protection.
After pulling stay in cover for at least 30 sec.
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e.
Pizo Element.
A crystalline material that, when stressed, produces electricity that can function an
electric detonator.
If you are not sure, assume that every UXO has a pizo element;
Keep the temperature of the pizo element as constant as possible;
Do not stress the pizo element, nor cause a sudden relaxation of the
element.
f.
Explosive Jet.
Supersonic stream of hot gasses and fluid metal in the centre line of a detonating
shaped charge.
Do not stand in front of a shaped charge.
When destroying a shaped charge, point the jet in safe direction.
Place the demolition charge in such way, that the shape charge coin will be
destroyed.
g.
Booby trap.
A device that is meant to kill or wound someone, when a harmless looking item is
moved or a presumed safe action is carried out.
h.
Till proven otherwise, suspect all UXOs are booby trapped;
Suspect all items in unlikely places;
Be aware there may be numerous booby traps on any item;
When leaving the site of the UXO, use the same route as when you came in.
Spring Loaded.
A striker or other part of a fuze that is under pressure of a spring and, at the moment
the spring can unstress itself, will detonate the item.
Do not disturb the UXO;
When the UXO must be moved, use a pulling rope at a safe distance and
with appropriate safety measures.
i.
Time.
Time must be considered when dealing with burning pyrotechnics, discharging
condensators and for time delays to expire.
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After impact or disturbance with unknown fuzes, wait 30 minutes before

approaching if possible.
After impact or disturbance with guided missiles wait 3 hours before

After a not successful ignition of pyrotechnics, wait 30 minutes before

j.
Static Electricity.
Electricity that is produced when certain materials are rubbed along each other is
static electricity. This can cause Electro-explosive devices to function through a
discharge of this static electricity. The following precautions are to be taken:
Be aware of any electrical sources (radar, radio transmitters, thunder, static

electricity, and batteries).
Do not wear clothing that produces static electricity, e.g. nylon or silk.
Operators are to ground themselves before touching a UXO with electric

parts in it, by placing the palms of the hands on the ground, as close as
possible to the UXO for a ten second count.
k.
Electro Magnetic Radiation (EMR).

Electro magnetic energy produced by electric current that flows through wires, radio
waves, radar etc. can cause Electro-Explosive Devices (EED) to function. The
following precautions are to be taken:
Be aware of any electrical sources (radar, radio transmitters, thunder &

lightning, static electricity, and batteries).
Keep all EEDs and exposed wires a safe distance away from transmitters
etc. (refer to the demolitions SOP for specific distances).
l.
Shield blank wires and EEDs from radiation, by a metal cover if possible.
Rocket motor.
During disposal of unfired rockets it is imperative that the motor does not function.
The following precautions are to be taken:
Place detonating charges along the entire length of the unfired rocket
motors.
Approach unfired rocket or blind (dud) fired rocket from the side.
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m.
Soak-Time.
The time the UXO specialist has to wait before approaching a charge that did not
function. The following precautions are to be taken:
With electric detonators wait for 10 minutes.
With blasting caps or non-electric detonators wait for 30 minutes.
When an UXO burns, wait at a safe distance until 30 minutes after the fire is
out.
n.
Fire or Pyrotechnics
These have been known to be the most dangerous types of UXOs.
Fireworks are extremely sensitive and may be chemical similar to photoflash
powder.
0.
Fireworks should be desensitized by spraying or soaking them with oil,

diesel fuel, hydraulic fluid, or other nonvolatile lubricants.
Transport desensitized items in plastic bags, preferably 6 mils thick.
If large quantities are to be transported, the bags of desensitized fireworks

should be placed in sturdy cardboard boxes or suitable substitutes. This
will prevent the items from bearing the weight of others and reduce the
hazard of friction caused by load shifting.
Destroy by detonation immediately.
Magnetic Influence
If magnetic influence is suspected all ferrous material must be removed from your
person and your tools.
p.
Do not move metal or ferrous material located near the ordnance.
Do not move the ordnance.
Do not turn power lines, motors, or generators on or off in the area.
Maintain maximum distance from magnetic sensors.
Make slow deliberate movements near the ordnance.
Approach only close enough to place a demo charge and blow in place.
Acoustic and Seismic Influence

Some UXOs may have the ability to listen for its target and detonate.
Some UXOs may have the ability to sense the vibration of the ground.
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Do not operate vehicles in the immediate vicinity of the suspected

ordnance.
Do not wear or carry loose equipment which may rattle, flap or otherwise
cause noise.
Move with slow deliberate motions, avoid abrupt moves.
Permit no metal to metal contact, scraping, or scatching on the ordnance

or in the immediate area.
Use some form of cushioning, such as rubber or similar material, between

tools or explosive charges and the ordnance.
Avoid imparting vibration into the ordnance or surrounding area.
Refrain from throat clearing, coughing and vocal emissions.
Do not talk or create noise within 23 meters of the ordnance. Within 9

meters of the ordnance restrict necessary noise or vibration to a period of
1 second duration followed by a minimum period of 3 seconds of silence.
q.
Blow the item in place.
Chemical-if applicable
Observe the UXO or UXB for signs f dead grass or animals. If there are no
reports of Chemical ordnance being used during the war, some ordnance does
contain toxic fillers and propellants.
Evacuate and isolate the downwind rea for 2000m.
Approach a chemical UXO from an pwind direction while wearing rotective

clothing and equipment.
Check the area and the item for agent leakage using a chemical agent
etector kit. If chemical leakage is found all unprotected personnel should
be kept at a distance of 2000m during the operation.
Avoid skin contact with caustic solutions. They will cause serious burns
on contact.
Have first aid equipment available for toxic chemical agent.
An advanced UXO specialist team will have to be called.
r. Proximity Fuzing
Observe a 1 hr wait time before approaching the UXO.
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s. Clockwork Fuzing
Do not disturb the UXO with this type of fuze. Movement may cause
the clock to start or may release the hung firing pin, causing the UXO to
function.
Safety Guidelines.
Do not approach a suspected UXO.
Some UXOs contain motion-sensitive fusing or magnetic sensors and will not detonate
until they sense a target. Other UXOs may have a self-destruct timer feature.
Make any radio transmissions at least 15 meters away from a UXO.
Do not remove any part of a UXO or anything near a UXO. You could arm or function the
UXO.
Do not move or disturb a UXO.
If possible, mark the area and keep other people away.
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IDENTIFICATION OF UXO,S
In order for you to determine exactly what you are dealing with you as an EOD operator must
know how to distinguish between the different types of ordnance groups. For that reason it is
necessary to look at the general characteristics of UXOS for identification purposes.
The general characteristics associated with the different types of ordnance will be dealt with so
you will have a basic knowledge of what piece of ordnance that you may be dealing with ie be it
a either a bomb, mortar, or rocket etc
DROPPED MUNITIONS
In general dropped munitions refers to the action of dropping from an aircraft. They could be
categorized, though not limited to ,
general purpose bombs,
fragmentation bombs and
sub-munitions.
Components. In general, bombs from all countries are similar in construction and weigh
between 100-10,000 pounds. The components of a complete bomb are:
a.
Bomb Body The bomb body is a metal container that holds an explosive,
chemical, nuclear, or inert filler. The case of the body may consist of one piece or
of several pieces welded together or otherwise joined materials;
b.
Fin Assembly Generally there are three basic types of fin assemblies: box,
conical or streamlined, and retarding. In the case of a guided bomb, the tail cone
may have movable fins. Each type of fin assembly serves a purpose. The fin
assembly is usually known as the after section;
c.
Fuses The fuse or fuses that cause the bomb to function can be:
mechanical,
electrical or
chemical,
and can be located in the nose or the base of the bomb, or both. In the case of a
smart bomb, the nose will normally have a guidance system;
d.
Arming Vanes Assembly Arming vanes generally are attached to the nose and
tail fuses. They are a propeller type sheet metal attached to a mechanical fuse.
Arming vanes have different pitches, shapes and length of blades;
e.
Arming Wire Assembly Arming wire assemblies generally consist of one or

two strands of wire and are attached to a swivel loop. The arming wire assembly
usually threads through the bomb suspension lugs and will lock the arming vane
assembly, keeping it from moving in flight; and
f.
Fillers In general a dropped munitions could contain explosives, toxic

chemicals, sub-munitions or even an inert filler. As an example, a general
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purpose bomb will be filled with explosive which will comprise about 50% of the
weight of the bomb.
PROJECTED MUNITIONS
Projected munitions which includes artillery, mortar and rockets - in general, anything that is
launched or projected. The following categories cover projected munitions:
a.
b.
Artillery Artillery projectiles are normally classed as ammunition used in

weapons with a caliber greater than 40mm. In general, artillery projectiles are
comprised of:
Shape The shape can be generally described as a steel container having a

cylindrical body or a pointed nose;
Stabilization Some projectiles have one or more rotating bands that, when
fired, will impart spin on the projectile when engaged in the rifling of the barrel
of the weapon. Some HEAT projectiles have a movable rotating band that
spins around the projectile disallowing it to spin as this could defeat the
shaped charge. Some projectiles have fins which can be fixed or folding to
stabilize it in flight;
Size The size of a projectile can range from 40 to 280mm in diameter and
be 2 to 11 times the diameter in length;
Fusing characteristics The fuse mechanism can be fitted into the

projectiles nose, base or both. The projectile may employ impact, proximity,
time or short delay fuses or a combination of these characteristics. Fin
stabilized projectiles must be assumed to have piezo electric fusing; and
Fillers as with bombs, projectiles can be filled or partially filled with

explosives, chemical, nuclear, sub-munitions or even solid metal.
Mortar Projectiles are normally muzzle loaded and are used primarily for high
angle fire. Mortar projectiles are comprised of:
Shape Most mortar projectiles are constructed of thin walled tubing and are
cylindrical in shape with a long tapered base and a short ogival nose. They
may also be egg or tear drop shaped;
Stabilization Mortar projectiles in flight can be stabilized by spin or by

using fins.On a spin stabilized projectile there will be a rotating disc near the
base that imparts spin on the projectile in much the same way as an artillery
projectile. A fin stabilized projectile is fired from a smooth bore mortar tube
and uses the fins to stabilize the projectile in flight;
Size Mortar projectiles range in size from 45 380mm in diameter;
Fusing Fusing will be similar if not the same as an artillery projectile; and
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c.
Filler Mortar projectiles can be solid metal, filled or partially filled with
explosives, chemical, incendiary, illuminating or sub-munitions.
Rockets Are projectiles that consist of a warhead, fuse and a fin assembly and
are projected by a reaction motor. The rocket motor is usually self-contained and
will consist of propellant and igniter and a nozzle or nozzles. This projectile is
launched when the propellant is ignited and the resultant gas pressure escapes
through the nozzles(s). A rocket projectile will usually consist of the following:
Shape there is no standard shape for a rocket. There will normally be a

warhead in the front with a fuse located at the nose or at the base of the
warhead, and a rocket motor behind the warhead with a fin assembly at the
end of the rocket motor;
Fin assembly The rocket can have a fixed fin assembly. The type of fins will
vary according to the method of launch and or purpose of the rocket;
Size The rocket can vary in size from warhead to the rocket motor but
generally will range from 2.5 86 cm in diameter;
Fusing Rocket warheads can have a fuse in the nose or at the base, or
both. The fuse can function on delay, point detonating, base detonating,
proximity or a combination of these types; and
Filler The main filler can be HE, sub-munitions, nuclear or chemical. The
warhead could be a shaped charge for anti-armour (HEAT).
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UXO IDENTIFICATION AND DISPOSAL

The EOD operator tmust know the proper procedure to safely Identify and report any
Unexploded Ordnance (UXO). This will enable him to safely report and identify UXOs located in
the mined areas he may be working in, and report them so they can be destroyed.
After any conflict there will be a large amount of UXOs and ERW left in the battle areas.
Between 10% and 20% of these items will not have exploded due to a malfunction or the design
of the ordnance.
NOTE:
All UXOs are to be considered live.

They are not to be touched or moved.
From the safest possible distance and from under cover if possible, the UXO specialist should
note the following:
Identifying Uxos, Uxbs
a.
Size
length, width and diameter in mm or meters;
b.
Shape -
tear drop, cigar shape, pop can, dinner plate etc;
c.
Colour -
of the main body part;
d.
Markings -
any writing, bands or diagrams;
e.
Fuzings -
fuzed in the tail, nose or both, is it transversally fuzed. Colour and

shape of fuze; and
f.
Assemblies - are there tail fins, drag chutes, arming vanes or glass eyes.
All the above mentioned features will help to identify the UXO so the item can be Render
Safed (RSP) or destroyed.
Reporting Procedures:
Once the UXO has been identified it must be reported to the UXO team and to the higher
command. This reporting must be done as accurately as possible,so as to facilitate the safe RSP
of the item(s) located. Some of the things that must be reported are as follows:
a.
Date of report;
b.
Map sheet number and Grid reference of UXO or UXB;
c.
Tasking number;
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d.
Name of town or village near by;
e.
Number of items found;
f.
How is the item marked;
g.
Land mark used if necessary;
h.
UXO team number;
i.
C/S or phone number of team;
j.
Rendezvous location to meet the reporter.
k.
Name of regional supervisor; and
l.
Has the higher command been notified.
Along with the report the person who located the UXO, UXB should also include in his report the
following:
a.
b.
Diagram of the item(s) found to include:

i.
shape;
ii.
size;
iii.
colour;
iv.
markings;
v.
fuzings; and
vi.
accessories.
Diagram of the fuzing system if seen.
If the report is done properly then there should be very little uncertaincies/problem when it is
time for the EOD team to rnder safe the the item(s). Failure to properly initiate and complete this
report means, the possibility of wrong equipment or a wrong RSP being chosen by the UXO
team.
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DESTRUCTION OF UXOS & UXBS

The need may arise for you as a deminer to destroy a located UXO, UXB found in you area. The
deminer must NEVER MOVE OR DISTURB THE UXO. In order to safely destroy a UXO the deminer must adhere to the following rules:
a.
All UXOs and UXBs are to be treated as live;
b.
Destroy all UXO and UXBs in place, do not touch or move unless absolutely
necessary to do so . When moving the items use the pulling technique, but do
not move the item towards your position.
c.
Observe the UXO or UXB for signs of dead grass or animals. Although there are
no reports of Chemical ordnance being used during the war, some ordnance do
contain toxic fillers and propellents;
d.
Expose the minimum number of people to the UXO . The Rule is One UXO, One
De-Miner;
e.
Keep all personnel upwind when destroying suspected chemical UXOs;
f.
Charges should be made up in advance so that they can be carried to the UXOs
place and lit, spending the minimum time at the UXO;
g.
Charges should be placed as close to the item as possible without touching or

disturbing it;
h.
UXOs found in built up areas should be destroyed in place, taking all necessary
precautions to limit damage to property. If this cannot be achieved, the mark the
item and cordon off the area and report to higher authorities;
i.
For submerged UXOs; mark, cordon and report to a higher authority;
j.
Approach rockets and missiles from upwind due to toxic propellents. Also be
aware of the possibility of a Glass Eye in missiles used in their tracking/targeting
systems;
k.
Safety distances depend on the Net Explosive Weight of all explosives used and
the potential danger zone caused by the fragmentation; and
l.
All UXO or UXB disposal charges will be fired nonelectrically, and misfire drills will
be as for by normal demolition practices.
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DISPOSAL BY DETONATION:
1.
2.
The demolition charge should accomplish the complete destruction of the UXO. The
explosives contained in the UXO should be utilized to ensure complete destruction of the
item. To accomplish this the charge is placed as close to with out touching the item as
possible in the critical area of the UXO. These critical areas are as follows:
a.
The Initiation system (Fuze);
b.
The Explosive contents;
c.
The propulsion system (rockets and missiles).
By using the explosive filling of the UXO it reduces the amount of explosives required to
be placed against the item to ensure its total destruction. The number of explosive blocks
or sticks required for destruction with depend on the length of the UXO to be destroyed.
a.
Hand Grenades requires 1/2 of a block of C4;
b.
A 155mm projectile requires 2 blocks of C4.
3.
The nonelectric initiation set will be made using a minimum of 1m time fuze.
4.
A UXO requiring more than one block of C4 will be connected together by the
sensitized detonating cord to ensure simultaneous detonation.
PROCEDURE
The procedure for the destruction of UXOs will be as follows:
a.
All demolitions will be prepared in a safe area;
b.
Prepare the charge by shaping or moulding the charge if required, then inserting the
sensitized detonating cord so that the crimped end of the blasting cap is still visible;
c.
The charge is placed as close to but without touching or disturbing the item in any way;
d.
Safety fuze will be laid out straight and a small piece of wood or sod will be placed on top
of the fuze to stop it coiling up on itself once its been it; and
e.
Once satisfied the fuze is burning, walk to the safe area.

Hints
i.
curve the charge slightly to follow contour of the item;
ii..
place as close to without touching the item; COUNTER CHARGE THE MAIN
CHARGE (CCMC);
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iii.
White Phosphorous or Plastic White Phosphorous will EAR MUFFED, a charge

placed on either side of the item.
iv.
The following procedures will be used for High Explosive Anti Tank Rounds
(HEAT) which contain a shaped charge:
v..
Curve the charge slightly to match the item;
Place explosives along the side of the cone section, COUNTER CHARGE
THE CONE (CCC);
ENSURE THAT THE JET AND SLUG ARE POINTED CLEAR OF THE
SAFE AREA OR ANY OTHER HAZARDS OR INHABITED
AREAS.
For missiles and rockets the following will done:
Overlap the charges in order to cover both the main charge and the rocket
motor (COUNTER CHARGE THE MOTOR CCM);
Again ensure the item is not pointed at the safe or any inhabited areas.
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CHARACTERISTIC AND IDENTIFICATION OF FUSES
Definition:
A fuse, is a device which is used to initiate a projectile at the correct time and place.
Identifying Fuzes
a.
Size
length, width and diameter in mm or meters;
b.
Shape -
Triangular, cylindrical etc;
c.
Color -
of the fuse
d.
Markings -
any writing, bands or diagrams;
e.
Fusing -
fused in the tail, nose or both, is it transversally fused. Color and

shape of fuse;
f.
Assemblies - are there pins, timing marks, screws timing slots, etc.
General:
According to their position on the projectile, fuzes are classified as
base detonating (BD),
point initiating base detonating (PIBD),
point detonating (PD), and
concrete piercing (CP).
According to their method of functioning, fuzes are also classified as

1.
Impact - according to type of action, are classified as

superquick,
delay and
non-delay
2.
Time. Time fuze functions while a projectile, to which the fuze is assembled, is still
in flight. Certain time fuzes are also provided with an impact element.
Time (air burst) fuzes are of three types:
mechanical time,
powder-train time,
proximity, or
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a combination of these.
3.
Powder train time fuzes differ from mechanical time fuzes essentially in that the
former uses a compressed black powder train to delay functioning for a pre-set
length of time, whereas the mechanical-time fuze uses a clockwork mechanism to
achieve the same result.
4.
Proximity fuzes are radioactuated point fuzes, which function, either after a pre-set
arming time, or without setting or adjustment, on approach to a target.
MAIN TYPES:

Base detonating fuze
Mechanical Time
Proximity fuze
Time and combustion fuze
Point detonating fuzes:
Point detonating fuzes (or percussion fuzes) operate, after firing, on impact with the
target or the ground in the target area.
PD fuzes can be equipped with a short delay (less than 0.1 sec), to allow the projectile
to penetrate the target.
Base detonating fuzes:
Base fuzes are classed under the percussion type of fuze.
They operate with a detonator placed in an inertia pellet, which is riding forward onto a
fixed needle (or vice versa) when the projectile hits the target. A delay may be
incorporated
These fuzes are designed to fit in the tail end of a projectile. They are used when it is
impractical or not possible to use a nose fuze.
Mechanical Time:
Time fuzes are capable of operating at predetermined times, the time can be set on the
fuze by hand or automatically before loading into the weapon.
The fuze will operate, during the flight of the projectile after the predetermined time. Time
fuzes are for example used on illuminating, smoke or carrier projectiles.
Proximity Fuzes:
Proximity or variable time(VT) fuzes are operated by the reflection of radio waves from
the target.
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These waves are transmitted from the fuze and reflected waves from the target interfere
with the direct waves to give a beat, which is utilised to trigger the firing mechanism of
the fuze.
Time and Combustion Fuzes:
Time and combustion fuzes are a combination of a point detonating and time fuzes.
They are used when the projectile has to function either when it is still in flight, or when it
hits something before it reaches the end of its trajectory, e.g. with HE anti-aircraft
ammunition.
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WORKING PRINCIPLES: FUSES
Creep spring
The firing pin of the fuze is kept away from the detonator by means of a creep
spring.
Shear wire:
The firing pin of the fuze is kept away from the detonator by means of a shear wire.
Spring loaded:
The firing pin is under spring pressure and is kept away from the detonator by
means of an arming device.
Always:
The firing pin of the fuze is kept away from the detonator by means of a creep
spring. At impact, detonator and firing pin will move towards each other.
Compression Heat:
There is no firing pin. Compressed air is heated and sets off a heat sensitive
detonator.
Pyrotechnic time:
A pyrotechnic delay sets off the detonator after a certain time.
Mechanical time:
A clockwork mechanism frees a spring-loaded firing pin that sets off the detonator.
Radio wave:
A radio wave that travels a certain time from the fuze to the target and back sets off
the detonator.
Arming Forces - Fuses

The ultimate object of the mechanical devices is to ensure that the detonator is struck at the
desired instant.
Premature action is prevented by various forms of holding and locking devices, and as a
further safety measure, masking devices can be incorporated to block the detonating train to
an HE bursting charge.
A fuse is said to be armed, when it is in such a condition that there is nothing to prevent
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initiation of the bursting charge. Although freedom from premature action is essential for
both safety and operational reasons and embraces handling, loading and projection until
well clear of the muzzle, the projectile must be fully armed on approaching the target.
The movement of the free components, controlled or restrained as necessary by friction
and/or springs, depends principally upon the forces arising from acceleration, deceleration
and spin.
Set back (acceleration)
Creep forward (deceleration)
Rotation (spin)
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STANDING OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES FOR EOD
Before leaving to the incident site
1.
2.
The following are key questions that should be asked by the EOD.
Where is the item? (exact location, coordinates, sketch)
What type of item is it? (mortar, grenade, etc.)
When was it found?
Who found it? (make sure to get a name and point of contact)
Have the person do an initial evacuation if possible (300 meters minimum)
Have the person mark the item with something identifiable from a distance.
Once this information has been gathered the EOD needs to make sure that the following
tasks have been performed.
Have the proper tools been loaded in the vehicle? (these should be inventoried
periodically to ensure completeness)
Are the proper explosives on hand?
Have the local authorities been notified? (police, civil defense, fire department,
and medical personnel in the event an injury)
Start a written record. (This should include all pertinent information, i.e. time,
place, ordnance item, etc.) This needs to be done so that in the event of an
accident, the procedures can be reviewed to prevent any future casualties)
Always be prepared to have to construct protective works. Make sure that the
proper materials are available.
Arrival at the incident site
1.
Once at the site, the following areas of questioning should be approached.
Set up a command post outside of the danger area and.
Show the person who saw the item your identification book or ask if he can draw
a picture.
Ask if there are any mines in the area?
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Ask the person who saw the item to take you along the same path that he took
previously to the munition.
Observe all safety precautions until they can be eliminated by positive

identification.
2.
Prepare to do reconnaissance.
Reconnaissance
It is very important to take note of everything when doing a proper reconnaissance, not just the
munition, but also the surrounding area.
Always enter and leave by the same path.
Spend as little time as possible near the item.
Record all pertinent information about the item, this includes taking a picture with a
reference object beside or drawing a picture of the munition, GPS position,
measurements on all dimensions including dimensions of the fuze. Take note of any
external markings and colors. Count fins and any external fittings
Are there any secondary hazards? (Gas lines, petrol storage tanks, hazardous
materials, etc.)
Evaluation
Through this process it will be decided whether to move the item or blow it in situ. There are
many factors that need to be considered during the evaluation process.
i.
Positively identify the item. This is very important. Once this is done, get the total
explosive weight of the item and designate the danger area for that weight. Remember, if
in doubt it is always better to be too safe than not safe enough!
ii.
Can the item be moved? If it can be moved, then carefully move it to a safe disposal area
and destroy it. If it cannot be moved, then it will have to be dealt with where it is.
iii.
Is it possible to make a high order detonation? If it is, then blowing in situ is a good
option. If it isnt, protective works may have to be constructed and low order have to be
prefer.
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iv.
If the item is to be blown in place, the local authorities must be notified. They should
already be aware of the situation and a representative should be present.
v.
If the item can be transported, designate a route to a safe disposal area and transport
the item there. It can then be disposed of safely with no risk to the population.
vi.
In the event that the item cannot be positively identified, mark the item in a way that it
can be seen clearly from a distance and record its exact location.
Disposal
Disposal of the UXO is the final phase of the EOD problem.
Page 54 of 61
MARKING ABBREVIATIONS
Each country has a system for marking projectiles for identification. Some systems are uniform:
others are not. Projectiles designed, developed, and manufactured by the major foreign
countries with the exceptions of PRC, North Korea, and North Vietnam, are well marked for
identification. These countries often use coding that hinders identification of the country of origin.
The designators HEP and HESH, shown below, are the same but are labelled differently by the
United States and United Kingdom, respectively.
Projectile types
Abbreviation Type of projectile
AP
armour piercing
APERS
antipersonnel
APC
armour piercing capped
APC-T
armour piercing capped tracer
AP-T
armour piercing tracer
AP 1
armour piercing incendiary
API-T
armour piercing incendiary tracer
cstr
canister
CP
concrete piercing
frag
fragmentation
frag-T
fragmentation tracer
frag-HE
fragmentation high explosive
HE
high explosive
HEAT
high explosive antitank (shaped charge)
HEAT-FS
high explosive antitank fin stabilised
HE-gas
high explosive gas
HEI
high explosive incendiary
HEI-T
high explosive incendiary tracer
HEP
high explosive plastic .
HESH
high explosive squash head
HV AP
hypervelocity armour piercing
HV APDS-T
hypervelocity armour piercing discarding sabot tracer
HVAPFSDS-T
hypervelocity armour piercing fin stabilised discarding sabot tracer
HV AP-T
hypervelocity armour piercing tracer
HVTP
hypervelocity target practice
illum
illuminating
Page 55 of 61
prop
propaganda
RAP
rocket assisted projectile
SAP
semiarmour piercing
SHRAP
shrapnel
TP
target practice
WP
white phosphorous
(2) Fuse types

Abbreviation Type of fuse
BD
base detonating
MT
mechanical time
HTSO
mechanical time superquick
PD
point detonating
PDSD
point detonating se1f-destruct
PIBD
point initiating base detonating
SO
superquick
VT
variable time (proximity)
Page 56 of 61
EOD STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES

From a storage safety point of view the mentioned points below has to be done.
1.
The UXOs and explosive ordnance has to be stored in 7 different groups, namely:
A1:
HE ammunition with an ignition system.
A2:
HE ammunition without an ignition system.
A3:
Pyrotechnics.
A4:
Initial explosives as detonators, boosters, handgrenade igniters etc.
A5:
Small arm ammunition .
A6:
White phosphorus.
A7:
Smokeless powder and black powder.
A7:
Ammunition without any explosive substance.
White phosphorus explosives and especially residues (eg shrapnel) must be

stored outside the store house.
Use hard cases.
2.
Use muffling material to prevent damaging (or worse) of the ammunition item.
3.
Be always aware of detonators between other explosives, especially between small

arms ammunition.
4.
Prevent that ammunition stick in the packaging.
5.
The UXOs and/or case, brought in by the EOD team, will be provided with the
regarding MAC EOD Task number and article description.
6.
In confer with the EOD coordinator can be determined that bigger amount of
explosive ordnance will be stored in a other place.
Ammunition Storage Safety.

1.
Explosives ordnance are to be stored neatly and carefully. Explosives become

unserviceable and more hazardous through dampness, heat and careless handling.
Page 57 of 61
2.
Explosives must always be stored in a dry cool place with good cover and
ventilation.
3.
Explosives must be kept above floor level on duckboards or shelves.
4.
The storage area must be at least 60m away from any other building, depending of
the amount of explosives stored ( see Technical Guideline page 55)).
5.
Failing this they must be separated from each other by a blast proof partition, eg
sandbag wall.
6.
Explosives must not be removed from their boxes or packages until they are to be
used. The number of open packages must be kept to a minimum.
7.
No flammable material such as chemicals, oil, paint or rags may be kept in the
explosive store.
8.
At all times explosives are to be secured to prevent loss or theft.
9.
Ensure personnel with storage facility knows the procedures in handling an

emergency with ammunition.
Storage Environment
1.
No Smoking signs are to be clearly displayed on all visible approaches to the

store. No person shall smoke within 50m of an explosive storehouse.
2.
Each store is to have located near the main entrance a fire extinguisher or bucket
fire pumps or equivalent emergency fire fighting equipment.
3.
Grass and undergrowth is to be kept short for 15m from the store. Burning of
vegetation is not permitted within 100m of the store.
Page 58 of 61
EOD TEAM EQUIPMENT

1.
The following table shows a recommendation for a standard EOD Team equipment
requirement.
Ser
(a)
Item
(b)
Qty
(c)
Remarks
(d)
Vehicles
1.
Vehicle, double cabin, diesel engine, closed

loading compartment
As appropriate
Communication Equipment
2.
Mobile HF Radio and Sat phone
3.
Hand Held VHF Radio
4.
Battery charger for hand held radio
5.
Spare battery for hand held radio
6.
Magellan GPS 2000 or GARMIN equivalent
General Equipment
7.
Megaphone
8.
Flashlight, large (maglite)
9.
Flashlight, small(maglite)
10.
Metal box for equipment
11.
Wooden box for transport of UXO/fuses
12.
Reel for firing cable
13.
Fire extinguisher 6Kg
14.
Metal box , large, yellow
For explosives
15.
Metal box, small, red
For detonators
16.
Plastic box for non-electric detonators
17.
Warning flag
18.
Padlock
19.
Spade
20.
Pick
21.
Pruning saw
22.
Hedge-trimming shears
23.
35mm Digital camera
24.
Helmet with visor
25.
Body armour, vest and trousers
26.
Mine detector
27.
Bomb locator/ GA72cd
28.
De-armer/disrupter
29.
Rocket wrench
MECHEM (Pty) Ltd - Basic Ammunition Theory (June 2008)
Page 59 of 61
30.
Mechanical Impact wrench
31.
Hammer 500g
32.
Steel brush
33.
Hatchet, 300mm handle
34.
Prodder, metal
35.
Tripwire feeler
36.
Mine Marking cone
37.
Bag for demining equipment
38.
Hook and line set for UXO remote removal
400kg strength Terylene/polyester line
100m
Reel for line
Snap-link karabiner
Single hooks, approx. 50mm - 90mm dia.
Double hooks, approx. 50mm - 90mm dia.
Nylon or canvas strop 1 metre X 150mm
Snatch block for pulling line
Pulley for pulling line
Double eyelet 20mm dia in

each end.
Consumables
39.
Electric tape (roll)
40.
Gloves, leather
41.
SM EOD KIT and Supply box
42.
Spare battery for metal detector
43.
Spare battery for megaphone
44.
Spare batteries for flashlights
2 Sets
45.
Electric firing cable
800m
46.
Mined area marking tape
1 Roll
47.
UXO/Mine sign
48.
Sand bag small
1000
49.
Sand bag - large
500
1 Pair
20
Demolitions Kit
50.
Box for demolitions equipment
51.
Crimping tool for non electric detonators
52.
Leatherman Super tool
53.
Blasting machine (exploder)
54.
Galvanometer
55.
Pliers
56.
Shears, metal-cutting
57.
Tape, measuring, 2 metre
Page 60 of 61
58.
Tape, measuring, 50 metre
Explosives Set
59.
Plastic explosive or TNT
100kg
60.
Detonator, non electric
200
61.
Detonator, electric
200
62.
Detonating cord, metre
500m
63.
Safety fuse, metre
250m
64.
Safety matches, box
Medical Equipment
65.
First Aid Kit
66.
Bottled water
4 litres
Documentation Set
67.
Briefcase for documentation
68.
MAC Technical Standards
69.
EOD Standing Operational Procedures
70.
UXO Identification guide
Page 61 of 61

Basic Ammo Theory and Disposal Procedures

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MECHEM (Pty) Ltd

Basic Ammunition Theory

BASIC AMMUNITION THEORY

propellant elements ( powder-charge, rocket engine, etc.)

guiding elements ( ring, models, driving systems, etc.)

mechanical casing-elements ( cover, body, etc.)

action elements ( charge, cover, etc.)

activating-on-target elements (final action elements - detonator, explosive charge, etc.)

tracking elements ( tracers )

aerodynamic elements ( ballistics cap )

self-destruction elements ( self-destuctors ) etc.

BASIC CLASSIFICATIONOF AMMUNITION.

Small Calibre ammunition

artillery shell; mortar shell; rifle grenade; rocket.

The Identification of Ammunition.

Color Coding System.

To protect the ammunition against weather influences

Camouflage of the ammunition.

- green with yellow markings

- green with yellow markings and black band.

- green with yellow markings and white band.

- black with white markings

- white with black markings

Small arms ammunition

high explosive anti tank.

Attack of Aircraft in Flight.

SMKBE ( smoke base ejecting )

Ball, steel core.

AP (Armour Piercing) Ball.

API (Armour Piercing Incendiary).

APIT (Armour Piercing Incendiary Tracer).

Ammunition 20mm to 37mm

HEI (High Explosive Incendiary)

HEI-T (High Explosive Incendiary Tracer).

HE Frag-T (High Explosive Fragmentation tracer)

AP-T (Armour Piercing Tracer)

API-T. (Armour Piercing Incendiary Tracer)

APHC-T (Armour Piercing Hard Core Tracer).

APHE (Armour Piercing High Explosive).

APHE-T (Armour Piercing High Explosive Tracer).

High-Explosive Incendiary Tracer (HE-I-T)

It is as the HEI but with a tracer.

Armour-Piercing Incendiary Tracer (AP-I-T)

30mm Frag VOG-17M

The VMG is a setback-armed, impact-fired, point-detonating fuze.

HEAT S 5K with PIBD

Frag-T, UOR-281 and UOR-281U

Piezo electric fuze: PIBD

Point detonation and always fuze

BK 881- 882 HEAT

Point initiation base detonating fuze.

Point detonating fuze

Point detonating fuze

SA 7b: 1.8 kg HE fragmentation and impact fuze or SD

EOD HAZARDS AND PROTECTION

Ensure enough safety distance between the point of detonation and

Use shielding (protective measures) when possible / when required.

Ensure enough safety distance from the UXO.

Use available natural cover.

Apply shielding to UXO.

When possible cover the UXO when destroying (No mines!).

Check the demolition spot carefully

Whenever possible, do not bury WP ammunition during disposal.