Description
These anti transport mines are very similar in appearance to mechanical pressure mines, but they have a chemical ampoule inside as the detonating medium.
This rectangular wooden box mine has a chemical fuze, a hinged lid, and a wire handle at one end. It is 7 inches long, 4 1/2 inches wide, and 2 1/2 inches high. The mine contains slightly more than 2 pounds of explosive surrounding a central ignition chamber. A hole in the center of the lid is for insertion of a glass ampoule filled with acid. The ampoule is contained in a zinc case and is separated from the case at the top by a sponge-rubber washer. On the bottom of the ignition chamber a recessed wooden block holds a brass disk. On top of the brass disk is a hollow glass disk containing a black and white powder, separated by a glass partition. A paper disk fills the free space between the brass and glass disks. The disks are held in the recess of the wooden block by two spring clamps. The recesses between the disks and the wooden block are filled with tar or other waterproofing substances. Two detonators project into the charge through opposite holes in the wooden walls of the ignition chamber.
This mine was employed as an initiating mine for large charges buried in railroad beds. It can be used alone as an antipersonnel mine.
Functioning
Pressure on the zinc case surrounding the acid ampoule presses down and crushes both the ampoule and the glass disk containing the powdered chemicals. The resulting chemical reaction creates a flash which sets off the two detonators and explodes the charge.
Hazardous Components
Main charge - 2 lbs. (0.91 kg)
Physical Data
Length - 7 in. (178 mm)
Width - 4.5 in. (114 mm)
Height - 2.5 in. (64 mm)
See Also
Nothing else to see.
Source(s)
