Description
The M232 propelling charge is the Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS) high-zone charge used with 155mm field artillery cannon systems. The charge has been optimized for use in the Crusader Field Artillery System but is compatible with all 155mm 39 caliber tube length systems in the US inventory. Zoning is accomplished through the addition of increments. No less than three or more than five M232 increments may be used in a single shot in a 39 caliber length tube.
The M232 propelling charge is comprised of a tan colored, coated, nitrocellulose-based combustible case with black markings. Each end has four raised 1/8-inch bumps. Contained within the case is solid, granulated M30A1 propellant. A center-core ignition system containing both black and ball powders ensures rapid, controlled ignition under all temperature and pressure regimes. Additives are also included to reduce coppering, tube-wear, flash, and blast-overpressure. The end ignitor bags are sealed behind red seals. The charge is bidirectional, it can be loaded and initiated with either end forward. Five M232 increments are packaged within a tan-colored extraction sleeve. There is one extraction sleeve per tan-colored PA103E2 ammunition can.
Functioning
No information about functioning.
Hazardous Components
No information about hazardous components.
See Also
Nothing else to see.
Source(s)
TM 43-0001-28, Artillery Ammunition (chg 11, 2003)
