Description
This fuze initiates detonation if the trajectory passes within the maximum influence radius of seventy feet. Against aircraft below 200 foot altitude, operating radius is reduced, depending on the altitude of the plane and the height of the waves, because of the wave suppression feature. Burst height over land or water may vary between 10 and 30 feet.
Random bursts will occur along the trajectory after arming, but before approaching a target. With a target at 12,200 yard range, 20 per cent of the rounds will function prematurely; and at closer ranges a somewhat smaller percentage will function prematurely. If the target at 12,200 yard range is approached within the sensitivity limits of the fuze, 65 per cent of the rounds will function.
These units have wet energizers of the reserve type; so effectiveness is not greatly diminished by normal storage for at least 18 months. Production has been suspended on this item.
This fuze is recommended for antiaircraft work from a minimum range of 800 yards to the extreme range of the gun. The wave suppression feature makes this fuze useful against low flying aircraft and surface targets, as it will not detonate on water influence above 15 to 20 feet; but it must pass somewhat closer to the target in order to function than in the case of high flying targets. It may be used effectively for barrage of land targets where bursts at 10 to 30 feet will be effective against personnel and lightly protected installations.
The Auxiliary Detonating Fuze Mk 54, replacing the Auxiliary Detonating Fuzes Mks 17 and 46, is used in conjunction with this fuze.
This fuze is currently being replaced by the VT Fuze Mk 53 in the new, smaller cavity projectiles.
Functioning
No information about functioning.
Hazardous Components
No information about hazardous components.
See Also
Nothing else to see.
Source(s)
MIL-HDBK-146, Fuze Catalog (1982)
OP 1664, Volume 1 - US Explosive Ordnance (1947)
