VOP Nováky, an established player in the development and production of ammunition, recognizes the crucial importance of thorough testing of energetic materials to ensure the quality, reliability, and safety of its products. As part of this strategic vision, the company launched an ambitious project called TARMAC at the end of 2024. Its goal is to build a modern and comprehensive testing laboratory.
TARMAC Project: A Milestone in Modern Quality Control and Capability Expansion
The project represents a major investment in VOP Nováky’s infrastructure and equipment related to the testing of energetic materials. TARMAC is designed as an integrated laboratory consisting of three main parts: an X-ray analysis workplace, a technical testing system for initiators, and a chemical-physical laboratory for explosives analysis.
X-ray Analysis of Projectiles: A Detailed Look Inside
The first part of the TARMAC project focuses on establishing a state-of-the-art X-ray analysis (RTG) workplace dedicated to the inspection of TNT-filled artillery projectiles. The laboratory is equipped with the top-tier Comet Yxlon UX50 X-ray testing system, which enables non-destructive 2D and 3D imaging of the internal structure of projectiles, including advanced computed tomography (CT).
RTG analysis plays a critical role in detecting potential defects such as voids and cracks in the explosive fill or the projectile base. Accurate classification of these defects by shape, size, and location is essential to evaluate their impact on the functionality and safety of the ammunition. Early detection of internal inhomogeneities helps prevent undesirable events during the production, storage, and use of projectiles.
Initiator Testing System: Ensuring the Reliability of In-house Production
The second major component of the TARMAC project is the development of a comprehensive technical testing system for initiators produced in-house by VOP Nováky. This system primarily focuses on two types of initiators used in artillery ammunition: the M82 initiator and the KV-4H primer screw. The aim of these technical tests is to thoroughly assess the tactical-technical parameters and overall quality of the initiators. The tests include:
Lower and upper sensitivity limit test: Verification of reliable initiator function within defined extreme sensitivity limits.
3-meter drop test: Simulation of accidental drops during handling and transport to assess safety and reliability.
Shock test: Testing the initiator’s resistance to a series of impacts that may occur during ground transportation.
Vibration test: Verifying operational capability and safety in environments with vibrations and temperature fluctuations typical of logistics processes.
Waterproofness test: Ensuring the initiator’s tightness against water exposure.
Thermal resistance test: Testing the initiator’s ability to withstand extreme high and low temperatures encountered during storage or tactical deployment.
Thermal shock test: Assessing resistance to sudden temperature changes.
Ignition function test: Evaluating initiation reliability and the strength of the output impulse.
Action time test: Measuring the initiator’s response speed from striker impact to ignition.
Implementing this system of technical tests will significantly contribute to ensuring the high quality and reliability of the in-house produced initiators.
Chemical-Physical Laboratory: Comprehensive Explosives Analysis
The third key part of the TARMAC project is the establishment of a modern chemical-physical laboratory focused on comprehensive analysis of explosives. This lab will be equipped with cutting-edge instruments and devices for a wide range of tests, including:
Thermal stability tests: Differential thermal analysis (DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to assess resistance to thermal decomposition.
Thermal sensitivity tests: Determination of explosion temperature to evaluate resistance to heat stress.
Chemical stability tests: 100°C test, Bergman-Junk test, and tests to determine the shelf life of nitrocellulose-based propellants to verify long-term chemical stability.
Chemical compatibility tests: Evaluation of explosive compatibility with various explosive and non-explosive materials they may come into contact with.
Mechanical sensitivity tests: Determination of impact and friction sensitivity using specialized instruments.
Electrical sensitivity tests: Determination of the minimum electrostatic spark energy required to initiate the explosive.
Selected physical parameters control: Determination of moisture content, acidity, freezing and melting points, bulk density, appearance, and dimensional analysis—factors that influence explosive properties and behavior.
The creation of this chemical-physical laboratory will enable VOP Nováky to carry out extensive quality control of incoming energetic materials and broaden its analytical capabilities in this specialized field.
Benefits of the TARMAC Project for VOP Nováky
The TARMAC project marks a significant step forward in the company’s development and innovation journey. Enhanced quality control will help strengthen customer confidence and reduce the risk of claims. Expanding in-house testing capabilities will lower dependency on external laboratories, resulting in cost savings and more efficient development and production timelines. Moreover, the expanded expertise in testing energetic materials will boost the company’s market position and open up new opportunities for collaboration and the provision of specialized services.
The delivery of individual systems and equipment is taking place in stages, and several components have already been integrated into the company’s infrastructure. Although the project is scheduled for completion in February 2027, VOP Nováky is already experiencing significant strategic and operational advantages and a leap forward in the field of quality control and testing.
