Cast gun tube by electroslag refining

Abstract

Cast steels made by electroslag refining have been shown to be capable of meeting the mechanical-property specification for forged gun tubes. Not only were the transverse ductility and impact toughness well within the specified minima, but also the degree of directionality between the transverse and longitudinal properties was much lower than for conventionally cast and forged gun barrels. An 81 mm dia. mortar made from an as-cast ESR ingot stood up well under the high impulsive loads imposed during firing tests with charges of up to 143% of normal.