Lead-Free 5.56mm x 45mm and 9mm Luger Infantry Ammunition Made by RUAG Ammotec
15 June 2004 15:59
RUAG Ammotec Thun/Switzerland takes another major step forward in the ammunition technology and is about to launch entirely lead-free infantry ammunition of calibre 5.56mm x 45mm on the market. 9mm Luger ammunition completely free of lead has already been on the market for several years. Apart from this, many of the RUAG Ammotec products are equipped with lead-free and low-pollution ignition elements based on the SINTOX® technology. RUAG Ammotec has been leading the world for years in the development and production of completely lead-free ammunition, also referred to as 'Green Ammunition' or 'Green Ammo'.
In small-calibre cartridges, ecologically doubtful heavy metals are primarily found in the ignition elements and projectiles. A source of particular concern is the lead. Numerous scientific investigations have revealed the problems associated with lead and their consequences for the human health. As much as 3.5 grams of lead are to be disposed of per round of calibre 5.56mm, and in the case of pistol ammunition between 2.5g and 8g. Rapidly rising disposal costs are the inevitable result, which is why more and more nations are preparing to partly or even completely ban lead in ammunition.
Leading for years in the development and production of lead-free ammunition
RUAG Ammotec has been engaged in the research and development of eco-friendly ammunition for a long time. A first success was achieved years ago with the SINTOX® ignition technology. It has permitted to drastically reduce the emission of harmful substances during the ignition process. A low-pollution 5.56mm ammunition was already certified by NATO in the year 2000. In the meantime the SINTOX® technology has gradually found its way into many other products of RUAG Ammotec. This has not been enough, however.
The search for novel projectile designs without lead continued in the effort to satisfy military and civil requirements. A breakthrough in this area materialized with the introduction of the 9mm Luger Self. Instead of lead, a special design with two liners of tombac slid into each other is used. Thanks to the tombac solution there is no need to resort to the very expensive tungsten alternative. The innovative Self ammunition is not only appreciated for its excellent compatibility with the environment, but convinces equally by its high precision and reliability.
The same technology serves as basis for the development of entirely lead-free 5.56mm ammunition of an even higher penetration capacity. To optimize the interior-ballistic properties, the SINTOX® ignition technology has been developed further as well. Proving at the works is already finalized and a first major test at the customer's is due yet this year. The technology's compliance with the NATO specifications will also be established in the near future. This is how RUAG Ammotec submits impressive proof of its traditionally high innovation capabilities.
For more information on this company:
RUAG Ammotec - Environmentally Friendly Small Arms Ammunition and Grenades, Mortar and Artillery Training Systems
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