Publications Details

Automated dry powder dispenser for explosive components

Garcia, P.; Salmonson, J.C.

Sandia and Mound are developing a workcell that will automate the assembly of explosive components. Sandia is responsible for the automated powder dispenser subsystem. Automated dispensing of explosive powders in the past resulted in separation or segregation of powder constituents. The Automated Dry Powder Dispenser designed by Sandia achieves weight tolerances of {plus minus}0.1 mg while keeping powderoxidizer separation to a minimum. A software control algorithm compensates fore changes in powder flow due to lot variations, temperature, humidity, and the amount of powder left in the system.