How Are Fuses Used in Artillery?
An artillery fuse (spelled 'fuze' in most artillery applications) is the piece of a munition that determines when detonation occurs. There are many different types available, suited to different applications.
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History
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While early 19th century versions were of the ignition type, which burned a given length before detonation, modern versions of fuzes come in a variety of types, are controlled by microprocessors and laser/radio transmitters and are battery-operated.
Timed
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Timed fuzes are the oldest variation of the artillery fuze. Formerly consisting of a burning strand of material, timed fuzes are now much more precise and are controlled with a highly accurate digital clock. Use of a timed fuze requires proper calculation to explode at the intended site--a problem aided by the modern use of microprocessors.
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Impact
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Impact fuzes are the standard fuze type for high explosives. Generally placed at the rear of the shell, an electrical signal sets off this fuze upon impact with an object. As the nosecone collides with the target, an electrical circuit is completed either by nose deformation or a digital switch, causing detonation.
Delay
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A subset of impact fuzes, delay fuzes do not detonate until a set amount of time after impact. This allows for added penetration through armor, as the mechanical force of the shell can pierce the hull of the target before the explosion detonates, allowing maximum interior destruction.
Proximity
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Shells with radio or laser-controlled fuzes measure the distance to a target and detonate at a set range, allowing for detonation before impact. Midair explosions can maximize an effected area, and are often used for anti-personnel and non-penetrating weapons.
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