7.9.1
Requirements for Number of BL Tests and Test Samples
A complete BL test for an armor type consists of successful individual BL tests being conducted on the required number of armor samples specified in table 8. The armor panels or plates that comprise a sample shall each be subjected to a BL test using all threat rounds for which the armor will be certified (see table 4). (a) Flexible Vests and Jackets: BL testing shall be conducted on complete armor samples (e.g., ballistic fabric panels, covers, carriers, and strapping). Removable trauma inserts/packs shall not be included as part of the complete armor sample used for BL determination. (b) Hard Plates: Testing shall be conducted on complete armor samples, except when the armor’s Type III or IV protection is provided entirely by rigid panels, plates, or inserts. In those instances, only the rigid panels, plates, or inserts shall be tested for baseline BL. When plate inserts are tested in conjunction with a flexible vest or jacket, the flexible component shall have previously demonstrated its full compliance with this standard at its appropriate level. 7.9.2
Test Procedure Requirements The angles of incidence for all shots shall be 0°. All samples shall be tested dry.
All BL testing shall follow the basic procedures of sections 5.3.3 and 5.3.5 of MIL–STD– 662F; however, the specific test parameters in table 9 shall be adopted. For each panel, shooting shall continue until either 12 shots or the maximum number of shots allowed on the panel has been reached. For armors that are limited to less than 12 shots, the firing sequence shall be continued on additional panels until 12 shots are reached. After each 12 shot sequence, a new sequence shall be performed until the total required number of shots as listed in table 8 has been reached. Table 9. Test parameters and requirements for ballistic limit test Parameter Description Velocity of first shot Velocity step until first reversal. Velocity step until a second reversal. Velocity step after second reversal.
Value The reference velocity for the armor type and caliber (table 4). – 30.5 m/s (– 100 ft/s) if first shot was a perforation. + 30.5 m/s (+ 100 ft/s) if first shot was a stop. ± 22.9 m/s (± 75 ft/s), depending on result of previous shot ± 15.2 m/s (50 ft/s) ), depending on result of previous shot
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Section Reference in MIL–STD–662F 5.3.3 5.3.5 exception to 5.3.5 5.3.5 5.3.5