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Portable
Power Pack for the Royal Navy’s M-134D Mini-Gun |
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DMS technologies were approached by the Ministry of Defence (Navy) to
design and develop a battery system for the M134D Mini-Gun . The
existing battery was prone to overcharging and gassing – when a
battery gasses it releases hydrogen and as the battery was in a sealed
box the build-up of hydrogen may cause explosions. The Navy also had
several other issues including excessive weight, equipment reliability
and the overall life of the battery. The M134D is an electric powered
weapon that uses two motors, one to drive the barrels and the second
to drive the ammunition booster (500W). There was a further
requirement for the battery to fire one magazine of ammunition
consisting of 3000 rounds before recharge. |
The solution offered by DMS is a high capacity man portable power pack
that uses AGM battery technology, which is a non-hazardous sealed lead
acid battery derived from aircraft technology. The specialised
construction of the cells means that they offer the best power to
weight ratio available commercially. DMS also supplied an intelligent
charger that helps prevent over-charging and gassing. In trials, the
high capacity of the packs meant that over 50,000 rounds could be
fired before recharge. Also the battery solution offered a low self
discharge rate and is therefore able to sit in storage for up to two
years before a battery recharge is necessary, ensuring it is ready for
use at all times.
The battery system has recently completed UK land and sea trials in
the Middle East where it surpassed the client’s expectations. The
battery system has now been accredited with NATO Codification NSN
6130-99-886-6530.
To date DMS are currently supplying in excess of 160 units to the UK
MoD. If you require any further information on the above project don’t
hesitate to contact us.
(Ship image courtesy of VT Shipbuilding) |
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For further information please contact:
DMS technologies
Belbins Business Park
Cupernham Lane
Romsey
Hampshire
SO51 7JF UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1794 525400
Fax: +44 (0) 1794 525450
Email:
sales@dmstech.co.uk |
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