Manpack makes electric weapons safer

DMS technologies was approached by the Ministry of Defence (Navy) to design and develop a battery system for the M134D mini-gun.

DMS technologies was 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, as the battery was in a sealed box the build-up of hydrogen may cause an explosion.

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, a nonhazardous 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 overcharging 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 allowing storage times of up to two years before a battery recharge is necessary, ensuring it is ready for use at all times.

The battery system for the M134D has recently completed UK land and sea trials in the Middle East where it surpassed the client's expectations and has now been accredited with NATO Codification NSN 6130-99-886-6530.

To date DMS has supplied in excess of 160 units to the UK MOD.

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