GB826199A - Improvements in or relating to the filling of cartridges and apparatus therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

826,199. Cartridge - filling machines. MONTECATINI SOC. GENERALE PER L'INDUSTRIE MINERARIA E CHIMICA. Sept. 24, 1957, No. 18677/57. Class 9(1) A machine for filling cartridge cases comprises case-feeding and holding mechanism together with explosive feeding mechanism terminating in a nozzle having sliding fit in a case such that as the case fills there is relative movement between the nozzle and the case, the operating cycle of the machine being controlled by correct completion of the relative movement. Furthermore both mechanisms are operated by fluid pressure controlled by a set of distribution boxes actuated by a cam shaft and preferably the fluid is oil. The explosive is fed from a hopper 1, Fig. A, through slit 2 surrounded by an ebonite sheath 3 to a helical screw 4 extending through the nozzle 5. The screw 4 and an agitator 6 in the hopper are driven through a dog-clutch 10 and a V-belt 8, the toothed gearing and connecting linkage being enclosed in an oil bath. The empty cases are fed from a hopper 25, having an inclined reciprocated base, to a conveyer belt 24, which is controlled by a chain drive 31. From the belt the cases enter a collector 23 and are thrust from there by a piston 22 into a sleeve 15 3 mounted on a rotary head 14. A piston 16 carries a projection 17 which engages the head 14 and rotates it to bring the empty case to the filling position. After each rotary step the head 14 is stopped by a clamp 21. When the empty case reaches position 15 1 a piston 32, Fig. A, is aligned therewith and by way of a distribution box 34 controls the start of the filling cycle. The filled case is ejected by a piston 35, Fig. B, at position 15 5 , the mouth of the case having been closed at position 15 1 by means of a piston 36, which through a rod 39 also operates pistons 41 to hold the cartridges in position during rotation of the head 14. The cases are sealed at position 15 6 by means of a piston 46 which operates a set of hammers (not shown). Faulty positioning or a defect in a case is detected by means of a light source 67 aligned with position 15 2 and a photo-electric cell 68, Fig. A, the cell when activated by the light beam operating a relay to stop the machine. A micro-switch 69 is aligned with the shaft of distribution box 34 so that if there is a defect in the functioning of the machine, e.g. due to faulty feeding of the explosive the switch closes to stop the machine. The control devices may be connected to visual and audible warning signals. A motor driven fluid pressure generator is connected to the various parts of the mechanisms by conduits.