Overview
This lecture explains the mechanics and design of time-delay fragmentation grenades, including how they function, their key parts, and operational challenges.
Time-Delay Fragmentation Grenades
- The most common battlefield grenade is the time-delay fragmentation anti-personnel hand grenade.
- Its primary function is to kill or injure enemy troops by launching metal fragments in every direction when it explodes.
- The grenade's outer shell is made of serrated cast iron to enhance fragmentation.
- Inside, a chemical fuze mechanism is surrounded by explosive material, poured in through a filling hole.
Firing Mechanism and Operation
- The striker lever on top is kept in place by a safety pin to prevent accidental detonation.
- To use, depress the striker lever, pull the pin, and throw the grenade.
- Once released, the spring-loaded striker hits the percussion cap, creating a spark.
- The spark ignites slow-burning material in the fuze, providing about a four-second delay.
- The delay element ends at a detonator, which is then ignited, causing an explosion.
- This explosion sets off the main explosive, shattering the grenade and propelling metal fragments outwards.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Time-delay grenades are durable, easy to use, and effective for area damage.
- They may vary in timing (two to six seconds), making them somewhat unpredictable.
- The delay allows enemies the chance to throw the grenade back before it explodes.
Alternatives to Time-Delay Grenades
- Impact grenades explode on impact, removing the risk of enemies throwing them back.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Time-delay grenade — A grenade that explodes after a preset delay, not immediately on impact.
- Fragmentation — The process of breaking into pieces, causing damage by flying metal.
- Fuze — The ignition system controlling the timing of the explosion.
- Striker — A spring-loaded part that initiates the ignition.
- Percussion cap — A component that creates a spark when struck.
- Detonator — The device that causes the main explosive to go off.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review how the firing sequence of a time-delay grenade works.
- Read the next section on impact grenades for comparison.