High-Power Vehicle-Towed TEM for Small Ordnance Detection

MR-201105

Objective

The objective of this project is to demonstrate detection of small ordnance targets, such as 20 mm and 37 mm projectiles, at depths greater than the standard "11x diameter" metric currently employed. Such detection will reduce the cost and improve the reliability of remedial actions.

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Technology Description

The system to be demonstrated is a ground-based version of the Battelle TEM-8 airborne electromagnetic sensor platform. It differs from existing technologies primarily in its focus on detecting the response from small and deep targets by maximizing the power of the transmitter field and the resolution of the receivers. Essentially, one loop of the helicopter transmitter system (nominally 4 m x 3 m) is deployed on a ground towable platform in conjunction with all the available receivers. The transmitter is a large-loop high-power (2800-3800 Am2) vertical field coil with a standard waveform and a range of user-programmable base frequencies (30 Hz to 270 Hz) that have been optimized for UXO detection. Powered by a gas generator on the tow vehicle, this exceeds the moment of most other systems by an order of magnitude. Modeling and field tests conducted under this project will guide modifications to the existing configuration to optimize it for the targets of interest.

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Benefits

The added power and increased signal-to- noise ratio of this system will enable better detection at depth and better target discrimination. By increasing the response amplitude in late times, classification of targets will be easier than with conventional systems, thereby reducing the number of false positive excavations. By increasing the detection depth for these targets, remedial actions will not have to be conducted with successive geophysical surveys, reacquisitions, and removals at 6-inch "lift" intervals. The wider footprint of the system will also have better general coverage than typical arrays (e.g., three EM61-mk2 sensors), thereby reducing the overall survey cost. The net result will be improved efficiency and reduced cost for ordnance cleanup for these typically difficult targets. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2013)

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Interim Results

Static tests have demonstrated an average 50:1 signal-noise ratio for a 20 mm projectile at 65 cm offset. This is equivalent to an 8-inch burial depth with a wheeled EM61-MK2 and is already substantially below the current 11x diameter detection depth.

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Points of Contact

Principal Investigator

Mr. T. Jeffrey Gamey

Battelle

Phone: 865-599-0820

Program Manager

Munitions Response

SERDP and ESTCP

Document Types

  • Fact Sheet - Brief project summary with links to related documents and points of contact.
  • Final Report - Comprehensive report for every completed SERDP and ESTCP project that contains all technical results.
  • Cost & Performance Report - Overview of ESTCP demonstration activities, results, and conclusions, standardized to facilitate implementation decisions.
  • Technical Report - Additional interim reports, laboratory reports, demonstration reports, and technology survey reports.
  • Guidance - Instructional information on technical topics such as protocols and user’s guides.
  • Workshop Report - Summary of workshop discussion and findings.
  • Multimedia - On demand videos, animations, and webcasts highlighting featured initiatives or technologies.
  • Model/Software - Computer programs and applications available for download.
  • Database - Digitally organized collection of data available to search and access.