NIST Random Profile Roughness Specimens and Standard Bullets

Published

January 1, 2000

Author(s)

Jun-Feng Song, Theodore V. Vorburger, Christopher J. Evans, Michael L. McGlauflin, Eric P. Whitenton, Robert A. Clary

Abstract

Based on the numerical controlled (NC) diamond turning process used previously for manufacturing random profile roughness specimens, two prototype standard bullets were developed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). These standard bullets are intended for use in crime laboratories as check standards to help verify that the computerized optical-imaging equipment in those laboratories is operating properly. There is also a potential use of these standard bullets for enabling nationwide and worldwide ballistics measurement traceability and unification. Testing results showed that these standard bullets have identical signature marks and minimal geometrical non-uniformities such as pits, damage, etc. The digitized bullet signature is stored in a computer and can be used for reproducing the same bullet signature anytime. In this paper, the design, manufacturing technique, testing results, and potential use are discussed.

Conference Dates

January 20-21, 2000

Conference Location

Anaheim, CA, US

Conference Title

Measurements Science Conference

Pub Type

Conferences

Keywords

bullet signature, diamond turning, numerical control (nc), random profile, standard bullets

Citation

Song, J. , Vorburger, T. , Evans, C. , McGlauflin, M. , Whitenton, E. and Clary, R. (2000), NIST Random Profile Roughness Specimens and Standard Bullets, Measurements Science Conference, Anaheim, CA, US (Accessed October 10, 2025)