Nonlinear Influence of Chamber Pressure on the Asymmetric Dynamic Response of a Rifle Muzzle Under Continuous Firing Conditions

The symmetry-breaking vibrational response of a gun muzzle, induced by the thermo–mechanical coupling effect under continuous firing, is a critical factor degrading shooting accuracy. This study investigates the nonlinear influence of chamber pressure variation on this asymmetric dynamic response. A thermo–mechanically coupled interaction model between a 5.8 mm bullet and its barrel is established using nonlinear finite element methods, incorporating experimentally measured pressure data. The kinematic state of the muzzle under a heated barrel condition (after 90 rounds) is systematically analyzed across five chamber pressure levels (90% to 110% of standard). The results reveal a highly nonlinear relationship between chamber pressure and muzzle vibration. Surprisingly, the maximum values for comprehensive radial displacement (10.601 × 10−3 mm), velocity (0.327 m/s), acceleration (11.083 m/s2), swing angle (0.192 mrad), and swing angular velocity (9.166 rad/s) occurred at the 100% standard pressure, not the highest pressure. Reducing the pressure to 90% of the standard effectively suppressed these asymmetric vibrations, with magnitudes declining by 84.28% to 95.49%. This indicates that the symmetry of the muzzle’s dynamic state is disrupted under thermal effects, and strategically lowering chamber pressure can restore a more symmetric and stable launch attitude, thereby enhancing accuracy. This study elucidates the nonlinear correlation mechanism between pressure and thermally induced asymmetric vibration, providing a novel perspective for optimizing the accuracy of rapid-fire weapons based on symmetry principles.