*German, WW2, Steel Tile-Breaker Fuse A-Z13A for the B1 Incendiary Bombs*
Marked on reverse: A-Z, 13 (circled), A, 182
The German Type 13 “Tile-breaker” fuse was developed to enhance the penetration capabilities of 1 kg incendiary bombs, officially designated as ‘B1E’. This fuse featured a steel nose, enabling the bomb to penetrate building roofs more effectively, thus earning its nickname ‘Tile-breaker’. The steel construction increased the bomb’s weight from 1 kg to 1.3 kg, facilitating deeper impact upon release. These incendiary bombs, containing a magnesium alloy casing filled with thermite, were extensively deployed by the Luftwaffe during the Blitz. Upon impact, the Type 13 fuse would ignite the thermite, causing intense fires. However, if the bomb landed on a soft surface or at a shallow angle, the fuse might fail to activate, resulting in unexploded ordnance.
The Type 13 fuse was introduced around September 1939, as indicated by its use in the 1.3 kg incendiary bombs dropped over Warsaw during that period. Its design was similar to its predecessor but utilized steel for improved building penetration. The increased weight and steel nose allowed the bomb to effectively breach roofs, delivering the incendiary payload into structures. Despite its effectiveness, the reliance on impact for ignition meant that some bombs failed to detonate, posing risks of unexploded ordnance.
The Type 13 “Tile-breaker” fuse was a significant advancement in aerial incendiary munitions during World War II, designed to ensure that bombs could penetrate building roofs and ignite upon impact, thereby maximizing damage to enemy infrastructure.
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