A theory for the mushrooming of flat-ended projectiles impinging on a flat rigid anvil, using energy considerations

Abstract

The well-known theory of Taylor1 for the mushrooming of flat-ended projectiles uses a momentum equilibrium equation across the plastic wave front, as a basis for the analysis of the strain distribution. An analysis is now presented which employs basically the same approach as Taylor's in the general simplifying concepts of the process, but applies instead an energy equilibrium equation across the plastic wave. The resultant equations defining the final geometry are of simple form and the profiles predicted appear to be in closer agreement with experiment than are given by Taylor's theory. The present theory is developed to take some account of strain hardening, which appears to affect considerably the final profile. Essential differences between the present energy-based theory and Taylor's momentum-based theory are discussed.