Ballistic perforation and penetration of 6xxx-series aluminium alloys: A review

Abstract

This study evaluates literature on mechanical response of 6xxx series aluminium alloys under dynamic loads (projectile impacts). It is mainly concerned with the ballistic behaviour of 6xxx series Al alloys fabricated through different sample processing routes involving varied heat treatments at elevated, sub-zero and cryogenic temperatures. Failure and deformation mechanisms leading to dynamic fracture have also been considered. Microstructural evolution, wherever available, is incorporated in this study to understand its influence on energy absorption, and deformation and failure mechanisms under ballistic loads. A brief review of analytical and numerical perforation and penetration models for ballistic impact has been attempted too. These approaches have become more sophisticated incorporating compressibility, better material models, and interface friction effects, etc. over the years. The review also includes semi-empirical and empirical equations proposed based on previous experimental data in some works. However, more investigation is needed to ascertain the applicability of these empirical equations. The deficiencies in available work have thereupon been pointed out for future problems.