Behavior to Dynamic Loads of Multi-layer Composite Structures

Abstract

The explosive effect and high velocity penetration of the ballistic projectiles of various sizes, design and compositions, on impact with different targets (armors composed of a combination of different metals) are complex. Both practical experiments and mathematical modeling of the phenomena associated to the interaction projectile-target are required to estimate their effect or to design more efficient projectiles and armor. In this study, the basic element of the simulation model is an incendiary projectile of caliber 7.62 mm with medium piercing power, launched with a maximum speed of 750 ms-1 on the multi-material target, which contains 4 different layers assembled into a ballistic cassette made of aluminum. The purpose of this ballistic cassette is to ensure a better contact and handling of multi-layer materials. The proposed model was calculated using mathematical modeling and empirical material constants to describe the nonlinear transitory impact process. Mathematical simulation of the impact between the projectile and target during impact shows that the projectile moves sequentially through the ballistic package, causing perforation, plastic deformation and heating, the resulting fragments being then expelled into the space around the target. The model indicates that the projectile will penetrate the front aluminum plate, as well as the AlCrFeCoNi and steel plates, but will be stopped by the aluminum backing plate. The real impact tests carried out using the ballistic cassette at dynamic impact with the 7.62mm incendiary projectile confirm the model assumptions, which prove the capacity of the composite model to safely stop the projectile.