Numerical investigation of 2A12 aluminum alloy thin targets impacted under oblique angles by blunt-nosed high-strength projectiles

Abstract

Numerical simulation of 2A12 aluminum alloy thin targets impacted by hard blunt-nosed projectiles under different oblique angles was performed using Abaqus. The velocity variation curves of the projectiles and the ballistic limit velocity of the targets were obtained. Then, the motion trajectory and angle variations of the projectile mass center under different oblique angles were analyzed. A comparative analysis of crack growth and damage of the targets under oblique impacts was conducted. Specifically, the effects of the obliquity and initial velocity of the projectiles on the ballistic performance and failure modes of the targets were investigated. It was demonstrated that the ballistic limit initially decreased and then increased in accordance with the increasing impact angle. In addition, an “easiest penetration angle” was identified. This angle, which is associated with the projectile motion attitude and the target failure mode, enables the projectile to penetrate the target at a minimum initial velocity.