Perforation performance and mechanism of a torch utilizing Al/PTFE/Fe2O3/CuO thermite composites

Abstract

Aluminum-based thermite containing fluorine oxidizers exhibits excellent performance characteristics such as substantial heat release and tunable gas production. In this study, a torch loaded with Al/PTFE/Fe2O3/CuO thermite composites was recently designed to eject high-temperature jets and penetrate 10 mm-thick Q235 steel plates. The reactivity of the loading composites was systematically studied to analyze the perforation mechanism. The microstructure, the flame temperature, and pressure properties of the thermites were tested. The device’s perforation capacity was quantified. The research confirmed the application potential of fluoropolymer-based thermites in the field of metal perforation. The results of the pressure tests suggest that the composites have a synergistic effect on pressure properties, resulting in better peak pressure than single thermite. The fuel-rich thermite exhibited a higher flame temperature and heat of combustion. It is observed that the perforation velocity increased with the increase in flame temperature and peak pressure. By adjusting the Al and PTFE content of the near fuel-rich thermites, the torch with different equivalence ratios exhibited a tunable perforation time ranging from 0.4 s to 5.21 s. It is hypothesized that the formation of the alloy layer on the surface of the metal targets plays a significant role in the perforation process by weakening the strength of the plates and improving the mobility of the molten area. The results provide a new and practical path to designing efficient perforation agents.