Studying the ballistic performance of a metal target under combined KE projectile impact

Abstract

Abstract In this article, using analytical, numerical and experimental methods, the range of the ballistic limit thickness (BLT) of the metal target in the impact with the combined kinematic energy (KE) projectile is investigated. The design of these types of projectiles is to achieve effective damage behind the target and they consist of two components that are coaxial and back to back. The first KE projectile (FKEP) is a filled cylinder and acts as a leading projectile, while the second KE projectile (SKEP) is a hollow cylinder carrying a fuse and explosive materials and causing damage (behind the target) is obtained by the complete passage of this projectile from the target. There is little research available in the field of penetration analysis of these projectiles, and only a semi-analytical model based on shock theory has been presented for the analysis of hollow cylindrical projectile penetration. In this research, using the shock theory, a new analytical model is presented to predict the performance of the combined KE projectile in the metal target. In parallel, experimental tests of combined KE projectile hitting a metal target (using a Gas Gun weapon) and also a 2D axisymmetric simulation (LS Dyna software) were performed in the range of 200–850 m s−1 impact velocity. The average difference between the results of experimental tests and numerical simulation with the results of the analytical model is 7 and 5% respectively.