Analysis of High-Velocity Projectile Penetration Mechanics

Abstract

The process of cratering in materials is described in terms of four phases: transient, primary, secondary, and recovery. Rod projectiles were used in an experimental study of the relative importance of each phase and its influence on final crater dimensions. Aluminum and steel rods with aspect ratios of 1/6 to 25 were impacted into metallic and nonmetallic target materials at impact velocities of 0.3 to 6.7 km/sec. During the primary penetration phase, rod deformation was found to be comparable to that observed for shaped-charge liner collapse, and measured rod penetration rates showed good agreement with rates calculated on the basis of incompressible fluid flow considerations. Empirically developed equations are presented for predicting crater penetration and volume in metal targets.