Debris fragment characterization in oblique hypervelocity impacts

A case history in debris characterization is presented for oblique impacts of chunky tungsten projectiles against thin plates. The integrated approach of scaled experiments and hydrocode simulations led to a semi-analytic model of behind the plate debris fragment distributions. This debris distribution model agreed quite well with the experimental fragment distributions derived from witness plate measurements. The 1/4 scale test program included three projectile masses, two target geometries (single and dual plates), a velocity range of 4–7 km/s and a strike angle range of 15–55 degrees. Close correlation of measured and predicted fragment distributions encouraged the extension of the model to higher velocities not currently obtainable in the laboratory.

The paper also includes discussions of critical features of debris in oblique hypervelocity impact, the scalability of fragment data, and the utilization of the derived fragment models in semi-analytic damage assessment codes.