Modeling and simulation of survivable armor design studies for IED threats

Abstract

Improvised Explosive Device (IED) is used as a strategic weapon of choice and continues to be a threat both globally and domestically. One of the deadly devices in this arsenal is the Explosively Formed Projectile (EPF). This study develops methodology for modeling and simulation of armor plates to survive EFP threats. The EFP effects are modeled as a pressure or blast wave using compressible isentropic conservation equations to get pressure loadings. The thermal effects are modeled as temperature intensities and resulting transient heat transfer analysis is conducted to obtain temperature distribution. The kinetic loads are modeled as high initial velocities applied to the plate. The combined mechanical and thermal loading is analyzed. The design space is generated for varying materials properties and thicknesses as parameters. Laminated composite and orthotropic composites are also used in addition to special high strength and high stiffness generic alloys. The analysis is done using both two-dimensional plate theories as well as threedimensional transient dynamic analysis. The results are presented showing maximum stresses and deformations for different combinations of materials and thicknesses. The results also indicate the need to use three-dimensional analysis for designing survivable armor. Some recommendations are made for further studies.