Dynamic response of tube containing water subjected to impact loading

Abstract

Dynamic response of a round aluminum tube supported at both ends was investigated when impacted at its center by an external mechanical loading. The tube was subjected to different conditions. First, the empty tube was tested. Then the tube was filled with different amounts of stationary water (i.e., 25, 50, 75, and 100% full), based on the inner volume of the tube. Finally, flowing water through the tube was considered. Different magnitudes of impact loading were also applied. The study was primarily conducted experimentally with some additional numerical studies completed to further understand the results. The impact force as well as strain along the tube were measured for all described test conditions. Their results were compared. Additionally, the vibrational frequency and damping of the system were examined using strain–time histories. The results showed that the dynamic behavior of the tube was significantly dependent on the amount of internal water as well as its flow condition.