Analysis of the Waterhammer concept as a mine countermeasure system

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to provide an analysis of the Waterhammer concept design. Waterhammer is a device intended to generate repetitive shock waves to clear a path through the very shallow water region for amphibious operations. These repetitive shock waves are intended to destroy obstructions and mines alike. This thesis analyzes the energy budget of the deflagration processes and the basic principles of shock waves and acoustic saturation. When the source amplitude is increased to very high levels, acoustic saturation sets in, a state in which the amplitude of the received signal approaches a limiting value, independent of the source amplitude. Acoustic saturation thus will set physical constraints in the design of Waterhammer. Furthermore, as the pulse propagates in the shallow water environment, reflections from the water's surface and bottom floor will spread (he energy in the water column thus reducing the energy density, These combined effects can affect the intended performance of Waterhammer. The results of the analysis in this thesis lead to the conclusion that Waterhammer may not be viable in its present concept design