Energy Density Calculations: DIPOLE WEST Shot 11
Abstract
DIPOLE WEST/11 comprised the simultaneous detonation of two 490-kg spherical charges of Pentolite. The particle trajectories in the resulting blast waves were measured, using the high-speed photography of smoke puffs, and analyzed. In this report, the results of the particle trajectory analysis are used to calculate energy densities within the blast waves. Energy density profiles and integrated energy yields for the primary spherical blast wave from the lower charge are presented and compared to energy density profiles and integrated energy yields calculated using the theoretical results of Brode, which describe a single charge of TNT detonated in the absence of a reflecting surface. Agreement is found to be good within the limits of uncertainty placed on the experimental and theoretical results. Energy profiles through the Mach stem blast waves above the ground and beneath the dipole interaction plane are also presented. The total energy within the leading portion of these waves is computed at several times and, in each case, the energy in the wave above the ground is found to be greater than that in the wave beneath the interaction plane. The total amount of energy in the Mach stem wave at the ground is also found to increase with time. These results may be explained by the lack of symmetry in the dipole configuration at greater distances from the charges. It is recommended that attempts be made to improve the particle trajectory analysis techniques in order to increase the accuracy of the energy measurements, thus leading to more conclusive results.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA069671
Entities
People
- D. J. Mcmillin
- J. M. Dewey
Organizations
- General Electric