Blast Transport of Debris from Scale Model Buildings, Volume I - Chapters 1 through 5,
Abstract
These tests were conducted to simulate in small scale, 1/140 to 1/8, the flight and ground distributions of debris ripped from masonry and wooden buildings by nuclear blasts. Those simulated in these tests had peak overpressures of 10 to 35 psi from detonations of 0.1 to 12 megatons. Scaled up test results are that wood debris can be carried over 2,000 feet with the blast, can travel over 1,000 feet to the side, can be lofted over 300 feet into the air above the building and can attain as much as 0.7 of the peak air particle velocity. These bounds are correspondingly less for denser masonry debris. Such effects can be a serious hazard to blast resistant facilities and these tests were part of a study to define these debris hazards. In all, 125 scale buildings were exposed to test blasts from up to 500 tons of TNT. The scaling factor, model debris density, and location from the test blast were determined by a scaling theory specifically developed for these tests. These models were specially constructed of loose pieces which simulated masonry blocks, plywood panels, beams and rafters. Some models were placed in groupings with one model building width between models. Less debris was carried away from the interior model buildings than from models on the periphery or from models placed by themselves. Tests were conducted on level terrain except in Event DIAL PACK where 15 degree slopes were constructed. These had limited effects on debris travel and slopes cannot be used to protect vulnerable facilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 18, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA084641
Entities
People
- Eugene F. Witt