Influence of Nose Shape and L/D Ratio on Projectile Penetration in Frozen Soil
Abstract
This report presents the results of a laboratory test program designed to determine the applicability of two analytical solutions to projectile penetrations in frozen soils. The test program consisted of firing small caliber cylindrical projectiles into frozen soil targets. Four types of 7. 9-mm-diam projectiles were tested: two with a hemispherical nose the other two flat-nosed, with both long (length/diameter = 4) and short (L/D = 2) versions of each nose shape. Penetration depth versus impact velocity data are presented. Comparisons of the data indicate that a flat-nosed projectile is a less efficient penetrator than one of equal weight with a hemispherical nose. A small increase in resistance to penetration is observed for an increased L/D ratio. Two penetration solutions are compared with the test results. One is empirical, based on target strength and projectile characteristics. The other, a closed form solution, is based on the expansion of a spherical cavity in the target material. Modifications and further definition of nose shape coefficients and a mass scaling factor increase the applicability and accuracy of the empirical method to the solution of small arms penetration problems. The closed form solution performed well for impact velocities below 600 m/s. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA085398
Entities
People
- Paul W. Richmond
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory