An Investigation of Airblast Diffraction Loading on Simple Structural Shapes
Abstract
The primary objective of this investigation was to determine the adequacy of current simplified techniques for predicting airblast loadings on exposed above-ground structures subjected to high incident overpressures. The experimental program consisted of testing basic 2-dimensional shapes in a 13-in. diameter, high-pressure shock tube. Rectangular and cylindrical configurations were tested at nominal incident overpressures of 100 and 300 psi. The investigation was limited to early time loading because the initial diffraction period was considered the area of greatest uncertainty. Pressure measurements were recorded on the front, roof, and rear sections of the rectangle and at specified intervals around the upper half of the cylindrical model, and on a simulated ground plane in front of both structures. The experimental data were used to describe the phenomenology associated with high-pressure shock diffraction and to evaluate current simplified prediction techniques, presented in AD-B004 152L. The prediction techniques for rectangular structural loads were fairly reliable. Unsatisfactory techniques exist for determining pointwise structural loads on the cylindrical model and for determining ground surface loads in front of an above-ground obstruction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADB010797
Entities
People
- Jerry S. Doughty
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory