Adaptive Lagrangian modelling of ballistic penetration of metallic targets

A Lagrangian finite element model of ductile penetration is developed. Adaptive meshing is accorded a key role in following the large deformations which develop during penetration. An explicit contact/friction algorithm is used to treat the multi-body dynamics. Rate-dependent plasticity, heat conduction and thermal coupling are also accounted for in the calculations. The properties and predictive ability of the model are exhibited in several applications: copper rod impact, perforation of aluminum plates by conical-nosed projectiles and penetration of high-strength steel targets by WHA long rods. The simulations show close agreement with experimental observations and prior numerical results.