27-10-2012, 11:09 AM
Effect of Microcracks in the Annular Groove Region of a Tungsten Alloy Kinetic Energy Penetrator
ABSTRACT
The influence of microcracks in the annular groove region of a kinetic energy penetrator is examined through a combined
theoretical, experimental, and computational study. Microcracks resulting from plastic deformation are quantified for a typical
penetrator made from tungsten alloy (WA). The effect of existing and proposed annular groove geometries on the stress field
near the penetrator surface is determined using finite element techniques, and the effect of the various stress fields on the
critical flaw size is examined. Recommendations of microcrack size and groove geometry are made to improve the fracture
resistance of conventional WA long rod penetrators.