Analytical and Numerical Investigation of Ballistic Impact into Layered Targets with Analytical Modifications

In impact mechanics, layered targets are important due to their high resistance to projectiles penetration. This paper deals with the analytical and numerical analysis of the penetration of tantalum projectiles on semi-infinite ceramic-metal layered targets. In the analytical study, a new modified analytical model based on the analytical model of Fellows is presented. The modifications made to the Fellows analytical model include the changes of velocity of the projectile and ceramic, the angle and timing of the formation of the ceramic cone, the erosion of ceramic, projectile and backing. Each of these modifications alone reduces or increases the depth of penetration, and all of these modifications together improve the depth of penetration. Numerical analysis is done using Abaqus software. The behavior of projectile, ceramic, and aluminum is modeled on the actual behavior of the materials and the deformation. The projectile and backing behavior is modeled with the Johnson-Cook equations and the ceramic behavior with the Drucker-Prager plasticity equation and the state equation of Mie-Gruneisen. The results of the new correction analytical model and numerical simulation are compared with the results of other authors and experimental data. The results show very good agreement. The new modified analytical model, by removing the Fellows model defects, provides a more accurate prediction of the depth of projectile penetration in the ceramic-metal layered targets. So, the weakness of this model, which is related to the unpredictability of penetration depth at low speeds, has been remedied.