STRUCTURAL RESPONSE OF A RAILGUN ACCELERATOR

The results of numerical simulation of the bore deformation and barrel dynamics are presented in the paper. The two-dimensional problem of t he stress-strained state and dynamics of a multi-layer cylinder under the action of moving load is solved. The algorithm developed is applic able to the problem of the dynamics of the barrels of any cross sectio n, The algorithm is also used to study the dynamics of tensile stresse s near the electrode surface, A hypothesis is proposed that the dynami cs of the barrel and tensile stresses may be among the reasons for the melt ''shaking-off'' inside the bore which may result in secondary br eakdown. If this effect takes place, it may be one of the fundamental physical factors limiting the kinematic characteristics of railguns.