DYNAMIC PENETRATION OF GRAPHITE-EPOXY LAMINATES IMPACTED BY A BLUNT-ENDED PROJECTILE

The dynamic penetration of graphite/epoxy laminates as a result of imp act by a blunt-ended projectile is investigated in the present study. The ballistic limit is determined by a series of high-velocity impact tests. A dynamic finite element analysis is performed to simulate the penetration process in composite laminates. A previously developed sta tic penetration model is incorporated into the analysis to predict the ballistic limit. The ballistic characteristics are represented by the relationship between the striking and residual velocities of the proj ectile. Good agreement between experimental data and computational res ults implies that the ballistic limit of graphite/epoxy laminates can be predicted by the present analysis without performing dynamic impact tests.