High velocity perforation behaviour of polymer composite laminates

Experimentally measured perforation data are given for woven, z-stitched an d through-thickness z-stitched glass polyester laminates for a number of la minate thicknesses (6, 12, 24 ply), a number of geometries of impactor (con e, flat and hemisphere), and two missile masses (6, 12 g). Impact perforati on velocities ranged up to 571 m s(-1) on 200 by 200 mm laminates with full y clamped boundary conditions. Results are expressed in terms of static and impact perforation energies. The discussion includes a study of energy abs orption mechanisms during perforation, with a view to identifying improved combinations of materials. It is concluded that all types of construction b ehave in a similar manner and that the flat ended missile has the largest d ynamic enhancement factor, i.e. ratio of impact perforation energy to stati c perforation energy. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.