An abrasion algorithm for projectile mass loss during penetration

A finite-element algorithm is presented for the computation of projectile m ass loss due to abrasion at a projectile/target interface. The algorithm in cludes an abrasion-rate model applied to the surface nodes of the projectil e, an adjustment of nodal masses, an adjustment of element volumes, and ful ly automatic rezoning of the projectile as required. Calibration of the abr asion-rate model is followed by a comparison of computed results to experim ental observations. Both depth of penetration and total projectile mass los s as a function of impact velocity are compared. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.