Fluid-structure interaction mechanisms for close-in explosions

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Andrew B. Wardlaw, Jr., | J. Alan Luton,

Affiliations: Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, Warhead Dynamics Division, Code 420, 101 Strauss Avenue, Indian Head MD 20640-5035, USA. Tel.: +1 301 744 2286

Abstract: This paper examines fluid-structure interaction for close-in internal and external underwater explosions. The resulting flow field is impacted by the interaction between the reflected explosion shock and the explosion bubble. This shock reflects off the bubble as an expansion that reduces the pressure level between the bubble and the target, inducing cavitation and its subsequent collapse that reloads the target. Computational examples of several close-in interaction cases are presented to document the occurrence of these mechanisms. By comparing deformable and rigid body simulations, it is shown that cavitation collapse can occur solely from the shock-bubble interaction without the benefit of target deformation. Addition of a deforming target lowers the flow field pressure, facilitates cavitation and cavitation collapse, as well as reducing the impulse of the initial shock loading.

Journal: Shock and Vibration, vol. 7, no. 5, pp. 265-275, 2000