Influence of the projectile’s geometry on dynamic tension experiment

ABSTRACT The focus of this study is to discuss the influence of the projectile’s length on the results of an experiment of the Hopkinson Traction Bar (SHTB). Simulations have been made by means of finite elements using the commercial software ABAQUS in tests of traction at high speeds of deformation in samples of aluminum alloy 7017T73 varying the length of the projectile. Finite element analyses have been applied to simulate the effects of the variation in the length of the projectile in the measurements obtained in the incident, reflected and transmitted rods. Different warp speeds have been obtained by varying the length of the projectile while remaining constant speed. The results of the simulation show that the length of the projectile has a significant effect on the tension obtained in the sample and on the curve of tension-deformation. It can be concluded that the length of the projectile is a factor influencing the tests of dynamic traction, since it has a significant effect on the tension obtained inside the specimen. The simulations also provide complementary information to the experiments and a thorough understanding of the specimen’s behavior.