Experimental and Numerical Investigations of New Prototypes for Low Collateral Damages Ammunitions

Abstract

In collaboration with MBDA France and EURENCO, Le Bouchet Research Centre of Herakles has characterized three different designs of low collateral damages prototypes containing a radially or an axially arrangement of explosive and inert charges, in comparison with a reference charge. A preliminary analysis with AUTODYN® has been conducted to predict the velocity and the fragments size. Prototypes were manufactured and experimentally characterized (fragments recovery systems, witness plates, X-Rays, high speed and ultra-high speed visualizations). Finally, numerical simulations have been conducted with OURANOS® code taking into account high explosives reaction kinetics.