Simulations of impact using the modified Gurson model

Abstract

We have performed modified Gurson model calibrations to the steel alloys Weldox 460E, Weldox 700E and Weldox 900E through finite element method (FEM) simulations of various tensile material tests performed, and used these material models to perform FEM simulations of impact of blunt tool steel projectiles on target plates made out of these steel alloys. The purpose of these FEM simulations was to study the dependence of target plate steel alloy on the ballistic limit velocity of the projectile resulting from the modified Gurson model. It was found that the modified Gurson model is able to reproduce the dependence seen in experiments, but that it is strongly dependent on a certain model parameter related to the shear stress dependence on material damage. We have also discovered potential problems, and possible solutions, regarding the calibration of these material models and the use of them in the FEM impact simulations carried out.