Accession Number:

ADA021188

Title:

Experimental Verification of a Theoretical Loading Function Describing Momentum Transfer from an Explosion to a Tree Stem

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

ARMY ENGINEER WATERWAYS EXPERIMENT STATION VICKSBURG MS

Personal Author(s):

• Keown, Malcolm P.
• Stoll, Jack K.
• Nikodem, Hansjoerg

Report Date:

1976-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

123.0

Abstract:

This study was conducted to validate methods previously developed by the Waterways Experiment Station to theoretically predict the clearing capability of a given explosive at a selected site in a forested area to be used as a helicopter landing zone. The prediction depends largely on a theoretical loading function used in the solution of a partial differential equation that describes the motion of a tree stem being acted upon by a shock front. Special equipment was designed to evaluate the loading function in terms of the impulse experienced by free-flying logs, which represented the tree stems. Seven explosions of 0.09-metric-ton TNT equivalent yield were detonated to provide adequate data for evaluation. Each explosion was monitored for the correct yield and shock-front symmetry. The results show good agreement between the stem loading predicted by the theoretical loading function and the actual loading experienced by the logs during the tests.

Descriptors:

• *BLAST LOADS
• *FORWARD AREAS
• *HELICOPTERS
• *LANDING FIELDS
• *TREES
• DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
• DEMOLITION CHARGES
• DETONATION WAVES

Subject Categories:

• Terminal Flight Facilities
• Armor

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE