Finite-Element Analysis Modeling and Simulation of an Aimed Cluster Warhead Based on Truegrid Software

Abstract

An aimed cluster warhead is designed to have six surfaces on the radial direction. Each facet consists of many preformed tungsten balls aligned in rows and columns. The warhead is most frequently used on Surface to Air Missiles (SAM’s) and other point defence systems such as those dedicated to Counter-Rocket, Artillery and Mortar (C-RAM) use. Utilizing Finite-Element Analysis(FEA) TrueGrid software a model of the aimed cluster warhead was created.. It shows that TrueGrid software can build models such as an aimed cluster warhead with a lot of preformed fragmentations quickly, effectively and expediently. Using LS-DYNA FEA[Acronym exposition] software, fragment formation, flight characteristics and the penetration potential of the aimed cluster warhead were simulated based on four different detonation modes. The numerical simulation results show that the designed aimed cluster warhead can form fragments with a velocity of some 2,200 meters per second(m/s). These fragments showed a capability to penetrate a Duralumin target that was 30 millimeters (mm) thick at a distance of 50 metres (m) The modeling and simulation method of this paper will provide references for the design of aimed cluster warheads for use in SAMs and C-RAM platforms.