TECHNICAL PAPERS
Apr 1, 1991

Projectile Penetration in Granular Soils

Publication: Journal of Geotechnical Engineering
Volume 117, Issue 4

Abstract

Results from centrifuge and 1‐g model tests of projectile penetration into granular soils are described. Solid spherical projectiles in four calibers were fired into uniform samples of dry sand at approximately 305 m/s. Comparison to full‐scale test results verified the suitability of the centrifuge testing technique for this type of problem. Power relationships between projectile penetration depth and projectile mass‐to‐area ratio are developed. Statistical analyses show that these functions describe the combined 1‐g and centrifuge test results with a high degree of accuracy. Test results are compared to predictions of penetration depth based on Young's equation. Suggestions for improvements in Young's equation are made, including elimination of an arbitrary mass‐scaling factor, use of a soil description based on physical properties of the soil, and use of a soil‐specific exponent with the projectile mass‐to‐area ratio.

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Published In

Go to Journal of Geotechnical Engineering
Journal of Geotechnical Engineering
Volume 117Issue 4April 1991
Pages: 658 - 672

History

Published online: Apr 1, 1991
Published in print: Apr 1991

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Authors

Affiliations

Teresa Taylor, Associate Member, ASCE
Asst. Prof., Charles Edward Via, Jr., Dept. of Civ. Engrg., Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ., Blacksburg, VA 24061–0105
Richard J. Fragaszy
Geotechnical Consultant, 590 Caldwell Circle, Athens, GA 30605
Carlton L. Ho, Members, ASCE
Asst. Prof., Dept. of Civ. and Envir. Engrg., Washington State Univ., Pullman, WA

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