The simulation of dust effects from fragmenting charges

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the reason for the discrepancy in estimated and observed damage caused by fragmenting charges in closed environments.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of carefully conducted physical and numerical experiments was conducted. The results were analyzed and compared.

Findings

The analysis shows that for fragmenting charges in closed environments, dust plays a far larger role than previously thought, leading to much lower pressures and damage.

Research limitations/implications

In light of these findings, many assumptions and results for fragmenting charges in closed environments need to be reconsidered.

Practical implications

This implies that for a far larger class of problems than previously estimated it is imperative to take into consideration dust production and its effect on the resulting pressures.

Originality/value

This is the first time such a finding has been reported in this context.