Experimental and numerical study on the interactions between high velocity long-rods and steel-elastomer bulging armor

The discussed laminated steel-elastomer armor takes advantage of the rubber interlayer that deforms rapidly under an impact which causes a subsequent deformation, so-called ‘bulging’, of the side steel plates. It is observed that long and slender kinetic-energy projectiles made with a tungsten alloy tend to fracture disturbed by an asymmetric contact with the deforming plates.The numerical analysis accompanies the ballistic test complementing it by a detailed insight into the defeat mechanism. Based on the experimental and numerical investigation, the given study explains its physical background