Investigating the behaviour of fluid-filled polyethylene containers under base drop impact: A combined experimental/numerical approach

In this work, the behaviour of fluid-filled plastic containers under base drop impact is investigated using a combined experimental/numerical approach. In addition, theoretical predictions from two approaches, waterhammer theory and a mass-spring model, are also given. Experimental tests are conducted using a specially designed rig for testing plastic containers (bottles). Tested containers are fully instrumented with pressure transducers and strain gauges. The experiments are simulated using a two-system fluid-structure interaction procedure based on the Finite Volume Method. Good agreement is found between measured and predicted pressure and strain histories. Results obtained are in favour of waterhammer theory. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.