Modelling of thin wall perforation limit in debris particles impact on space structures

Space debris creates a serious problem for Space flights safety in Low Earth Orbits. In this paper, the results of high velocity Space debris fragment interaction with thin metallic shields are presented. The formulas for determining critical thickness of the target preventing from penetration being functions of impactor mass, speed and material properties of both impactor and target are developed. The developed simplified models are sup-ported by results of physical and numerical experiments.

Automated summary

This paper presents the investigation on the interaction between high velocity space debris and thin metallic shields, which poses a significant safety issue for space flights in low Earth orbits. Formulas for determining the critical thickness of the target to prevent penetration, which depend on the mass, speed, and material properties of both the impactor and target, have been developed. The developed simplified models have been supported by the results of physical and numerical experiments.