Numerical modeling of the large strain problem in the case of mushrooming projectiles

The paper investigates the capabilities and limitations of five different numerical approaches to the modeling of large strains of mushrooming projectiles on the example of a 9 mm Parabellum. The studies included the following methods: FEM, FEM-Remeshing, ALE-Smoothing, ALE-Euler and SPH. The results of computer simulations are summarized and confronted with experimental data for reduced and nominal impact velocity. The selected methods are compared in terms of predictability, credibility of results, range of application and computational effectiveness. Additionally, practical guidelines for simulation of the soft-core projectile impact problem are given. The most realistic results were registered for the ALE-Euler model, but this incurred the considerable computational cost. FEM is suggested for simulation of projectile impact with reduced velocity as it takes the least CPU time. Selection of other methods should be based on maximum impact velocity and the available computer resources.