Verification of methods of analysis for soft missile impact problems

Abstract As part of a research project on the dynamic response of nuclear power plant structures subjected to impact loading, several computer programs have been developed to evaluate the reaction vs. time curve for ‘soft’ missiles impinging against fixed or moving targets. The mathematical-mechanical features of these computer programs are outlined, and reaction-time curves obtained by means of these programs are compared with experimental results. The influence of model discretization and of relevant input parameters is discussed, and areas in which further research is needed are indicated. It is shown that the mean reaction-time curve at the interface between missiles impinging against rigid or very stiff targets can be reliably predicted if the crushing strength of the missile is known.