Computer modeling of 12-inch actuator shock test performance

The 12-Inch Horizontal Actuator is a high velocity mechanical shock simulation testing device used for component development shock testing at Sandia National Laboratories. This machine is pneumatically driven and propels a ram sled along a track where a programmed shock pulse is generated during an impact with another sled containing the test item. Computer models have been developed which allow prediction of: (1) actuator performance in terms of pressure setting which produce the desired initial thrust of the ram sled; (2) sled brake performance which is needed to ensure stopping the sleds within length of the sled track; and (3) shock pulse amplitude and duration parameters associated with the desired shock test input. Experimental results are presented which verify the accuracy of the models. The modeling effort has significantly improved test efficiency by reducing the number of calibration tests required to develop required shock loading conditions. Successful development of these computer models demonstrates the great potential of computer applications in improving the quality of unique test capabilities such as the 12-Inch Actuator. 5 refs., 7 figs., 3 tabs.