Drag Coefficient Measurements for Typical Bomb and Projectile Fragments

Abstract : The FRAGHAZ computer program has been developed to predict the hazardous regions due to fragments produced by an accidental explosion of stored ammunition. Determination of these hazardous regions is based on computer simulations of fragment trajectories. Currently, the fragment drag coefficients used in the program are extrapolations of subsonic drag coefficients out to transonic and supersonic speed regimes. Errors in the Mach numbers effects of these fragments can influence the predicted range characteristics. This paper describes a series of wind tunnel and air gun tests conducted to measure the drag coefficients of representative bomb and projectile fragments over the entire Mach number range experienced in flight. Comparative trajectories are made to illustrate the differences between using the original and current drag coefficient data for the FRAGHAZ program.