Shock failure analysis of metallic structures by using strain energy density method

Failure of metallic structures operating under shock loading is a common occurrence in engineering applications. It is difficult to estimate the response of complicated systems analytically, due to structure's dynamic characteristics and varying loadings. Therefore, experimental, numerical, or a combination of both methods is used for evaluations. In this study, test pieces made of two different materials are subjected to shock loads stemming from firing of a Gatling gun. Strain measurements are made, and finite element analysis of the test piece is performed. As a result of this study, strain energy density theory is applied to predict the shock failure of metallic structures. © IMechE 2014.