FURI | Fall 2021

Calibration of Single-Stage Gas Gun for Low Velocity Impact Studies

Through a series of experiments and adjustments, a single-stage gas gun at the Adaptive Intelligent Materials and Systems Center is calibrated for accurate and consistent use when launching projectiles at a desired velocity. Using a wide range of aluminum and steel projectiles with varying shapes and weights, both the velocity of the projectile close to impact and the pressure at launch are measured. Carbon laminate composites for impact testing will be fabricated using an in-house hot press. A velocity-pressure relation for several projectiles will be obtained. The pressure can then be selected to provide a required velocity for future applications.