| Abstract: | A new model for calculating the resistance to penetration into geological or geologically derived materials is proposed. We assume steady‐state flow of the target material over the penetrator. The target medium is described by a rate dependent constitutive equation that accounts for combined effects of strain rate and compaction on yielding. The wedge‐shaped penetrator is considered to be rigid. The influence of the characteristics of the penetrator/target interface, impact velocity, target mechanical properties and nose geometry on the resistance to penetration is investigated. It is found that for low to intermediate impact velocities, accounting for friction results in a blunter optimal wedge geometry for optimal penetration performance. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
