Model impact experiments with KE-projectiles: influence of scale on oblique-plate penetration

The possibilities to perform scale impact experiments according to the "replica scaling model" with long rod projectiles are discussed from a practical point of view. The influences of scaling on oblique plate penetration are presented. Two different scales are studied and a scale factor of 1:2 is choosen for the experiments, i.e. the model scale projectile is half the size of the full scale case. The variation of the mechanical properties and density of the projectile material has been investigated in order to see if it is possible to fullfill the replica modelling prerequisite of having the same material in the model as in the full scale case. Reverse impact tests with "full scale" projectiles (length 180 mm) have been started. Apart from scaling, the influence of small initial yaw angles (typically 0.5-1°) will also be studied. This is a common yaw angle during normal impact tests and could give scatter in the ballistic behaviour.