Numerical Analysis of a Sacrificial Cladding Panel Subjected to Localized Near-Field Impulsive Load

Abstract

Extensive research focus had been given to sacrificial sandwiched panels used to mitigate the effects of blast loads. This is due to their ability to distribute the load and absorbing significant portions of the blast energy. This numerical research studies the behavior of sacrificial sandwiched panels with axially oriented octagonal tapered core tubes subjected to near-field impulsive blast loading. The deformation behavior and a number of assessment parameters consisting of the peak force, stroke efficiency, energy absorption, and core efficiency were analyzed. The developed deformations modes were mainly influenced by the top plate and tube thickness. Tubes of a 5° taper performed unfavorably, exhibiting increased peak force and lower energy absorption. Moreover, panels of top plate thickness of 4 mm exhibited higher stroke efficiency as compared to panels of lower thickness. Furthermore, the top plate and tube thickness recorded the highest influence on energy absorption. Finally, a percentage increase of 73.5% in core efficiency was observed for thick-plated panels as compared to thin plated ones.