Pressure test containment wall thickness

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SUMMARY

To calculate the minimum thickness of a containment sheet steel wall in response to a missile impact, one must consider the velocity, mass, and diameter of the missile, along with the distance from the wall. The principles of armor design are applicable, particularly the need for ductility and edge support at low velocities (100 to 200 feet/second) and areal density at high velocities (over 500 feet/second). A comprehensive resource for understanding these principles is the textbook "Structural Failure" by Wierzbicki and Jones, which provides detailed insights into the mechanics of material failure under impact.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of missile dynamics and impact physics
  • Familiarity with armor design principles
  • Knowledge of material properties, specifically ductility and areal density
  • Basic concepts of structural engineering
NEXT STEPS
  • Research armor design techniques used in military applications
  • Study the impact resistance of various materials
  • Learn about the calculations involved in structural failure analysis
  • Explore the textbook "Structural Failure" by Wierzbicki and Jones for in-depth knowledge
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, military designers, and materials scientists involved in impact analysis and structural integrity assessments will benefit from this discussion.

Steve Batchelor
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Hi
If I know the velocity, mass and diameter of a missile from a failed pressure test how can I calculate the minimum thickness of a containment sheet steel wall say 1 meter away?
 
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That is not a simple question. Many parameters would come into play.

Your question IMO is the same as that of designers of military armor. Think battleships and tanks. Research armor design. Maybe some other PF member can recommend a textbook on armor design.
 
Last edited:
At low velocity, less than about 100 to 200 feet/second, you need ductility and edge support to stop the momentum. At high velocity, over about 500 feet/second, you need areal density to stop the kinetic energy. In between, you need both.

A good reference is Structural Failure by Wierzbicki and Jones. It is a good source, but has more detail than you really want.
 

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