Abstract
This study investigates the application of Gurney and flight of fragment equations, typically used to predict metal fragment velocities, in modeling the water jet behavior. Three shotgun cartridge sizes were used as the energy source: 2.59 g, 5.83 g, and 7.13 g. Two configurations were tested: standard (full-barrel water load) and "negative 8" (partial water load). High-speed footage captured water column velocities, and Gurney models, including infinitely tamped and open-faced configurations, combined with the flight of fragment model were used to assess prediction accuracy. Results showed charge strength significantly affects water column velocity, with higher strengths yielding greater stability and velocity retention over distance. The infinitely tamped Gurney model closely predicted experimental velocities, deviating by as little as 1.4% for standard charges and 2.8% for negative 8 charges. Additionally, interesting dynamics such as a 1–2° rise in jet height and the rear overtaking the front was observed. These findings have significant implications for optimizing PAN disruptors and enhancing performance in high-velocity fluid applications and explosive breaching systems.
Recommended Citation
R. L. Bauer et al., "Application of Gurney and Flight of Fragment Calculations for Water Jet Velocities in Explosive Applications," Defence Technology, KeAi Communications, Jan 2025.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dt.2025.03.010
Department(s)
Mining Engineering
Publication Status
Open Access
Keywords and Phrases
Flight of fragment; Gurney calculations; Incompressible fluid dynamics; Optical velocity measurement; Water driven projectile
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
2214-9147; 2096-3459
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2025 KeAi Communications, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Jan 2025

Comments
Missouri University of Science and Technology, Grant None