Advancements in Blast Simulator Analysis Demonstrated on a Prototype Wall Structure

Book excerpt: It has been demonstrated that the UCSD Blast Simulator has the capability of generating repeatable heavy impact loading on large structures. The pulse shape and duration of the impact from the hydraulic rams is tailored by careful regulation of the hydraulic pressures (the punch) and additionally by the presence of a particular rubber material (the programmer) at the front of hydraulic rams. A systematic approach was undertaken in order to meet the challenges of incorporating these unique characteristics of the punch and the programmer into experimental data processing and high fidelity computer models of Blast Simulator tests. These new methods were then validated through a test series consisting of ten prototype wall tests and corresponding computer simulations. Additionally, important insight was gained with regard to the effectiveness of this particular prototype wall system as a hardening strategy, and in further demonstrating the capability of the Blast Simulator in generating blast-like loading on wall systems.