Structural responses due to underwater detonations : Validation of explosion modelling methods using LS-DYNA

Sammanfattning: Modelling the full event of an underwater explosion (UNDEX) is complex and requires advanced modelling methods in order to achieve accurate responses. The process of an UNDEX includes a series of events that has to be considered. When a detonation is initiated, a shock-wave propagates and the rest products from the explosive material creates a gaseous bubble with high pressure which pulsates and impacts the surroundings. Reflections of the initial shock-wave can also appear if it hits the sea floor, water surface or other obstacles. There are different approaches how to numerically model the impact of an UNDEX on a structure, some with analytical approaches without a water domain and others where a water domain has to be modelled. This master’s thesis focuses on two modelling methods that are available in the finite element software LS-DYNA. The simpler method is called Sub-Sea Analysis (SSA) and does not require a water domain, thus it can be beneficial to use in an early design stage, or when only approximated responses are desired. To increase the accuracy, a more complex method called S-ALE can be used. By implementing this method, the full process of an UNDEX can be studied since both the fluid domain and explosive material are meshed. These methods are studied separately together with a combination of them. Another important aspect to be considered is that oscillations of a structure submerged in water differs from the behavior it has in air. Depending on the numerical method used, the impact of the water can be included. Natural frequencies of structures submerged in water are studied, how it changes and how the methods takes this into account. To verify the numerical models, experiments were executed with a cylindrical test object where the distance and weight of charge were altered through out the test series. It was found that multiple aspects affects the results from the experiments, that are not captured in the numerical models. These aspects have for instance to do with reflections, how accurate the test object is modelled and the damping effects of the water. It is concluded that the numerical models are sensitive when small charges and fragile structures are studied. High frequency oscillations were not triggered in the experiment but found for both methods. It should be further investigated if the methods are more accurate for larger charges and stronger structures. Experiments with larger water domain would also be beneficial to reduce effects from reflections, as well as a more accurate model of the cylinder in the simulations.