Simulation Study on Penetration of Non-Circular Projectiles

This study investigates penetration mechanisms of non-circular long-rod projectiles (triangular/cruciform cross-sections) under a low-strength projectile (A3 steel) and high-strength target (45 steel) configuration. Simulations at 1000–1600 m/s reveal velocity-dependent penetration gains: triangular sections achieved gains of 1.11% at 1000 m/s and 1.45% at 1300 m/s, while cruciform sections gained 2.83 and 3.52% at 1600 m/s. Material parameters exert distinct effects: yield strength predominantly governs circular-section performance, whereas shear modulus significantly influences non-circular sections. Optimizing these parameters amplifies shape effects—e.g., higher yield strength with lower shear modulus enhances triangular-section efficiency. Mechanistically, triangular sections benefit from structural self-sharpening and non-uniform debris flow at edges, favoring lower velocities. Cruciform sections form internal debris pathways, reducing friction to improve high-velocity penetration. A novel star-shaped cross-section, synergizing both mechanisms, outperformed conventional shapes across all velocities (e.g., 37.62 mm vs. 35.83 mm/37.47 mm at 1600 m/s). This work advances penetrator design through velocity- and material-optimized cross-sections.