Split Hopkinson pressure bar: design parameters and prediction of the experiment output

Abstract

In this paper, a simple analytic model of Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) propelled by gas-gun is introduced. The model allows for prediction of the output of SHPB experiment or can be used inversely as a design tool for gas-gun propelled SHPB. The model is based on existing models of light gas-gun working according to adiabatic process and on one-dimensional wave propagation theory in linear elastic cylindrical slender bar. The model allows for calculation with elementary drag effects. Model functionality was evaluated and compared with the experimental results of a SHPB setup equipped with linear elastic (aluminium) bars and visco-elastic (polymethyl metacrylate) bars at two different impact velocities.