Model Study Of A Buried Arch Subjected To Dynamic Loading

Model Study of a Buried Arch Subjected to Dynamic Loading

Model Study of Dynamically Loaded Arch Structures

As a part of this program, a series of laboratory model and prototype structures was tested dynamically in the Blast Load Generator facility located at WES to evaluate the use of scale-model tests in predicting the elastic response of a laboratory-size prototype structure to dynamic loads. Presented in this paper are the results of tests of three metal arch structures having diameters of 8, 16, and 24 in., respectively, placed at various depths of burial in dry sand and subjected to ground surface overpressures ranging from 57 to 196 psi.

Similitude Study of Flexible Buried Arches Subjected to Blast Loads

The objective of the study was to investigate and verify model-to-prototype scaling relations for blast loaded buried arches that respond both elastically and inelastically. Four geometrically similar, semicircular aluminum alloy arches with 4-, 8-, 12-, and 36-inch diameters were buried in dense dry sand and subjected to air-blast-induced loads on the surface. The tests were conducted at the Large Blast Load Generator located at the U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. The results of two series of tests, each consisting of 3 repeated shots, ranging from 70 to 300 psi, are presented. Within the range of parameters investigated, the scaling of the dependent variables were adequately verified. These variables included acceleration, velocity, displacement, thrust, and bending moment. (Author).