ASTM D8101_D8101M-18 - Standard Test Method for Measuring the Penetration Resistance of Composite Materials to Impact by a Blunt Projectile

1.1 This test method measures the resistance of flat composite panels in one specific clamping configuration to penetration by a blunt projectile in free flight. In this test method, the term “penetration” is defined as the case in which the projectile travels completely through the composite panel and fully exits the back side. The composite materials may be continuous fiber angle-ply, woven or braided fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites, or chopped fiber-reinforced composites. The resistance to penetration is quantified by a statistical function that defines the probability of penetration for a given kinetic energy.

1.2 This test method is intended for composite test panels in which the thickness dimension is small compared with the test panel width and length (span to thickness on the order of 40 or greater).

1.3 This test method is intended for applications such as jet engine fan containment, open rotor engine blade containment, or other applications in which protection is needed for projectiles at velocities typically lower than seen in ballistic armor applications. The typical impact velocity that this test is intended for is in the range of 100 to 500 m/s [300 to 1500 ft/s], as opposed to higher velocities associated with armor penetration.

1.4 A flat composite panel is fixed between a circular-shaped clamping fixture and a large base fixture each with a large coaxial hole defining a region of the panel that is subjected to impact in the direction normal to the plane of the flat panel by a blunt projectile. Clamping pressure is provided by 28 through bolts that pass through the front clamp, the test specimen, and the back plate. The mass, geometry, desired impact kinetic energy, and impact orientation of the projectile with respect to the panel are specified before the test. Equipment and procedures are required for measuring the actual impact velocity and orientation during the test. The impact penetration resistance can be quantified by either the velocity or kinetic energy required for the projectile to penetrate the test panel fully. A number of tests are required to obtain a statistical probability of penetration for given impact conditions.

1.5 This test method measures the penetration resistance for a specific projectile and test configuration and can be used to screen materials for impact penetration resistance, compare the impact penetration resistance of different composite materials under the same test geometry conditions, or assess the effects of in-service or environmental exposure on the impact penetration resistance of materials.

1.6 The impact penetration resistance is highly dependent on the test panel materials and architecture, projectile geometry and mass, and panel boundary conditions. Results are not generally scalable to other configurations but, for the same test configurations, may be used to assess the relative impact penetration resistance of different materials and fiber architectures.

1.7 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. Within the text, the inch-pound units are shown in brackets.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.