Methods of calculation of the penetration depth for semi-armor-piercing warhead

Depth of penetration for semi-armor-piercing warhead is discussed making use of methods of empirical formula, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation successively. Six empirical formulas of penetration depth are first contrasted. A theoretical formula is deduced based on cavity expansion theory. Three-dimensional finite element package LS-DYNA3D is used to build up the finite element model. The penetration depths are calculated and compared using methods mentioned above. The difference in results obtained among the six empirical formulas, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation are contrasted and analyzed.