Metallographic observation of CPHP after high-speed penetration

The Concept Projectile for High-speed Penetration (CPHP) was designed for the purpose of maintaining structural stability of projectile at high striking velocity. Its performance into concrete was experimentally studied at striking velocity between 1130m/s and 1650m/s. The residual CPHP is investigated by metallography in the present manuscript. It is found that the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) distributed around the projectile surface which contacts target. We conclude that the interaction between target and projectile is the main cause of HAZ. Adiabatic Shearing Bands (ASBs) are also found around the projectile nose tip. Although they have positive contribution to the projectile mass loss, its influence can be ignored during the experimental striking velocity domain due to its rare number and limited distribution area. However, ASB may lead to the nonsymmetrical abrasion of penetrator and then decrease projectile performance at higher penetration velocity.