Enhanced Efficiency of Fundamental Plate Impact Research Through Preparation of Multispecimen Targets

Author(s):

David R. Ayers, Steven T. Davis, and Scott A. Turnage

Abstract:

Plate impact experiments require that targets and flyers be carefully prepared to meet tolerances in flatness and parallelism to achieve one-dimensional shock loading. Typical target preparations consist of lapping a single target specimen flat and parallel, and then potting it centered on the target using high-strength epoxy. Here, we describe new tooling and techniques to improve the potting process. The adoption of these techniques has led to decreased time needed for preparing and potting specimens and allows for precise mounting of multiple specimens in a single target. The potting of multiple specimens in a single target not only reduces the total number of shots required to build a dataset but also improves data quality for material comparisons.