Analysis and simulation of hypervelocity gouging impacts for a high speed sled test

An analysis and simulation of the gouging impact phenomenon which occurs at the Holloman Air Force Base High Speed Test Track (HHSTT) during hypervelocity impact testing is presented. Simulations of the sled/rail interactions were conducted using the hydrocode, CTH. These simulations utilize the most accurate and validated material models for the sled shoes (VascoMax 300) and rail (1080 steel) – which were recently developed. Sled shoe impacts with the rail were evaluated using various geometries possible in the field. The conditions leading to hypervelocity gouging were identified, as well as the condition which resulted in rail wear. The CTH simulations match results observed in the field extremely well. Recommendations are made, based on the latest material models and simulations, which should significantly reduce the occurrences of hypervelocity gouging at the HHSTT.