Suitability of numerical model from low to high velocity impacts against KM2 fabrics with isotropic hypothesis

Abstract In order to predict the effect of projectile impacts on aramid fabrics with a low computational cost a 1-layer mesoscopic model has been developed. This model has been studied with orthotropic and isotropic properties and have been compared each other. Similar results have been obtained in both cases in a range from low to high velocities (up to 1763 m/s). The comparison shows a very good fit for both models in the predictions of residual velocity and absorbed energy which rely on the experimental results of Park et al. (2014). Ballistic limit has been studied on both cases with good result considering experimental results of Rao et al. (2009) and Duan et al. (2005). Finally, the deformation induced by the projectile has been studied too. Furthermore, in this paper are presented the advantages and the limitations of each methodology.