Additive manufacturing of linear shaped charges for curved penetration

Linear shaped charges (LSC) are typically manufactured in continuous lengths and formed into an inverted “V”. They use explosive force to cut through a target with a straight blade, usually in the demolition industry, but there is also significant interest in cutting a circle with the LSC formation for military and breaching applications. While some curved LSCs do exist, there are limitations for the curve due to the manufacturing process; additionally depth of penetration is reduced as the blade is formed at an angle due to varying inside and outside dimensions of the LSC. The run-up/run-down effect that is prevalent with the use of LSCs also poses as an obstacle towards cutting a full circle, as the optimal penetration depth is not reached in the run-up/run-down areas. Additive manufacturing allows for geometric complexity not possible in other manufacturing techniques. In this work, selective laser melting with a Renishaw 250 system was utilized. Using additive manufacturing, two separate design challenges were addressed; reducing the amount of run-up that occurs, and producing curved penetration with the LSC blade. LSC performance was evaluated by the depth of penetration, reduction of the amount of run-up that occurs, and curvature in the cut compared to traditional liners. The aim of this work is to show the potential for reducing the amount of run-up and curving the blade of a LSC through additive manufacturing of LSC liners.