Effects of Production Parameters and Conditioning upon Ballistic Characteristics of Para Aramid Light Armors

Abstract

Composite materials are increasingly used in armors design due to their high strength to weight ratios and energy absorption capacities. It is very important to determine the best production parameters for armor production. On the other hand, the armors must show superior durability against harsh working conditions. So it is crucial to know the ballistic characteristics of such composite armors. In this study the effect of production parameters upon the terminal ballistic properties of para-aramid composite armor were examined under different conditionings. The composite armor plates were produced by hot pressing with four different pressing times. Before ballistic test, the armor plates conditioned at +21, +63, and -35°C at 50% of relative humidity and +21°C immersed into water temperature for 24h, in which weapons, ammunition, and equipment designed for use in the battlefield, are expected to fully operate.

Keywords

para-aramid terminal ballistic conditioning production parameters.

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