Design and Analysis of a New Frangible Composite Cover With Split-Flap Opening and Self-Closing Features

To meet the strict new feature requirements for no-throwing parts and self-closing under bursting condition, a new composite cover is designed and analyzed experimentally and numerically. Test results show that the cover can be broken into 4 split subparts from the center to the flange by the warhead bursting, and the split subparts can be tied to the flange and automatic rebound and close after the missile is out of the launch container. Static finite element model under the pressure-bearing condition and dynamic finite element model under the warhead bursting condition are established. Numerical results, including processes of failure and self-close, are in good agreement with the experimental data. The influence of structural parameters such as the thickness of the main part of the cover and the number and the width of reinforcement layers, on the maximum deformation and the bursting failure load are investigated. The failure mechanism in the weak area and the automatic rebound and reset of the split subparts are also analyzed.