Explosive Loading Laboratory Testing
Obtaining quality data from blast tests typically requires expensive live field tests. The University of California at San Diego (UCSD) developed a hydraulic-based blast simulator to simulate fullscale, live explosive events up to 3000 psi/ms without the use of explosive materials and without a fireball. Energy deposition, which takes place in time intervals of 1 to 2 ms, is accomplished via an array of ultra-fast, computer-controlled hydraulic actuators with a combined hydraulic/high pressure nitrogen energy source. The blast simulator generates high fidelity data on the response and failure processes associated with critical infrastructure components subject to explosive loads. UCSD is working to improve and validate computational blast physics models and codes using blast simulator and field test data. UCSD also uses the simulator to evolve effective blast hardening/protective methodologies for existing and new structures that can be distributed to the appropriate agencies for the protection of people and infrastructure at home and overseas. The simulator is performing fully repeatable blast load simulations on structural elements such as columns, beams, girders, and walls; on nonstructural elements such as windows and masonry walls; and on bridge components such as piers, and towers. For additional information please fill out the Contact Information Form.