Experimental Facility for Imaging of Medium Scale Underwater Explosions

摘要

A new experimental capability for the study of underwater explosions has been developed. This is based on a unique facility that permits direct optical imaging of the detonation of medium scale (1-5 kg) explosive charges at PSL's Underwater Explosion Test Facility, Melbourne, Victoria. Imaging of UNDEX events in a field environment presents many technical challenges including protection of structures and sensitive equipment from high shock loads, attainment of optically clear water, high speed imaging in low light levels and experimental operation at significant water depths. The techniques employed to successfully overcome these challenges are described. The potential of this new capability is demonstrated by imaging and analysis of the detonation of a 0.5 kg explosive charge of Composition B.