A miniature Hopkinson experiment device based on multistage reluctance coil electromagnetic launch

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Electromagnetism

Background:

• Miniaturized Hopkinson bar techniques are crucial for high strain rate material testing.
• Existing launchers often face limitations in precision, size, or noise.
• There is a need for compact, high-precision electromagnetic launchers for specialized applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a novel seven-stage reluctance miniaturized Hopkinson bar electromagnetic launcher.
• To demonstrate the device's capability for high strain rate testing.
• To achieve precise control over projectile velocity.

Main Methods:

• Design and construction of a seven-stage reluctance electromagnetic launcher.
• Integration of a high-performance microcontroller for control.
• Utilizing capacitor sets for energy discharge and projectile acceleration.
• Testing and validation of the launcher's performance characteristics.

Main Results:

• Successful development of a miniaturized, seven-stage reluctance electromagnetic launcher.
• Achieved projectile velocities up to 65.5 m/s.
• Demonstrated high precision, small size, and low noise pollution.
• Verified accurate control of projectile outlet velocity via microcontroller-based capacitor discharge.

Conclusions:

• The developed launcher meets the stringent requirements for miniaturized Hopkinson bar testing at high strain rates.
• The device offers a significant advancement in compact, high-precision electromagnetic launching technology.
• The precise velocity control enables more reliable and repeatable high strain rate material characterization.