Effect of Starting Conditions on the Internal Flow Field and Interior Ballistic Performance of an Underwater Ventilated Launch

Abstract

As one of the future main directions for underwater artillery, a ventilated launch can significantly reduce the huge water resistance during the underwater launching process. This paper aims to clarify the effect of starting conditions on the internal flow field and interior ballistic performance of an underwater ventilated launcher. Firstly, a three-dimensional unsteady model of gas–liquid two-phase flow is established. Following, an interior ballistic program of the underwater ventilated launch is developed. A coupling model between interior ballistic and gas–liquid interaction is then established, accounting for the projectile’s dynamic boundary effect and gas–liquid interaction. Subsequently, the simulation accuracy of the model is confirmed. Finally, the effect of parameter adjustments on the internal flow field and interior ballistic properties are contrasted and examined by altering the starting conditions. The results indicate that adjusting the gas injection pressure and projectile starting pressure can effectively regulate the drainage and resistance reduction effect, thereby obtaining the desired interior ballistic performance of the underwater ventilated launch. The findings offer recommendations for future underwater launchers.

Keywords

• underwater launch
• gas–liquid interaction
• flow field
• interior ballistic
• drag reduction