Comprehensive Methodology for Low-Velocity Drop Weight Impact Testing of Structural Slabs: Instruments, Procedures, and Analysis

Abstract

The significance of Low-Velocity Drop Weight Impact (LDWI) testing cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in assessing the impact resistance of structural components across various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, construction, and defense. Low-velocity impacts are evident across a spectrum of circumstances, spanning from occurrences in nature to mishaps within industrial settings. Instances encompass boulders striking rooftops amidst landslides, plummeting rocks posing threats to infrastructure within mountainous terrain, and industrial mishaps entailing collisions among equipment or machinery. The response of structures to rapid loading induced by LDWI is of utmost importance, necessitating precise and dependable testing methodologies. For researchers and professionals engaged in LDWI testing, a deep comprehension of essential equipment is essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of experimental outcomes. Central to this endeavor is the drop weight apparatus, comprising components such as a descending weight, an impactor, and a guiding mechanism, which are pivotal in regulating impact parameters like velocity and trajectory. This research offers a thorough examination of the fundamental equipment necessary for LDWI analysis and delineates the procedures for conducting such assessments on structural elements like slabs. By amalgamating insights from diverse scholarly sources, the authors present a comprehensive overview of indispensable apparatus and assessment techniques. This exposition serves as a valuable asset for both researchers and practitioners, furnishing guidance in equipment selection, procedural comprehension, and precise interpretation of experimental results. The assimilation of this knowledge enriches the proficiency and effectiveness of LDWI testing efforts, thereby facilitating informed decision-making in material selection, structural design, and optimization of impact resistance across a wide array of engineering applications.