IMPACT TESTS IN AN AIR-WATER MIXTURE

Experimental impact tests were performed using a shock machine and aerated water by means of an air-bubble generator. High speed shock test machine allows carrying out tests of impact on water (slamming). This machine permits to stabilise velocity with a maximal error equal to 10% during slamming tests. The air volume fraction in the bubble was measured by optical probe technique. The present work is aimed at quantifying the effects of the aeration on the hydrodynamic loads and pressures during the entry of a rigid body at constant speed in an air-water mixture. The impact tests were conducted with a rigid pyramid for an impact velocity equal to 15 m.s(-1) and for two average void fractions, 0,46% and 0,84%. The reduction of the impact force and pressure due to aeration has been confirmed by these experiments.