The paper presents the results of experimental-numerical tests of firing at aluminum composite materials. The test materials were manufactured by pressure infiltration of porous ceramic preforms made of -Al2O3 particles in the amount of 30% and 40% by volume. The EN AW-7075 alloy was chosen as the material matrix, and the steel 7.62×39 mm (M 43) FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) intermediate ammunition was selected for firing. In the result of the experiment, the samples were perforated with a clear difference in the muzzle diameter. The projectile with fragments caused damage to up to three reference plates placed behind the samples (witness plates) in composites with 40% of particles by volume. The mechanics of crack propagation during ballistic impacts of the projectile was characterized based on microstructure studies. Then, using numerical analysis of impact load, the examination of composite materials puncture in the ABAQUS environment was carried out. The Finite Element Method (FEM) was employed for the discretization of geometric models using Hex elements. The Johnson-Cook constitutive model describing the relationship between stress and strain in metal-ceramic composites was applied for the analyses. Numerical models were then subjected to numerical verification using smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). Based on the obtained results, it was found that the hybrid FEM/SPH method correlates significantly with the experimental results.

Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) is a Lagrangian formula-based non-grid computational method for simulating fluid flows, solid deformation, and fluid structured systems. SPH is a method widely applied in many fields of science and engineering, especially in the field of materials science. It solves complex physical deformation and flow problems. This paper provides a basic overview of the application of the SPH method in metal processing. This is a very useful simulation method for reconstructing flow patterns, solidification, and predicting defects, limitations, or material destruction that occur during deformation. The main purpose of this review article is to give readers better understanding of the SPH method and show its strengths and weaknesses. Studying and promoting the advantages and overcoming the shortcomings of the SPH method will help making great strides in simulation modeling techniques. It can be effectively applied in training as well as for industrial purposes.