Investigation on shaped-charge cutting and separation mechanism of weakening grooves on composite separation plates

At present, extensive research has been conducted on shaped-charge cutting of metallic separation plates, and a well-established design correlation exists between the cutting thickness and the shaped charge model. However, the corresponding relationship between Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composite materials and shaped charge models is not clear. In addition, the cutting and separation mechanism of the composite material separation plate by the weakening groove is not well understood. Therefore, for shaped-charge cutting of CFRP materials, it becomes urgent to select an appropriate shaped charge model and explore the role of weakening grooves in cutting. This study first simulates and analyzes the cutting of CFRP separation plates with and without weakening grooves. Cutting tests are then conducted on CFRP separation plates with and without weakening grooves, and the experimental results are analyzed. Finally, based on the kinetic energy change pattern of the CFRP separation plate sub-layer, the cutting and separation mechanism of CFRP separation plates caused by weakening grooves is revealed. The results show that for shaped-charge cutting of CFRP separation plates, the impact of weakening grooves is greater than the linear density of the shaped charge. The shaped charge with a linear density of 2.0 g/m type can complete the cutting of about 3 mm thickness CFRP separation plates with weakening grooves. The supporting function of weakening grooves can weaken the delamination of the CFRP separation plates and ensure good cutting quality.