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Abstract
The Australian Maritime Engineering Cooperative Research Centre, and its partner organisation initiated this research effort. In particular, BHP and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation held the principal interest, as this research effort was a part of the investigation into the utilisation of X-80 steel in naval platforms. After some initial considerations, this research effort focussed on the development of X-80 steel blast tolerant transverse bulkheads. Unfortunately, due to the Australian Maritime Engineering Cooperative Research Centre not being re-funded after June 2000 and other project factors, the planned blast tests were not conducted, hence this research effort focussed on the tools needed for the formation of optimised blast tolerant transverse bulkheads rather than on the development of a single structural arrangement. Design criteria were formed from the worst case operational requirements for a transverse bulkhead, which would experience a 150 kg equivalent blast load at 8 m from the source. Since the development of any optimised blast tolerant structure had to be carried out using finite element analysis, material constants for X-80 steel under high strain rates were obtained. These material constants were implemented in the finite element analysis and the appropriate solid element size was evolved. The behaviour and effects of stress waves and high strain rates were considered and the literature reviewed, in particular consideration was given to joint structures and weld areas effects on the entire structural response to a blast load. Furthermore, to support the design criteria, rupture prediction and determination methodologies have been investigated and recommendations developed about their relevance. Since the response of transverse bulkheads is significantly affected by their joint and stiffener arrangements, separate investigations of these structures were undertaken. The outcomes of these investigations led to improvements in the blast tolerance behaviour of joints and stiffeners, which also improved the overall
response of the transverse bulkhead to air blast loads. Finally, an optimisation procedure was developed that met all the design criteria and its relevant requirements. This optimisation procedure was implemented with the available data, to show the potential to develop optimised X-80 steel blast tolerant transverse bulkheads. Due to the constraints mentioned above the optimisation procedure was restricted, but did show progression towards more effective blast tolerant transverse bulkhead designs. Factors, such as double skin bulkheads, maximising plate separation, and the use of higher yield steel all showed to be beneficial in the development of optimal X-80 steel blast tolerant transverse bulkheads, when compared to the ANZACclass D-36 steel transverse bulkheads.