DEVELOPMENT OF A NUMERICAL MODEL OF THE 9 MM PARABELLUM FMJ BULLET INCLUDING JACKET FAILURE

Even though ballistic experiments are widely accepted as the only reliable way to probe
terminal effects, we demonstrate that computer simulation can be a useful alternative. Par-
ticularly, the high energy projectiles are seldom studied in the field of forensic sciences. That
situation being favorable to computer simulation, a 3D finite element model of the worldwide-
used 9 mm Parabellum bullet has been developed with Abaqus explicit software. A Johnson-
Cook constitutive model, fed with the split Hopkinson pressure bar experimental parameters,
accurately describes the materials’ behavior (lead and brass). Experiments were performed
with a handgun and a hard steel plate target in order to discuss the reliability of the model.
Accurate predictions about bullet deformation and failure were obtained without any post-
calculation adjustment of parameters.