Simulations of slug impact with smoothed particle hydrodynamics: Some remarks on frequently asked questions

The Finite Element method is a well suited tool to take into account the complexity of the geometries, the non linear behavior laws and the contact modeling. The Lagrangian algorithm is in its essence relatively simple and well adapted for impact problems between solids. It have drawbacks when the mesh is subjected to large deformation. The Euler-Lagrange formulation helps avoid large distortions but is more difficult to set up and presents difficulties when the boundary conditions are of Lagrangian kind. To solve these problems frequently encountered during fluid-structure impact, we use in EUROPLEXUS code the SPH formulation (for the slug) coupled with classical finite element. In this paper we present some results of a numerical investigation about the influence of different parameters used in SPH such as the artificial viscosity, the smoothing length... These results are then applied to slug impact loading of a vessel head.