Analysis of the Waterhammer concept as a mine countermeasure system
By: Ronald J. Karun
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 2000
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 49
Description: The purpose of this thesis is to provide an analysis of the Waterhammer concept design. Waterhammer is a device intended to generate repetitive shock waves to clear a path through the very shallow water region for amphibious operations. These repetitive shock waves are intended to destroy obstructions and mines alike. This thesis analyzes the energy budget of the deflagration processes and the basic principles of shock waves and acoustic saturation. When the source amplitude is increased to very high levels, acoustic saturation sets in, a state in which the amplitude of the received signal approaches a limiting value, independent of the source amplitude. Acoustic saturation thus will set physical constraints in the design of Waterhammer. Furthermore, as the pulse propagates in the shallow water environment, reflections from the water's surface and bottom floor will spread (he energy in the water column thus reducing the energy density, These combined effects can affect the intended performance of Waterhammer. The results of the analysis in this thesis lead to the conclusion that Waterhammer may not be viable in its present concept design.
Notes: "September 2000."

Thesis advisor(s): Larraza, Andres.

Thesis (M.S. in Engineering Acoustics) Naval Postgraduate School, Sept. 2000.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 47)

Approved for public release, distribution unlimited.

Also available online.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.

System requirements: Adobe Acrobat reader.

US Navy (USN) author.

updated dlb 11/3/06.