Effect of sensor installation angle on measurement of explosion shock wave pressure

Abstract The inclination of a shock wave pressure sensor with respect to the ground has been reported to have a significant effect on the accuracy of the measured shock wave pressure. Extensive research is required for the planning of damage power test site layouts and improvement of the accuracy of blast shock wave pressure tests. Thus, in this study, we established a three-dimensional numerical simulation model based on a real shooting range test site and investigated the effects of various sensor installation angles and measurement point distances on the shock wave overpressure via multi-point modeling. Overpressure data and pressure evolution contour plots were generated from seven sensor installation angles and six measurement points. Overpressure–time history curves, peak overpressure decay rates, and relative change in the peak overpressure with the installation angle were analyzed to investigate the effects of the sensor installation angle on the pressure test. The data obtained from the numerical simulation model were verified via field explosion tests. Furthermore, a theoretical correction model for the measured surface reflection pressure with respect to the installation angle was established, and a model calculation accuracy of 91.33%.