Comparative Analysis of Metal Components Manufactured by WAAM Technology for the Strike Face Layer of Ballistic Protection

Abstract:

In the field of ballistic protection systems, Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology represents an innovative approach. WAAM offers a novel solution for producing complex components in ballistic protection systems. The process involves using an electric arc to melt metal wire, which is deposited layer by layer to form the desired structure. This method enables the creation of intricate geometries, presenting new possibilities for enhancing the ballistic resistance of protective systems. In this study, WAAM technology was employed to manufacture strike face layers for ballistic protection, with two types of welding wires selected to fabricate bimetallic composites. The produced components were evaluated in three configurations (COW, MCH, and Bim), which were subjected to ballistic testing with 7.62 mm FMJ M80 projectiles in accordance with the NATO AEP-55 STANAG 4569 standard. The results revealed that configuration II (MCH) exhibited complete ballistic resistance, meeting NATO AEP-55 STANAG 4569 level 1, while configuration III (Bim) demonstrated a higher velocity reduction compared to configuration I (COW).

• Periodical: Materials Science Forum (Volume 1151)
• Pages: 3-12
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-2gbZ6u
• Online since: June 2025
• Authors: Jindřich Viliš*, Zdeněk Pokorný, Jan Zouhar, Roman Vítek, Tomáš Fornůsek
• Keywords: Ballistic Properties, Composite, Metal Components, Microstructure, Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing

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