Investigating the behaviour of fluid-filled polyethylene containers under base drop impact: A combined experimental/numerical approach

In this work, the behaviour of fluid-filled plastic containers under base drop impact is investigated using a combined experimental/numerical approach. In addition, theoretical predictions from two approaches, waterhammer theory and a mass-spring model, are also given. Experimental tests are conducted using a specially designed rig for testing plastic containers (bottles). Tested containers are fully instrumented with pressure transducers and strain gauges. The experiments are simulated using a two-system fluid-structure interaction procedure based on the Finite Volume Method. Good agreement is found between measured and predicted pressure and strain histories. Results obtained are in favour of waterhammer theory.