Objective The aim of this paper is to explore the distribution and power field characteristics of the explosive fragmentation of cylindrical warheads.

Method The smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) in ANSYS/AUTODYN are employed to establish a numerical model of cylindrical charge warheads. Based on the convergence analysis of SPH particle size, the MOTT fragment distribution model is used to validate the numerical model. A systematic analysis of the distribution and power field characteristics of fragments is then conducted by considering the detonation mode, detonation position, charge aspect ratio and charge mass.

Results The results show that the detonation position and method significantly affect the velocity distribution of fragments at both ends of the cylindrical charge warhead. With an unchanged charge mass, the charge aspect ratio is confirmed to have limited influence on fragment velocity, but a more significant impact on the mass distribution of fragments. Under the same charge aspect ratio, the fragment velocity increases with the increase in charge mass. However, the increase in velocity gradually decreases with the increase in charge.

Conclusion The results of this study can provide important references for the design of warheads and the anti-strike protection structures of naval ships.