Acoustic suppression in a pulsed laser system

The paper describes theoretical and experimental studies aimed at achieving acoustic suppression in a high-energy pulsed electric discharge laser system. The theoretical studies address the performance of acoustic attenuators such as side wall mufflers and acoustic horns in both linear and nonlinear flow regimes. The linear regime is investigated by developing analytical solutions, whereas for the nonlinear regime a 'floating shock fitting' numerical technique is applied. Small scale experiments were conducted for an open cycle system with an acoustic suppression configuration consisting of a side wall muffler, acoustic horn, and sonic orifice plate. Comparison of the experimental results with theoretical predictions are presented.