Double piston shock-wave valve

A double piston shock-wave valve for the generation of shock waves used in aerodynamic experiments and studies is presented. The new piston system consists of high-pressure and low pressure chambers and is attached to the diaphram position of the shock-wave valve. It is also adaptable to a wide range of shock creating devices. To evaluate its reliability, the shock wave produced by this piston valve is analyzed using pressure transducers. Results indicate that the double piston shock-wave valve is capable of generating smooth postshock pressures at high incidence and Mach number levels.