Beamtech's MHz Burst-mode Laser Successfully Applied to High-speed PIV

Beamtech's MHz burst-mode, high-energy laser was successfully deployed in a customer laboratory at a research institute for Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) tests in complex flow fields. The system enabled ultra-high temporal-resolution measurements of flow fields spanning sub-/transonic to hypersonic regimes, and allowed for resolving the turbulence energy spectrum.

Temporal resolution is a critical concern for hypersonic flow measurements. Conventional commercial PIV solutions operate at 10–100 kHz, whereas this experimental setup overcomes multiple challenges across MHz laser sources, imaging, control, and super-resolution flow diagnostics. Related research papers are currently being prepared/submitted for publication.

High-repetition-rate, high-energy burst-mode YAG laser

The High-repetition-rate Nd:YAG lasers used in this successful application is a burst-mode, high-repetition-rate, high-energy nanosecond Nd:YAG laser independently developed by Beamtech. Key features include:

1. Low M² factor — excellent beam quality.

2. High structural stability — reliable for relocation and transport.

3. One-button start — user-friendly operation.

4. High precision in system synchronization and control.

In addition to MHz high-energy burst capability, the laser supports a PIV double-pulse operating mode. The optical design uses the same seed source and the same amplifier for both pulses, ensuring identical spatial beam paths for the double-pulse configuration — a major convenience for successful PIV measurements.

Main technical specifications

• Output wavelengths: 1064 nm, 532 nm, 355 nm, 266 nm
• Pulse width: < 10 ns
• Sub-pulse energy: 

• Burst-mode sub-pulse repetition rate: adjustable from 10 kHz to 1 MHz
• Maximum number of sub-pulses per burst: