On Difference Methods for Shock Wave Propagation in Variable Area Ducts Including Wall Friction

Results are presented of an analytical study concerned with the prediction of the propagation of shock waves through air ducting systems. The solution is one-dimensional but is appropriate for ducts which have a variable cross-sectional area and includes attenuation due to viscous effects at the wall of the duct. Finite-difference methods are utilized to obtain an approximate solution to the basic fluid dynamic equations. Comparisons are given between analytical results and shock tube experimental data which validate the capabilities of the methods used to predict shock wave attenuation and the effect of duct area variation on shock strength.