Analysis of the Applicability of Tesla Valve Geometry Design Manufactured by Polymer 3D Printing for Silencer in 5.56-mm Caliber Rifle

Sound dampers are vital in modern weapon systems, particularly for military applications. Conventional silencers typically employ simple expansion chamber baffles, which have limitations in damping efficiency and production flexibility due to their metal construction. This study explores the application of the Tesla valve concept, which is traditionally used for fluid flow control, as an alternative gas suppression system for firearms. A 5.56 mm caliber firearm inner silencer was designed based on Tesla valve geometry using CAD and fabricated using the fused deposition modeling method with ABS-GF material. Experimental tests were conducted with five shots per design variation, measuring sound pressure level (SPL) and bullet velocity, while SPL data were analyzed using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) method. The two-partition Tesla valve design achieved the highest SPL reduction of 7.03 dB, although it decreased the bullet velocity by 63.38 m/s. This study demonstrates the feasibility of combining Tesla valve geometry with 3D-printed materials to create lightweight, efficient, and rapidly producible firearm silencers. These findings provide valuable insights for developers and manufacturers to explore alternative silencer designs and anticipate future trends in passive sound suppression technology.

3D printing; Silencer; Tesla valve

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