Engine Acoustics Silencer

Example Acoustics Silencer from Innospace

SFU Rocketry is developing the Engine Acoustics Silencer — a transportable water-deluge-based system designed to dramatically reduce the sound generated during rocket engine testing. Rocket engines can exceed 180 dB during firing, producing dangerous and disruptive levels of acoustic energy. This system allows us to safely operate high-thrust engines in locations that would otherwise be inaccessible due to noise constraints.

The design centers around a large cylindrical enclosure equipped with high-flow water nozzles that spray directly into the engine plume. The water rapidly cools and disrupts the supersonic exhaust jet, breaking up shock structures and dramatically reducing broadband noise. The cylindrical housing helps further contain and dampen the remaining sound energy.

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Completion: Summer 2025