Abstract

We present a novel design for a fluid jet capable of producing thin stable sheets of liquid of high optical quality. Figure 1 shows the principle of the design. The end of a nozzle, which is just a thin cylindrical stainless steel tube, is extended by two wires. After being parallel for a short distance, they reach a maximum separation of ~15 mm and then gradually come together again. After leaving the nozzle, the liquid runs down the wire forming a sheet between them. Eventually the liquid is drained along a bottom wire, which is slightly thicker than the others.

© 1984 Optical Society of America