About nonlinear aperture losses in power single-mode technological CO2 lasers with cross pumping of gas

Results of experimental and theoretical researches of physical nature and characteristics of a nonlinear optical wedge in the active zone of the technological CO2 laser with a cross gas flow are stated. Basic causes of occurrence of a wedge are light-induced give off heat and a dispersion of medium. The optical wedge results in strengthening diffraction losses on select and limiting apertures inside the stable cavity. However the estimations show, that at a correct choice of the aperture sizes and shapes the cavity losses are small and do not reduce appreciably power of the laser.