Flashlamp-pumped Nd:KGW laser at repetition rates up to 50 Hz

The laser performance of a Nd:KGW rod has been studied in a double, then in a single flashlamp cavity in the free running mode at input electrical energies ranging from 1-41 J and at a pulse repetition rate from 1 to 50 Hz. A maximum average output power of 61 W was achieved with a total efficiency better than 6%. We also tested the influence of the radius of curvature of the cavity-end mirror on the output energy at high repetition rates and on the stability of the cavity. Results in Q-switched mode are also presented, obtained either with an electro-optic switch or with a Cr4+:YAG passive element. Energies up to 1.1 J and 550 mJ, respectively, are obtained with a total efficiency close to 3%.