Question: Is protecting or “tucking” the leading edge of the silencer panel perforated material necessary?
Answer: NO. Some designers claim by “tucking” the leading edge under the frame materials, it is protected from the high gas velocities. Firstly, the Schock leading edge is seal welded, it is not exposed to “flow” under the sheet. Secondly, the ideal gas velocity through the silencer sections is 180/ft. per Second or approximately 122 Mile per hour wind. It is not possible for this wind speed to bend or alter 11 gauge (0.125” thick materials). Schock uses a multi ton break press to form 11-gauge materials.
Poor weld quality and design equals pre-mature failure despite whether the leading edge is subjected to flow or not.
https://schock-mfg.com/gas-turbine-exhaust-silencer