Manufacturing aspects
In this chapter, we will take a look at manufacturing aspects that are important for high-quality production of slotted waveguide array antennas. It is a wide subject so we will concentrate on critical parameters such as mechanical tolerances that relate to electrical performance. We will also discuss joining methods for metal materials, for example, dip brazing of aluminium. Applications at high frequencies (millimetre waves) in particular call for very high precision and special methods. An important area is the use of slotted carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) waveguides that offer light weight and thermal stability, typically required for large antenna systems for space applications. The technology is also used in some military ground and airborne radar systems. Some of the exciting developments in low-cost fabrication using plastic materials and metallisation techniques are discussed. This area is related to the microelectronic area, particularly for high frequencies and highly integrated antenna/microwave assemblies.
Manufacturing aspects, Page 1 of 2
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