Advanced coaxial cable technology for aerospace-type applications

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28 June 2006 Interconnection

A major advance in coaxial cable technology has been introduced to South Africa by Webb Industries, which offers a comprehensive range of coaxial cables and connectors.

Silicon dioxide (SiO₂) cable assemblies from Times Microwave Systems are claimed to be the most advanced interconnection systems available for the toughest interconnect applications. They feature improvements in cable design, manufacturing and glass seal technology and the range of connector types available.

Manufactured by only two companies in the world, Webb Industries has made the new coaxial cable assemblies available locally to supplement its existing range, and to cater for specialist applications in the aerospace and radar technology sectors.

"This is a superb product, and we have already submitted samples to a potential client. It is admittedly expensive, but this cost is negligible in comparison to the total cost of a typical radar installation, for example," says Fanie Viljoen of Webb Industries.

Viljoen adds that these new SiO₂ cable assemblies, which are fully imported from the US, offer significant benefits. "The use of advanced equipment and materials results in the production of a low-loss, high-velocity dielectric with consistent properties from run to run. This results in excellent phase versus temperature and loss versus temperature performance, and excellent repeatability of these characteristics from lot to lot," he explains.

Compared to other cable types, he says SiO₂ cable provides exceptionally low hysteresis, with phase and loss values returning to the same values at a given temperature - even after extreme excursions. The development of hermetically-sealed intermediate sections allows the use of the full range of Times Microwave Systems connectors. Non-replaceable connectors are also available. All connectors for the SiO₂ cable assemblies use a crack-free, fired glass seal to provide the optimum microwave performance and hermetic sealing. Attachment to the cable is via state-of-the-art laser welding.

Times Microwave Systems has more than 50 years' experience in aerospace cable and connector technology. Apart from its comprehensive offering of coaxial cables and connectors, it is also a leading innovator in ancillary products for telecoms infrastructure. Webb Industries also has a range of duplexers and filters, earthing, lightning protection, and also supplies masts and towers.

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Advanced coaxial cable technology for aerospace-type applications

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