Microwave Techniques manufactures rigid waveguide with many sizes and configurations available for high power microwave and RF applications. As one of our flagship product lines, Microwave Techniques specializes in rigid waveguide transmission lines that are globally trusted and well-known for their high-power handling capabilities. Available in various lengths with most common flanges from sizes WR90 to WR2300+.
For custom assemblies, configurations, or abnormal lengths, please contact our technical team today.
Rigid Waveguide: Product Line Overview
We fabricate and provide high power, low frequency rigid waveguide assemblies, straight sections, accessories, and associated components. Our waveguides are built to exceed most common standards in the microwave and RF industry.
An overview of our rigid waveguide product line is as follows:
- WR90 to WR2300+
- Typical material is 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Also available in copper and UHV compatible
- Full and reduced height configurations available
- Integration of other components into assemblies
- A variety of flanges and custom interface options
- Conform to (or exceed) EIA, IEC, and MIL standards
- Ability to incorporate cooling, pressurization, and more
- Larger sizes up to WR6200 available on special request
- Special designs for customer-specific or unique requirements
Our Manufacturing Process
Microwave Techniques rigid waveguide is fabricated utilizing a strict and precisely controlled manufacturing process. One example of this is our advanced four-courner spray arc argon welding process. This technique is performed in precision fixtures on WR430 and higher. This ensures a high quality, mechanically stable, and electrically optimized waveguide. As a result of these advanced manufacturing processes, we have the most rugged and reliable rigid waveguide transmission lines, with unique high power handling capabilities, even in the most demanding environments.
The Advantages of Using Rigid Waveguide
The advantages of using rigid waveguide mostly center around better electrical performance, greater transmission charactersitics, and higher power handling capabilities. Overall, the benefits and advantages of using them include:
- Lower insertion loss
- Better power handling ability
- More choices for material selection
- Better transmission characteristics
- More tolerance for temperature variations
Applications and Use Cases
Rigid waveguide is utilized in a variety of applications involving microwave and RF. These transmission lines reach end users in several markets, such as: commercial, scientific, medical, industrial, broadcast, military, and more.
More specific use cases for rigid waveguides include:
- Antenna feed networks
- Satellite communications
- Radar tracking and communications
- Air traffic control (ATC)
- Weather surveillance radar (WSR)
- Directed energy weapons (DEWs)
- Scientific research applications
- Linear accelerators
- Particle accelerators
- Fusion energy research
- Industrial microwave processing
- Plasma processing
- Frozen food tempering
- Material heating and drying
- Medical imaging and research
- Oncology and radiotherapy
In addition to the list above, new applications for rigid waveguides are emerging continuously. Our engineering team is currently engaged in several advanced microwave research and development projects in hopes to expand the reach of our components. Part of our mission as leaders in the high-power microwave and RF industry is to further the science and help our partners in developing their new applications. We are always interested in working with new clients to help define new processes. Do you have a new microwave or RF application? Let’s connect and discuss your endeavors!
What is rigid waveguide?
Definition
Rigid waveguide (also known as rigid rectangular waveguide) is a type of microwave and radio frequency transmission line. It is a structure most often utilized to guide electromagnetic waves or signals at specific frequencies.
Sizes and nomenclature
There are several standard sizes of rigid waveguide. The “WR” designation stands for Waveguide, Rectangular. The number that follows the “WR” is an abbreviation of the width of the waveguide opening, in hundredths of an inch. For example, WR284 defines a waveguide (or assoicated component) whose cross-section width is 2.84 inches.
While there are many standard waveguide sizes from WR3 to WR2300, our specialized focus here at Microwave Techniques is from WR90 to WR2300+. Some exceptions include: we offer dummy loads in smaller waveguide sizes (WR28, WR42, WR62, among others), and we also consider working outside of this range only upon special project requests.
Factors to consider
Generally speaking, you should know or consider the following factors when using or procuring rigid waveguide:
- VSWR
- Frequency
- Application
- Attenuation
- Power level
- Material cost
- Pressurization
- Waveguide size
- Electrical needs
- System interface
- Mechanical needs
- Assembly orientation
- Overall system design
Obtaining the above information and data points is key in helping us determine the best solution for your application.
For all other information, please contact our microwave and technical RF sales team today!
