Manoj sharma

133757
MSED

A radome (the word is a contraction
of radar and dome) is a structural, weather
proof enclosure that protects
a microwave (e.g. radar) antenna.
Radar is that technology which is used to
detect the high frequeccy waves.
The function of a radome is to shield a
microwave antenna from the adverse effects
of the environment.
When trying to detect incoming signals that
are weak to begin with, even a small
attenuation of the signal as it passes through
the radome decreases the sensitivity of the
system.
The radome must withstand structural loads,
loads caused by pressure difference between
the inside and outside of the dome, and in
the case of supersonic ight high
temperatures.
Figure 1-Spherical domes.
It is a spherical skin of microwave-
transparent material of radius R and
thickness t, supporting a pressure-difference
p between its inner and outer surfaces. The
two critical material properties in determining
radome performance are the dielectric
constant, E, and the electric loss tangent tan
Losses are of two types: reection and
absorption.
Function -Radome
Constraints - Support pressure difference dp
Tolerate temperature up to Tmax
Objective -Minimize dielectric loss in
transmission of microwaves
Free variable- thickness of the skin
choice of material.

Material Comment
1. PTFE, polyethylenes, Minimum dielectric loss
polypropylenes ,polystyrene , but limited to near
polyphenylene sulde (PPS) room temp.
2. Glass-reinforced polyester, Slightly greater loss,
PTFE, polyethylenes but greater strength
and polypropylenes, and temperature
polyamideimide resistance.
3. Silica, alumina, beryllia, The choice for re-entry
silicon carbide vehicles and rockets
where heating is great.