David Harper wrote:

I'm working on a project that involves antennas that appear to be
pressurized with nitrogren (approx 10psi). What purpose does this
serve? Does it help with transmission properties, gain, etc? It is
used on an aircraft, if that is a factor.

Thanks in advance!
Dave

In addition to the responses already posted, there is at least one other
possible, I repeat possible, requirement for pressurized waveguides,
antenna feedpoints, etc. It is to increase the breakdown voltage of the
local 'atmosphere' at very high power [e.g. megawatts at microwave
frequencies.]

"Dave Shrader" wrote in message
news:U%Lyc.35367$HG.5456@attbi_s53...
David Harper wrote:

I'm working on a project that involves antennas that appear to be
pressurized with nitrogren (approx 10psi). What purpose does this
serve? Does it help with transmission properties, gain, etc? It is
used on an aircraft, if that is a factor.

Thanks in advance!
Dave

In addition to the responses already posted, there is at least one other
possible, I repeat possible, requirement for pressurized waveguides,
antenna feedpoints, etc. It is to increase the breakdown voltage of the
local 'atmosphere' at very high power [e.g. megawatts at microwave
frequencies.]

More than possible, It is very common to have arcs in high power radar
equipment if there is moisture in the waveguide.

"Jimmy" wrote in message
. com...

"Dave Shrader" wrote in message
news:U%Lyc.35367$HG.5456@attbi_s53...
David Harper wrote:

I'm working on a project that involves antennas that appear to be
pressurized with nitrogren (approx 10psi). What purpose does this
serve? ...Dave

... It is to increase the breakdown voltage ...

More than possible, It is very common to have arcs in high power radar
equipment if there is moisture in the waveguide.



DRY Nitrogen is always better than the unknown. A phone cable which goes
under Wonder Lake Illinois has a nitrogen tank at one end. DRY Nitrogen is
always better than the muck in this lake too.


--
Steve N, K,9;d, c. i My email has no u's.