Used in microwave communication applications, a waveguide rotary joint allows one part to be rotated while connected to a fixed part. An example is a rotating radar antenna
In the moving parts, the electrical continuity is achieved using λ/4-chokes which do away with metal contacts.
Waveguide rotary joint facilitates the continuous and regular flow of radio frequency with low insertion loss and well enhanced power-handling capabilities.
Waveguide rotary joint is used in all the high-frequency transmission systems like satellite communication, radars, air traffic control, and surveillance systems.
Different waveguide rotary joints are available which can handle various frequency ranges up to 40 GHz.
Top-quality waveguide rotary joint are now available with very low VSVR -voltage standing wave ratio- and low insertion loss.
Waveguide rotary joint can be custom designed to suit different applications.
The most common mechanical configurations of the waveguide rotary joints are;
U-style-where both the ports are at a right angle to the rotation axis,
L-style-where one port is at a right angle to the rotating axis.
I-style-both transmission lines are in straight lines.
F-Style-One port at right angle rotates and the in-line port is fixed into housing.
These configurations bring versatility and freedom electrical connections.
Raditek Inc. offers all types of Waveguide rotary joints check out their website.