High Temperature Coaxial Cables are engineered for extreme heat environments, ensuring reliable signal transmission in industrial and aerospace applications. With robust construction and superior insulation materials, these cables offer exceptional performance and durability at elevated temperatures, meeting the stringent demands of modern technology.
1. Aerospace and Defense
Communications Systems: High-temperature coaxial cables are used in aerospace and defense communications systems, including radar systems, satellite communications, and avionics. They provide reliable signal transmission in environments with extreme temperatures, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference.
Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems: Coaxial cables with high-temperature capabilities are utilized in EW systems for signal processing, radar jamming, and electronic countermeasures. They ensure consistent performance under challenging operating conditions.
2. Industrial Heating and Processing
High-Temperature Furnaces: Coaxial cables are employed in industrial heating applications, such as induction heating and microwave heating systems. They carry RF (radio frequency) signals used for heating and controlling temperature in furnaces and ovens operating at high temperatures.
Plasma Processing: Coaxial cables are used in plasma processing equipment, such as plasma etching and plasma deposition systems, where high temperatures and corrosive environments are present. They enable precise RF power delivery for plasma generation and control.
3. Energy and Power Generation
Nuclear Power Plants: High-temperature coaxial cables are used in instrumentation and control systems within nuclear power plants. They withstand elevated temperatures and radiation exposure while ensuring accurate signal transmission for safety and monitoring applications.
Geothermal Energy Systems: Coaxial cables are utilized in geothermal power generation systems, where they are exposed to high temperatures and thermal cycling. They provide reliable connectivity for data acquisition, monitoring, and control.
4. Automotive and Transportation
Engine and Exhaust Systems: Coaxial cables with high-temperature insulation are used in automotive engine compartments and exhaust systems. They transmit signals for engine control units (ECUs), sensors, and emission control systems, withstanding heat from combustion processes.
Railway and Transportation Infrastructure: High-temperature coaxial cables are employed in railway signaling and communication systems, providing reliable connectivity for train control, passenger information, and trackside equipment exposed to outdoor heat and environmental conditions.
5. Research and Laboratory Equipment
Scientific Instruments: Coaxial cables are integrated into scientific instruments and laboratory equipment used in high-temperature environments, such as material testing rigs, thermal chambers, and vacuum systems. They facilitate signal transmission for data acquisition and measurement.
6. Oil and Gas Industry
Downhole Logging Tools: Coaxial cables are used in downhole logging tools for oil and gas exploration and production. They withstand high temperatures and pressures encountered in oil wells, transmitting data for formation evaluation and reservoir monitoring.
7. Medical Equipment
Medical Imaging Systems: High-temperature coaxial cables are employed in medical imaging systems, such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scanners, where they ensure stable signal transmission under thermal and electromagnetic conditions.
Conductor:
The inner conductor of high temperature coaxial cables is typically made from materials with high electrical conductivity and thermal stability, such as:
Copper: Commonly used for its excellent conductivity and affordability.
Silver-plated Copper: Offers improved corrosion resistance and high conductivity.
Alloyed Conductors: Copper alloys like copper-nickel (Cu-Ni) or copper-silver (Cu-Ag) can enhance strength and conductivity.
Insulation:
The insulation material in high temperature coaxial cables must withstand elevated temperatures without degrading or melting. Common insulation materials include:
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): Known for its high temperature resistance, chemical inertness, and low dielectric constant. Examples include PTFE (Teflon®) and expanded PTFE (ePTFE).
Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP): Offers similar properties to PTFE but with improved flexibility and lower cost.
Polyimide (PI): Provides excellent thermal stability and mechanical strength, suitable for extreme temperature environments.
Silicone Rubber: Offers flexibility and resistance to high temperatures, suitable for moderately high temperature applications.
Shielding:
Shielding in coaxial cables is essential to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). Common shielding materials include:
Copper Braid: Provides effective EMI/RFI shielding and flexibility, suitable for high temperature environments.
Aluminum Foil: Used in combination with a braid for additional shielding effectiveness.
Tinned Copper or Silver Plated Copper: Offers corrosion resistance and enhances shielding performance.
Jacket/Sheath:
The outer jacket or sheath of high temperature coaxial cables provides mechanical protection and insulation. Suitable materials for high temperature applications include:
Fluoropolymers: Such as PTFE, FEP, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK), which offer excellent chemical resistance and high temperature stability.
Silicone Rubber: Provides flexibility and resistance to heat, making it suitable for automotive and industrial applications.
Polyurethane (PUR): Combines flexibility with resistance to abrasion and high temperatures.
Single Conductor Design:
High temperature coaxial cables typically consist of a single inner conductor surrounded by insulation, shielding layers, and an outer jacket.
Multi-Layer Shielding:
Some high temperature coaxial cables may feature multiple layers of shielding (e.g., foil and braid) to achieve optimal EMI/RFI protection in demanding environments.
High Temperature Compatibility:
The selection of materials and construction techniques ensures that high temperature coaxial cables can withstand continuous operating temperatures ranging from 150°C (302°F) up to 1,000°C (1,832°F) or more, depending on the specific design and application.
Customizable Designs:
High temperature coaxial cables can be customized in terms of diameter, impedance, shielding configuration, and connector types to meet specific application requirements in aerospace, automotive, industrial heating, and other industries.
