Open or closed edge design options significantly impact how your radome has to be assembled and the level of protection it offers for your valuable antenna equipment. Additionally, it can help to save costs by choosing the right design for your needs.
Open Edge vs. Closed Edge Radomes: Making the Right Choice
When it comes to selecting the right radome design for your application, understanding the difference between open edge and closed edge radome is crucial. Open or closed edge design options significantly impact how your radome has to be assembled and the level of protection it offers for your valuable antenna equipment. Additionally, it can help to save costs by choosing the right design for your needs.
Open Edge Radomes
An “Open Edge” radome keeps the surrounding edge at the foam core uncovered. This means that the radome is not entirely sealed along its edges. While open-edge radomes are cost-efficient, they are best suited for applications where complete sealing at harsh environments isn’t the top priority. The selection of suitable core materials that do not absorb moisture is important, and the required stability for the radome is another important aspect since the open edge design has a lower stability than the closed edge design. Nevertheless, by smart integration into the antenna housing, an open edge radome can be the right choice even for humid environments.
Closed Edge Radomes
In contrast, “Closed Edge” radomes provide a robust solution with complete sealing around the entire perimeter. This radome design ensures that water, and environmental factors are not in contact with the foam core. This avoids fungus and abrasion at outdoor applications where equipment must remain fully protected from harsh environmental conditions. Another benefit of the closed edge design is the higher stability of the radome itself and in addition, the closed edge design can function as a mounting solution to the antenna housing.
Choosing the Right Edge Option:
The selection between open edge and closed edge radomes depends on your specific application. If your equipment operates in controlled environments and sealing isn’t a primary concern, open-edge radomes offer customization options and cost savings. However, in scenarios where uninterrupted functionality is paramount, such as satellite communication or security operations, closed-edge radomes are the clear choice. They provide the highest level of protection and stability, ensuring your equipment to perform reliable. Carefully assessing your application’s needs will guide you in making the right edge option selection for your radome.