Warp knitting technology for large deployable reflector antenna mesh for space applications

Michael Decius, Kees van 't Klooster, Lorenzo Scialino, Marzia Migliorelli, Yves Gloy, T. Gries

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperProfessional

Abstract

Warp knitted metal meshes are used for a variety of applications. In particular wires with low ductility are used for large deployable reflector antennas. Processing cost and demand of materials such as Wolfram or
Molybdenum is due to their favourable material properties. In this paper, processes to warp knit ultrathin tungsten wires are presented with a consideration of increasing the width of the warp knitted product. The
proposed technology permits an increased range of yarn tension in the warp knitting process. A adequate yarn tension is essential for a mesh where the metal wire is not plastically deformed during processing. The technology used in this work is scalable to a width of 5.3 m and suitable for use for up to X band. The main objective of this work is to demonstrate and provide
production technology for metallic mesh generation across Europe.
Translated title of the contributionBrei technologie voor antenne reflektor materiaal voor grote uitvouwbare reflector antennes voor in de ruimtevaart
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages5
Publication statusPublished - 15 Nov 2016
EventEuropean Space Agency 37th Antenna Workshop - ESA Estec, Noordwijk, Netherlands
Duration: 15 Nov 201617 Nov 2016

Workshop

WorkshopEuropean Space Agency 37th Antenna Workshop
Abbreviated titleESA 37th Antenna Workshop
Country/TerritoryNetherlands
CityNoordwijk
Period15/11/1617/11/16

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