What is a Radome?

About Radome:

• A radome is a protective enclosure designed to shield a radar or antenna system from environmental elements without interfering with electromagnetic signal transmission. 
• These enclosures are made of either rigid, self-supporting materials or air-inflated, flexible fabrics. An assortment of shapes exists to match the specific applications. 
• The radome helps to maintain the performance and functionality of the antenna by reducing the impact of environmental factors on the antenna’s signal transmission and reception.
• It is also used to conceal the antenna’s electronic equipment from public view for security purposes. 
• In addition to this, radomes are useful in situations where rotating antennas might accidentally collide with other nearby objects or equipment, resulting in damages.
• It ensures durability and performance efficiency of the antenna it houses.

Fused silica radomes of DMRL:

• Fused silica is the ideal material for radomes because of its exceptional electromagnetic and mechanical properties, along with its ability to withstand sudden temperature changes.
• By effectively mastering cold isostatic pressing (CIP) technology, the DMRL can now produce these crucial components with high success rates and the desired properties.
  • CIP is a technique that involves applying high pressure from all directions to compress powdered materials evenly.
  • This process helps in shaping the material and creating a dense, uniform structure with improved strength and properties.
• DMRL uses CIP technology to compress powdered fused silica, shaping it according to requirements.
  • Through a process called sintering, the material is then transformed into a strong and compact structure.

Key Facts about Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL):

• It is a research laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Location: Hyderabad. 
• DMRL is responsible for the development of advanced metallic and ceramic materials and related processing technologies for various critical defence applications.
• Core competencies of the laboratory are:
  • Product engineering, production support, and performance analysis of metals, alloys, and composites
  • Process development and surface engineering
  • Design and development of speciality alloys, inter-metallics, ceramics, and composites
  • Extractive metallurgy of titanium and magnesium
  • Knowledge base in process-structure-property-performance relationships of advanced materials

Q1: What is a RADAR?

RADAR stands for Radio Detection and Ranging System. It is basically an electromagnetic system used to detect the location and distance of an object from the point where the RADAR is placed. It works by radiating energy into space and monitoring the echo or reflected signal from the objects. It operates in the UHF and microwave range.

Source: Indian defence lab creates tech that will add punch to missiles