Electromagnetic and bandwidth performance optimization of new waveguide polarizers with septum of a stepped-thickness type for satellite systems

Abstract

Development and optimization of new waveguide polarizers with conducting stepped-thickness septum were performed in the article. Matching and polarization performance of novel microwave devices were accurately modelled using numerical finite elements method. An experimental prototype of the developed waveguide polarization converter with the suggested configuration of a septum was manufactured and measured. It was demonstrated that the application of a stepped-thickness conducting septum with 3 sections instead of a constant-thickness conducting septum improves return losses and cross-polarization isolation of the square waveguide polarization converter by 5 and 7 dB, respectively. In addition, measured cross-polarization isolation of the developed septum waveguide polarizer in an assembled antenna feed network is > 30 dB. Therefore, designed compact stepped-thickness septum polarization converter can be effectively applied in modern dual-polarization antenna systems for satellite communications and radar appliances.