Citation
(2008), "TMD S band transmitter helps Scottish air traffic control cut CO2", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 80 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2008.12780cab.015
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
TMD S band transmitter helps Scottish air traffic control cut CO2
Article Type: Safety topics and notes From: Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, Volume 80, Issue 3.
TMD Technologies has completed its PTX7602 S band transmitter for delivery to NATS-NSL for the new Kincardine radar installation in Fife. This additional primary radar for Glasgow International airport is being built to avoid interference to air traffic control from the 140 turbines planned for ScottishPower's new wind farm at Whitelee.
As well as helping the wind farm to gain approval to be built, the radar system has another green benefit: TMD's transmitter uses 30 per cent less energy than other designs.
“By making use of our advanced travelling wave tubes, we are able to reduce power consumption considerably compared with solid state devices of a similar type,” said TMD Sales Director Graham H. Brown.
Another advantage of the 40kV PTX7602 is that it uses silicon-based encapsulation for insulation rather than oil in its high-voltage sections. This provides increased safety and convenience for the operator as well as being environmentally friendly.
TMD's extensive experience in the development and manufacture of high- performance transmitters for aerospace applications, where space is at a premium, has resulted in an extremely compact and modular design.
Unlike previous travelling wave tube (TWT)-based systems, the power supply for the new PTX7602 is built up of a series of separate in-service line replacement units combined within a standard 19in. rack.
At the heart of the transmitter is TMD's PT6055 S band TWT which, combining high efficiency, reliability and long life, has proved an outstanding success in Watchman radars world-wide. The PT6055 also offers the advantages of predictable managed power with reliable through life support and reduced total life cycle costs when compared with solid state alternatives.