Microwave Cable Ruggedization Options
GORE™ Ruggedized Assemblies extend assembly life in harsh environments. There are four standard ruggedization series available. Each series provides unique physical and environmental characteristics.
Cable cores are similar to those used in our basic cable types. Therefore, extremely low insertion loss is retained, and the guaranteed maximum insertion loss data applies.
The Flexibility vs. Concentrated Load Resistance graph shows a comparison of bending force versus crush resistance for the four standard ruggedization series; it includes the basic, non-ruggedized assemblies for reference purposes. Use this graph for help in balancing the trade-off between ruggedness and flexibility.
Within each ruggedization series, the following information is provided:
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The part number prefix for the ruggedized assembly type
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The assembly type to reference for typical and guaranteed maximum insertion loss and connector availability
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Nominal cable diameters and weights
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Minimum bend-radius information
You can select most of the connectors listed for basic cable types for ruggedized cable.
Some applications may require custom-ruggedized assemblies. For example, only a portion of the assembly may need to be ruggedized, or two types of ruggedization may be needed on the same assembly.
T Series
In T-series ruggedization, a thicker-than-normal jacket provides increased crush and abrasion resistance compared to our basic cable types, while also offering the lowest size, weight, and flexibility penalty. Connector pull strength and resistance to torque are the same as those of our basic assemblies.
T-series ruggedization is often used when the assemblies are to be bundled and clamped in place with other wiring (or when chafing may be a problem), and when size and/or weight are a concern.
T series is available with electrical performance characteristics similar to our basic G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, GD, and 2Z cable types.
The standard minimum assembly length for a T-series cable is six inches. If a shorter assembly length is required, please contact W. L. Gore & Associates.
CP Series
CP-series cables are internally ruggedized by adding protective devices around the basic cable. The protective devices include a corrosion-resistant steel spring, a second metallic braid, and an extruded second jacket. This combination provides superior crush resistance, resistance to connector torsion loads, superior abrasion resistance, and high connector-pull strength.
CP-series ruggedization is ideally suited for applications where a ruggedized mechanical design is desirable, but added weight and a larger cable diameter are of little concern. This type of ruggedized assembly is often used for test purposes. The CP construction is available with electrical performance similar to our basic G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, and G6 cable types.
For high-frequency applications, cable types 37 and 39 are available to 26.5 GHz. Also, cable types 6D and 6Z are available to 40 and 50 GHz, respectively.
The standard minimum assembly length for CP-series cables is 12 inches. If a shorter assembly length is required, please contact W. L Gore & Associates.
Mini-CP Series
Mini-CP series ruggedization is a variant of the CP series. Instead of an extruded jacket, the Mini-CP construction uses an outer binder and a proprietary braid material for the external jacket.
The fiber braid improves flexibility and enables the assembly to operate over a wide temperature range. It is lightweight, exceptionally abrasion-resistant, and chemically inert. It decompresses rapidly when subjected to vacuum, after which the ruggedization is non-outgassing.
The Mini-CP series cable offers an exceptional level of flexibility and crush protection for a given cable diameter. This feature is most pronounced in the larger cable diameters. Available with electrical performance similar to our basic G2, G3, G5, G6, and 8W cable types, this construction retains flexibility approaching that of our basic assemblies.
We also offer precision phase with flexure assemblies, and extended frequency versions are available to 50 GHz.
Mini-CP is the preferred ruggedization for temperature chamber feed-through assemblies, airframe applications, and light-duty test applications.
The standard minimum assembly length for a Mini-CP Series cable is 12 inches. If a shorter assembly is required, please contact W. L Gore & Associates.
A Series
A-series ruggedization assemblies are armored against physical abuse. This series of ruggedization offers a high level of protection at the sacrifice of size and weight.
A-series ruggedization consists of stainless-steel flexible conduit that can withstand compression force of 800 pounds per linear inch. Cable bend radius is limited, but flexibility is retained.
Armored assemblies are used for applications where severe cable pinching or crushing is likely, and for applications that require an automatic limitation of bend radius. It is not recommended for use near live circuits. This series is available with electrical performance similar to our basic G2/G7, G3, G5/G9 and G6 cable types.
The standard minimum assembly length for an A-series cable is 24 inches. If a shorter assembly is required, please contact W. L Gore & Associates.
GORE-FLIGHT® Cable
GORE-FLIGHT® cable is designed specifically for airframe applications. The internally ruggedized cable is crushproof withstanding concentrated loads well in excess of those required by MIL-T-81490, thus allowing easier handling during installation and reducing likelihood of inadvertent crushing in service. The cable remains extremely flexible due to the overall cable design. GORE-FLIGHT® cable's inherent lack of "memory" and resistance to overbending greatly improve ease of installation for airframe integrators. This increases first time installation yields while reducing post-install test time by up to 75% over competitive products.
Standard minimum assembly length for a GORE-FLIGHT® cable is 12 inches. If a shorter assembly length is required, please contact Gore.