RF Absorber Replacement

The existing radiofrequency absorber material inside the anechoic chamber consists of mostly industry standard 18-inch high polyurethane foam pyramidal cones. The absorbers are over 25 years old and showing obvious signs of damage due to normal wear, which is degrading their radiofrequency absorbing ability. The existing absorber has reached the end of its useful life cycle and must be replaced in order to support the continued use of the chamber.

The anechoic chamber is an electromagnetically shielded room in which laboratory measurements are performed on radiofrequency equipment above 1 GHz. The shield-to-shield inner dimensions of the chamber are approximately 8.5m x 4.5m x 2.8m. The walls, floor, and ceiling of the chamber are lined with engineered material that absorbs radiofrequency energy to provide an electromagnetically quiet environment. The existing absorber on the walls and ceiling are attached using a clip-and-rail system whereas the absorbers on the floor are simply laid down and are unsecured. In addition to the 18-inch pyramidal cones, additional specialized absorber material is required inside the chamber to cover air vents, provide walkway platforms, and line the machinery and support structures.