RF rotary joint
RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint
RF rotary joints that carry microwave signals across rotation for antennas and radar, with one to five channels. Single-channel models run to 50 GHz.
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What are you specifying?
Select everything you need. A motor, drive and gearbox can be specified together as one axis.
Key specifications
| Speed (max) | 500 rpm |
|---|---|
| Temperature | -45–80 °C |
| Rated life (revolutions) | 10,000,000 |
| Power (max) | 2,000 W |
| Channels (max) | 5 |
| RF frequency (max) | 50 GHz |
Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.
Options
- aluminium, stainless or brass housing
- DC-18GHz / DC-40GHz / DC-50GHz models
What a RF rotary joint is
An RF rotary joint passes radio-frequency or microwave signals across a rotating interface, typically for antennas and radar. Coaxial designs use a concentric inner and outer conductor that rotate relative to each other, keeping a controlled impedance, usually 50 ohms, through the joint. Waveguide designs handle higher power at microwave frequencies. Multi-channel joints stack several channels coaxially, and many can be combined with an electrical slip ring for power and control circuits.
When engineers choose a RF rotary joint
Choose an RF rotary joint when the rotating part carries an antenna, transmitter or receiver whose signal must stay at RF rather than being converted to data first. It is standard on radar pedestals, satellite antenna positioners and communications masts. The trade-offs are frequency, power and channel count: higher frequencies and more channels make the joint harder to build. Where the signal can be digitised on the rotor, an Ethernet or fibre channel may be simpler.
How to specify the RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint variant:
- Frequency range (GHz)
- Number of channels
- Average and peak power (W)
- VSWR and insertion loss, including variation with rotation (dB)
- Isolation between channels (dB)
- Connector types, such as SMA, N or TNC, or waveguide flange
- Speed (rpm) and any electrical slip ring circuits to integrate
Common mistakes to avoid
- Specifying insertion loss but not its variation, or wow, during rotation
- Underestimating peak power for pulsed radar
- Choosing connectors that do not suit the frequency range
- Leaving channel isolation undefined in multi-channel joints
Typical applications
RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint: frequently asked questions
Can you help replace RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint or source the original?
Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including supply-network options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.
What is the RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint?
RF rotary joints that carry microwave signals across rotation for antennas and radar, with one to five channels. Single-channel models run to 50 GHz. Published series figures include speed 500 rpm, temperature -45 °C, temperature 80 °C, rated life (revolutions) 10,000,000. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.
Who makes the RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint?
The RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint is part of a range available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.
What is the speed of the RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint?
The published series maximum speed is 500 rpm. Individual models and sizes in the RR Series Radio Frequency Rotary Joint range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
What is VSWR in an RF rotary joint?
Voltage standing wave ratio measures how well the joint matches the line impedance, usually 50 ohms. A value of 1:1 means a perfect match, and higher values mean more signal is reflected. For a rotary joint, the maximum VSWR across the frequency band and its variation during rotation both matter, so ask for both figures on the datasheet.
Can an RF rotary joint be combined with a power slip ring?
Yes. The RF channel usually sits on the axis, with an electrical slip ring arranged around it for power, control and data circuits. This is common on radar and antenna pedestals. Specify both together, including frequencies, power levels and electrical circuits, so the supplier can manage isolation and the overall envelope.
Further reading: How to select a slip ring · Slip rings
Often compared with
Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:
Other rf rotary joint series
Engineer support
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How it works
From enquiry to delivery
Send a part number or describe the application. Our engineers take it from there: the right product, a clear quotation, and delivery and support arranged.
- 01Tell us what you needSend a part number, or configure the application, quantities and timing.
- 02An engineer reviews itWe check the specification and find the original part, a checked equivalent or a complete axis.
- 03Receive your quotationProducts, pricing, lead time and compatibility notes in one reply.
- 04Order and deliveryWhen you are happy, the order is placed and delivery and after-sales support are arranged.