A multiphysics investigation of RF dry loads

Abstract

Microwave absorbers/loads find applications in many microwave systems where they are utilised in testing or protection circuits. In many waveguide based systems, often lossy dielectrics are used as absorbers. Efficient thermal management of the heat generated in the dielectric is crucial for the functioning of the load. As such the design of a load is a multiphysics problem involving RF, thermal and in some cases fluid flow analysis. In this paper, different structures of low power loads are analysed for their RF and thermal characteristics and behaviour. These loads are designed for 3.7 GHz and simulated in COMSOL Multiphysics.