How are Aptek’s DI-STRATE dielectric substrates different from standard teflon-based substrates offered by other suppliers?
Aptek custom tunes and formulates the substrate to the desired dielectric constant and any other physical parameters as dictated by the microwaves/antenna engineers, whereas competitive substrates usually possess a 2.05 dielectric constant typical of teflon. Also, teflon-based substrates are difficult to machine and adhere to. For example, DISTRATE 1500-1 was specifically designed for the Iridium main mission antenna for the 66-satellite Constellation currently circling the Earth. Not only were these tuned to the required narrow band dielectric constant, but these tiles had to be extremely lightweight, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and pass the stringent NASA outgassing requirements of ASTM E-595. For further information, check out the various DI-STRATES available under the Products link of our website.
