Case Study

British Antarctic Survey

National Environment Research Council

Sector:

Antennas

Region:

UK/Antarctic

We can make it possible

Chat to us

British Antarctic Survey

British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). Based in Cambridge in the UK, it has undertaken the majority of Britain's scientific research on and around the Antarctic continent for over 60 years.

The project

In 2012 BAS advised us they needed strong yet lightweight antennas for use in their operations in Antarctica.

The Ormiston solution

Ormiston already has significant expertise as a manufacturer and supplier of Kevlar antenna braid. As such, we are a significant supplier to the military for various applications.

Recognising that the Antarctic presents particular challenges, we specified, designed and manufactured an antenna that would be lightweight but also robust enough to withstand the conditions. This comprised a cross sectional area (CSA) of tinned copper, over a Kevlar core, with a red PVC coating to provide insulation in extreme low temperatures.

The outcome

Successful testing of a prototype length of the antenna manufactured in our Isleworth factory exceeded anticipated strength and performance tolerances. We were consequently commissioned to complete the order.