Abstract: Provided are apparatus and methods for providing thermal management for RF transparent systems. In particular, a layered composite is provided that includes a first thermally conductive and RF transparent layer along with a second RF transparent system structural layer. The system also includes an attached heat sink(s) to reduce the effective operating temperature of the underlying materials in the RF transparent system such as the thermally conductive layer. Accordingly, the use of this thermal management system allows for the use of more conventional, lower-temperature RF transparent system materials in subsequent layers. Additionally, reducing the operating temperature with the thermally conductive layer and heat sink improves the RF transparency in the RF transparent system.

Abstract: Provided are apparatus and methods for providing thermal management for RF transparent systems. In particular, a layered composite is provided that includes a first thermally conductive and RF transparent layer along with a second RF transparent system structural layer. The system also includes an attached heat sink(s) to reduce the effective operating temperature of the underlying materials in the RF transparent system such as the thermally conductive layer. Accordingly, the use of this thermal management system allows for the use of more conventional, lower-temperature RF transparent system materials in subsequent layers. Additionally, reducing the operating temperature with the thermally conductive layer and heat sink improves the RF transparency in the RF transparent system.