Attempt of the metallic 3D printing technology for millimeter-wave antenna implementations

Abstract

3D metallic printing technology is attempted to implement millimeter-wave (mmWave) antennas. Based on laser beam melting (LBM) technology, the cost and turnaround time of metallic horn antenna fabrication is effectively reduced compared with traditional milling and injection moulding. A conical and a pyramidal horn antenna are printed in 316L stainless steel, both of which demonstrate satisfactory performance compared with simulation, as well as comparable performance with commercial horn antennas. Surface roughness of the printed horn antennas are measured and analyzed, showing improvement upon former designs. The 3D printing technology proves its great potential for further exploration.