Simulation of the electromagnetic wave propagation in a rectangular waveguide

R Soegeng
Department of Physics, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia

Abstract

A transmission line of a given shape may not be a very efficient way of transmitting power or signals from one point to another. For example two parallel wires radiate energy and there are heating losses in the wires. A coaxial cable with the outer cylinder earthed produces no fields outside, but there remain the energy losses due to resistive heating of the conductors, chiefly the inner one where the fields are largest. The most efficient way of transmitting energy over short distances of wavelength in the range from a few millimetres to about one metre is by using a waveguide. This is a hollow metal conductor whose cross-section is of simple and constant shape. For example, radar waves are usually generated in an area near the deck of a ship where they can be controlled, and are carried to the antenna on the top of the ship's mast with waveguides.

This paper discusses simulations of electromagnetic wave propagation in the rectangular waveguides that are most commonly used. The main purpose of this discussion is to show the properties of electromagnetic waves in a waveguide. The discussion stresses visualization of the waves which aids student understanding of the behaviour of waves in a waveguide. The discussion is also limited to an ideal waveguide, where there is no loss of energy of the waves. This is true if the walls of the waveguide are perfect reflectors for the waves and the waveguide is relatively short.

The discussion begins with the propagation of electromagnetic waves between two parallel plates, as a simple waveguide. Then discusses the propagation of electromagnetic waves in a rectangular waveguide. The visualization shows how the dimensions of the waveguide influence the waves.

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