Power train overhaul of a 32-meter legacy telecommunications antenna in Mexico

David M. Gale; Stanley E. Kurtz

doi:10.1117/12.2630578

29 August 2022 Power train overhaul of a 32-meter legacy telecommunications antenna in Mexico

David M. Gale, Stanley E. Kurtz

Proceedings Volume 12182, Ground-based and Airborne Telescopes IX; 121822W (2022) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2630578
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2022, Montréal, Québec, Canada

Conference Poster

Abstract

Several universities and government organizations in Mexico are working to rehabilitate a 32-meter telecommunications antenna for radio astronomy teaching and research. The antenna is an elevation-over-azimuth design employing a central king post, and was constructed in 1968. While it was envisioned that the motors and electronic drives would require upgrading, a key concern was the condition of the existing power transmission systems. The main components include overly complex gearboxes, equally extravagant lubrication systems, and assorted bearings that had sat idle for years, if not decades. This paper takes a close look at the power transmission system in azimuth and elevation on this heritage antenna, and describes the maintenance work that has been carried out in order to allow safe operation.

Citation Download Citation

David M. Gale and Stanley E. Kurtz "Power train overhaul of a 32-meter legacy telecommunications antenna in Mexico", Proc. SPIE 12182, Ground-based and Airborne Telescopes IX, 121822W (29 August 2022); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2630578

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