Crescend Technologies’ cutting-edge, solid-state high-power RF microwave technology delivers unparalleled precision, frequency agility, and reliability across a range of industrial applications.
Unlike traditional magnetron systems, Crescend’s solid-state systems allow customizable power and frequency adjustments, increases throughput quality, quantity and control like never before while reducing total cost of ownership.
With extended operational lifetimes, lower maintenance requirements, and reduced downtime, Crescend offers a sustainable and innovative alternative for industries seeking to decarbonize, optimize process control, and improve overall operational efficiency.
Pioneering the Future of Solid-State High-Power RF Energy
For over three decades, Crescend has led the field in solid-state microwave technology. Their commitment to quality and innovation makes us the choice for clients who need reliable, high-performance RF solutions in industrial settings.
Solid State Products
Crescend Technologies delivers high-performance solid-state microwave solutions that revolutionize industrial processing.
Why Solid State?
PrecisePower™
Designed for industries that require precision, Crescend’s advanced software ensures frequency stability and unmatched adaptability.
Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Crescend Technologies solid-state microwave generators?
For over three decades, Crescend has led the field in solid-state microwave technology. Our commitment to quality and innovation makes us the choice for clients who need reliable, high-performance RF solutions in industrial settings.
Can Crescend's microwave systems be customized for specific industrial applications?
Yes. Our expert engineers work closely with your team to tailor the system to your specific industrial needs, whether it’s precision heating, drying, or other applications. Our PrecisePower™ software gives you the capability to precisely control the system to adapt seamlessly to unique materials, processes, and goals—helping you achieve unmatched effectiveness, control and performance.
What range of power outputs does Crescend offer in its solid-state microwave systems?
How does solid-state microwave technology help with decarbonization and sustainability goals?
Solid-state microwave is a 100% electric system with no emissions. Since they are electric powered, energy can be from renewable sources and sourced locally. Its precision minimizes wasted energy, and the modular design supports energy efficiency at all scales. By using solid-state systems, businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while increasing operational efficiency—a win for both sustainability and profitability.
What is the expected lifespan of Crescend's solid-state microwave systems compared to magnetron alternatives?
How scalable are Crescend’s systems for different production capacities?
Crescend’s systems are built for ultimate scalability. Whether you’re looking to process a few hundred pounds per hour or scale up to thousands, our modular design allows for seamless expansion. You can start with a pilot-scale system with the PTL-2.5 and easily transition to full-scale production without reconfiguring your operations, ensuring your investment grows alongside your needs.
What types of industries and applications can benefit the most from solid-state microwave technology?
What support services does Crescend provide after installation, and are there options for maintenance and upgrades?
Crescend stands by you long after installation. Our post-commissioning support includes remote diagnostics, technical troubleshooting, firmware and software updates, and scheduled maintenance plans.
How do I get more information/What is the next step?
Reach out to our team today for a personalized consultation. We’ll guide you through our proven Microwave Solution Success Journey that helps ensure a success microwave solution implementation.
The Power of Solid-State Microwave Technology
Magnetron | Solid State | Maximum Power Per Unit | 75 or 100 kW, outputs cannot be combined | 50 kW, outputs can be combined |
|---|---|---|
Operating frequencies | Fixed at 896, 915, or 922 MH | Frequency agile from 896-928 MHz |
Power control range | 30-90 kW or 20-75 kW | 0-50 kW |
Power on/off or change power level | 2-10 seconds | Very fast, 100ms or less |
Warm-up or cool down time | 10 minutes | Zero |
Power control accuracy | +/- 1 kw | +/ – 100 watts |
Automatic Load Tuning | No | Yes, in development |
Adaptive power control | No | Yes |
Automatic Load Tuning | No | Yes, in development |
Power and frequency stability | Moderate | Very high |
Reliability | Moderate | Very High |
Fault tolerant | No | Yes |
Power element lifetime | About 6000 hrs.; warranty 3000 hrs. | 500,000+ hrs. |
Serviceability | Moderate | Very High |
Typical Power conversion efficiency | 70% | 55% |
External control interface | PLC | PLC or computer via Ethernet |
Pulse mode operation | No | Yes |
Remote diagnostic capability | Yes | Yes |
Cooling | Water cooled | Water cooled |
Reflected power protection | Internal or external circulator | Internal circulators and adaptive power control |
Frequency Agility
Through sweeping frequency during operation, hot and cold spots within the applicator are redistributed, resulting in significantly improved heating uniformity.
Precise power control
Solid-state generators provide complete control over output power, frequency, and phase, with rapid response times. They seamlessly integrate with PLC or plant DCS control systems, facilitating easy operation. In contrast, magnetron power control is slow and has limited stable power range.
Software Offering
The PrecisePower™ Windows-based software suite offers a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for controlling and evaluating your entire application system, from the generator to the load.
Longer Transistor Lifetimes
Solid-state microwave generators exhibit superior reliability and serviceability compared to, for example, magnetron-based microwave systems. Were output power of a magnetron decreasing as it ages, solid-state generators utilize transistors with lifespans in the hundreds of thousands of hours maintaining power over the lifetime of the generator.
System Scalability
Unlike magnetrons, solid-state generator outputs can be easily combined to deliver high power levels through a single waveguide feed.
Patented PrecisePower™ Software
Designed for industries that require precision, Crescend’s advanced software ensures frequency stability and unmatched adaptability. With the ability to match frequencies to specific process needs, this technology optimizes energy absorption, delivering consistent, high-quality results across applications.
Features
- Frequency Agility
- Load Analyzer
- Adaptive Mode
- Band Mapping
- Patented High-Speed Arc Control and Detection System
Customer Benefits
- Faster, More Efficient Use of Power, and More Effective
Results - User Defined Unique Conditions to Gain Variety of Data
Points - Arc Control Provides User and Equipment Safety
Built-in Scalar Network Analyzer
All hardware running PrecisePower™ is equipped with an internal precision dual directional coupler and high speed/ high resolution/high accuracy RF power detectors which measure forward and reflected power in real time.
Adaptive Control
- Power will automatically increase back to original setting when match improves
- System will automatically lower power output when high reflected power occurs
- Output power decreases proportionally when the adaptive return loss limit is exceeded
- System automatically adjusts to changing load and condtions
Frequency Sweep
Dielectric properties of some materials vary with frequency and temperature. Frequencies where the best matches occur may vary during operation due to changes in the load such as:
- Mass
- Temperature available operating modes
- Phase change
- Moisture content
- Pressure, etc.
- Electronic Stirring
Arcing can be a safety issue and cause serious damage to equipment. It must be detected and prevented instantaneously to prevent potential harm.
Hyper-Fast Arc Detection and Prevention
Crescend's patented high speed arc detection and control system:
- Much faster than magnetron-based systems
- When configured correctly, reduce power in microseconds (.000001s)
- Quicker response means less damage due to arcing
- Can be configured to re-try full power quickly or after user defined period
Precision & Power for Diverse Applications
Crescend’s high-power, solid-state microwave generators serve a wide range of industrial applications:
Academia
For colleges, universities, government and other entities that wish to test and provide proof of concept in the applications of microwave energy.
Material Drying
Maximize throughput and efficiency in drying processes.
Carbon Nanotube Growth
Support uniform, scalable nanotube production for advanced applications.
Coal to Liquid
Facilitate clean, efficient coal conversion to liquid fuels.
Diamond Growth
Enable stable, reliable microwave plasma generation.
Food Processing
Achieve precise moisture reduction and uniform product quality.
Hydrogen Reforming
Enable efficient hydrogen production, reducing dependency on traditional fuels.
Medical/Industrial Waste Disposal
Safely sterilize and reduce waste with high-energy microwave treatment.
Microwave Assisted Thermal Sterilization/Pasteurization
Maintain food safety and quality with rapid thermal processing.
Microwave Chemical Vapor Deposition (MW-CVD)
Ensure consistent deposition rates and high-purity coatings.
Microwave Plasma Generation
Achieve high-efficiency plasma generation with superior energy control.
Microwave Pyrolysis
Transform organic materials into valuable gases and biochar efficiently.
RF Heating
Deliver precise, uniform heating for sensitive materials, enhancing quality control.
Semiconductor Processing Equipment
Support cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing with precise temperature control.
Syngas Generation
Improve synthesis gas production with controlled, solid-state microwave energy.
Tempering/Annealing
Optimize material strength and flexibility through precision thermal processing.
Waste Recycling
Enhance waste processing with energy-efficient microwave-assisted breakdown.
