It seems to me that if radial wires are required to carry the antennas
return RF current we might be concerned about the skin depth of the
radial conductors. It also seems to me that if we can keep the surface
of the radial wire pristine clean copper by protecting them from corrosion
with insulation we will be protecting and maintaining the current carrying
ability within the skin depth of the wire. I believe copper oxide, sulphates,
and so forth are semiconductors at best.
I use magnet wire for radials that has a high temperature rating for
motor winding. I have dug up some of the wire after 15 years and found
the wire to as good looking as new. Sure makes me feel better about the
wires ability to carry RF current.
The problem as I see it is any deterioration would be so slow it would
be hard to see or prove in all but the worst soils.
My vote is for insulated radial wire.
Lee K7TJR OR
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160 meters is a serious band, it should be treated with respect. - TF4M
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