In a message dated 11/6/03 8:32:44 AM Pacific Standard Time,
KC7VDA@keepandbeararms.com writes:
> I have a serious problem with a Cushcraft C8 antenna. There seems to be a
> dark non-conductive oxide that formes between some of the aluminum
sections,
> which resultes in the antenna not working on some of the bands.
> My question is , does anyone know of a protective conductive "grease"
that
> will prevent this oxidation from forming ?
> And of course, where can I get it ?
Yep, that's aluminum oxide. Any aluminum joint should have an
anti-oxidant on it (also copper joints). Home Depot carries NoAlOx (No Aluminum
Oxide) in
my area.
There are about a dozen or so of anti-oxidant recipes such as Penetrox,
Ox-Gard, etc. Antenna manufacturers have some of their own like the paste from
M2, Butter It's Not from Butternut, Mosley has some, etc.
There are two components of an anti-oxidant - conductive particles and a
vehicle material. The anti-oxidant is not conductive but the particles pierce
the oxidized layer when it's under compression.
Cheers,
Steve K7LXC
TOWER TECH -
Professional tower services for commercial and amateur
888-833-3104
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See: http://www.mscomputer.com for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather
Stations", and lot's more. Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions
and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.
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