For those using "aircraft" control cable or similar stranded galvanized or
stainless steel wire as combined guy wires/top hat loading wires, did you
take any special precautions in attaching to the mast/tower for good
electrical conductivity?
I installed lengths of tinned braid under the guy wire clamps, and attached
these to the tower with burndy connectors, but have discovered some evidence
that the braid/guy wire connections have begun to break down after just a
couple of years. I'm not sure if it is arcing (seems impossible with the
mechanical nature of the connection) or galvanic, but the connections are
not like they were when installed even though protected from the elements.
I cannot use copper wire for these tophat/guy wires as the load would be too
great in the wind/ice conditions we sometimes encounter at this QTH.
"Aircraft cable" was the only choice possible.
Any ideas or opinions about this situation would be appreciated.
Bill, VE3NH
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