Teflon dielectric is good.
The dielectric in a connector such as the PL-259 type does not need
mechanical rigidity.
Teflon has better dielectric and break down characteristics as an insulator
in a connector than just about any other material. Teflon is impervious to
moisture while phenolic will absorb moisture. Teflon will not track as
readily or as badly under the same conditions as phenolic. It melts at 327
C and is not considered hazardous in solid form.
Teflon cold flows. So what? It actually does so rather rapidly under
pressure, but it's not under pressure in a PL-259 and is probably the best
insulating material you will find for that use.
MSDS http://ptcl.chem.ox.ac.uk/MSDS/PO/polytetrafluoroethylene.html
>
>>I'd stay away from the Amphenol "RFX" PL-259s, which can be found with a
>>Teflon dielectric
>
> ------------ REPLY FOLLOWS ------------
>
> I agree. Teflon has a nasty characteristic called "cold flow" which
> means it will deform over a period of time due to simple mechanical
> pressure. While I have not personally heard of this causing a problem
It doesn't.
> in coax connectors, I don't believe the other benefits of Teflon
They do.
> outweigh the risk. Ordinary phenolic has been used for decades with no
> problem at amateur power levels.
>
> This is not one of those "sky is falling" kind of warnings. If you
> choose Teflon it will probably work ok. Just be aware.
Teflon is probably the best material you will find for the insulating
material in a PL-259.
Roger Halstead (K8RI and ARRL 40 year Life Member)
N833R - World's oldest Debonair CD-2
www.rogerhalstead.com
>
> Bill, W6WRT
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