1) Stainless steel and aluminum don't get along (galvanic corrosion)
and the SS galls up the threads when over tightened. Galvanized
hardware is by far superior.
2) SS is not strong just resistant to corrosion.
3) The best solution is same metals throughout, aluminum hardware
will hold better and resist corrosion better than dissimilar metals
particularly in a harsh environment.
Randy
AC7NJ
-----Original Message-----
From: towertalk-bounces@contesting.com
[mailto:towertalk-bounces@contesting.com] On Behalf Of kk9a@arrl.net
Sent: Friday, July 18, 2003 18:54
To: TOWERTALK@contesting.com
Subject: [TowerTalk] SS "U" bolts
I am currently building several antennas which will be installed in
a
corrosive environment and I'm looking for bolts to clamp the boom to
the
mast. DX Engineering sells SS "U" bolts along with an aluminum
saddle. I
normally use 4 mast and 4 boom clamps when using 3/8 dia steel "U"
bolts,
however DX Engineering seems to recommend 8 boom and 5 mast clamps
when
using their 5/16 dia "U" bolts. I believe that stainless steel has
less
tensile strength than steel and also using a reduced diameter
concerns me.
Are there any better sources SS "U" bolts that fit 2 1/2" and 3"
O.D.
tubing. I'd also like to hear comments from anyone using the DX
Engineering
bolts.
73,
John
_______________________________________________
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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