You read it correctly.
Here at work we're having an emergency AM radio xmitter installed. The
system is going to use a 49ft helical antenna tuned to 1700Khz. (10
watts erp).
The radio engineers say we need to install a 40ft ground rod to improve
overall performance of the antenna system. The ground rod is a product of
Lyncole (see their web page "http://www.lyncole.com/products.asp";).
I've always thought and been taught that radials are what AM broadcast
station antennas rely upon to improve efficency, etc. So, tell me again
why we need this 40 ft ground rod? In addition to having the well
driller punch an 8" hole for this 4"X 40' copper pipe we're supposed to
mix up a slurry of something called Lynconite II Backfill. Lynconite
II is used as a backfill to surround the XIT systems during
installation. It is based on natural clay formed by volcanic action.
Specially processed to be very electrically conductive, Lynconite II
enhances the performance of the grounding system. It is mixed with water
(14gals./50lb bag) until a slurry is formed (similar to pancake batter)
and pumped or poured around the electrode in the hole.
I know there is going to be a small radial system for this antenna but
it's really not going to amount to much due to available land
restrictions. I'm interested in hearing ideas and thoughts with regard
to the theory/reasoning/logic/old wives tales that surround this concept
of deeper is better. Over the years I've listened to fellas talking
about using their well casings as ground rods but never gave it much
thought. I've always used multiple 10ft ground rods spread out like a
grid (three, then six, then twelve).
73,
dave
wa3gin
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