Topband: Aluminum radials?

[Merv Schweigert]

> Ken, K4XL wrote:
>
>  I'm fresh out of scraps of copper wire
> for radials and am considering 
>   
>> using aluminum electric fence
>>     
> wire. The other galvanized electric fence 
>   
>> wire rusts away in a
>>     
> couple of seasons. Anyone else using the aluminum 
>   
>> stuff? I've
>>     
> seen it in 1/2 mile rolls for about $45 via the 
>   
> internet...maybe cheaper at the local farm store. 
>   
>> 73, 
>> Ken K4XL 
>> k4xl at arrl.net 
>>     
>
> Ken,
> etc., 
>
> Aluminum is much more chemically active than zinc
> (galvanizing).  Usually the minerals in soils accelerate
> corrosion.
> GL & 73
> George  K8GG
>   
Correct George,  back in ILL soil some aluminum radials that I had buried
lasted about 2 years,  when checked they were white powder. 
Here in KH6 its a recipe for disaster in a couple weeks. 
I have a HF2V that turns to powder and has to be rebuilt about every 6 
months,
while Aluminum irrigation pipe with a good coat of red Molokai soil 
lasts for
years and years.  So it has to do with the type of aluminum alloy for 
sure also.
73 Merv KH7C
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