Topband: Beverage transformer enclosures

[Eddy Swynar]

> On 11/11/2011 9:11 AM, Paul DeWitte wrote:
>> What do you use for transformer enclosures?
>> 
>> The ones that I have been using did not stand up. Just curious what others
>> use.

Hi Paul, 

Here in THe Great White North of Canada I've used two types of "el-cheapo" enclosures quite successfully, i.e.:

(1) Metal cookie tins (the British ones seem to be best, and their contents are tasty!)---just remember to apply a LIGHT application of petroleum jelly where the lid contacts the main body to guard against seizure from rust, and,

(2) The large Folgers-brand plastic percolated coffee holders (i.e. the red ones, with the black tops).

In order to keep moisture out, I drill one or two small holes at the bottoms of the cookie tins. For the Folgers containers I drill a small hole in the lid that's large enough to accommodate a plastic corrugated drinking straw. I then insert a short (2") length of straw through he hole, seal it to the lid with silicone, then bend the corrugated part so that the straw bends down upon itself. This allows the contents to "breathe", preventing condensate build-up, and the bend in the straw keeps snow & rain out...

One last thing that I do to absorb any residual moisture that might get inside during the long winter months is place a couple of tea bags inside each enclosure. I used to pour in a handful of rice, but some critter sensed its presence & repeatedly broke into the enclosures in order to eat my absorbant!

~73~ de Eddy VE3CUI - VE3XZ