Topband: Control cable black conductors

[n0tt1 at juno.com]

> Moisture has gotten to the copper. I've heard white vinegar may 
> work.  Its cheap...give it a try
> 
Guys, if you use the vinegar or other cleaners, but sure to clean if off
with water after it's done it's job.  Also, don't let it wick up into the

insulation.  Spreading the strands and wiping each with a cotton
swab or rag will help prevent that.
 
Charlie, N0TT
 
> Carl AG6X
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Topband [mailto:topband-bounces at contesting.com] On Behalf Of 
> Andy Ikin
> Sent: Saturday, February 22, 2014 3:10 AM
> To: Dave G4GED; Topband Reflector
> Subject: Re: Topband: Control cable black conductors
> 
> Dave G4GED Wrote on Feb. 22nd.
> 
> 
> "Hi and thanks for reading.
> 
> I'm trying to splice a damaged (rodents) RX ant control cable.
> It has 7 insulated, stranded copper conductors all inside a PVC 
> jacket.
> Problem is, when stripped of their insulation, 3 (black, brown and
> green), of the copper conductors have become coated in a black film? 
> So
> to effect jointing and soldering, require cleaning.
> I've tried IPA 170 and several contact cleaners but none remove it.
> So far, only Emery Cloth will do the job but it's very difficult to
> clean each strand without breaking some and therefore weakening the 
> joint.
> All the other 4 conductors are bright clean copper when stripped.
> Could anyone tell me why some insulated copper conductors turn black 
> in
> this way and whether there's a better way of cleaning it off."
> 
> 
> Dave,  maybe you could try dilute sulphuric acid or lime scale 
> remover 
> VIAKAL. The black residue on the copper is probably copper oxide.
> 
> If you end up replacing the cable run then use tined copper 
> conductors.
> 
> 73
> 
> Andrew G8LUG
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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