[TowerTalk] split locks vs star washers

[SavageBR@aol.com]

Both split and star washers are bad about holding moisture and about breaking 
through any surface protection or plating on either or both lugs and 
housings. This enhances corrosion and the failure of the electrical contact.

In the space industry, lock washers are seldom ever used. Generally, a flat 
washer is used. Then the nut is secured with a three point epoxy stake from 
the nut across the washer to the body of the housing. If a screw is installed 
into a threaded hole (no nut), then the screw head is staked at three points 
to the body. 

Note that the epoxy bond area needs to be cleaned prior to staking. Denatured 
alcohol works pretty good. Staking does not use much epoxy. Three spots at 
about 120 degrees, that bridge nicely from the top of the nut or screw head 
to the body, applied with a tooth pick will do the job. Avoid filling the 
screwdriver access on the screw head with epoxy.

Bruce  AA4Z

--
FAQ on WWW:               http://www.contesting.com/FAQ/towertalk
Submissions:              towertalk@contesting.com
Administrative requests:  towertalk-REQUEST@contesting.com
Problems:                 owner-towertalk@contesting.com