[TowerTalk] Aluminum Wire for Radials

[Dennis W0JX]

I have used a combination of copper and aluminum wire for radials over the past several years. Without question, the copper wire resists corrosion much better and lasts for years regardless of its size, cover or whether it is solid and stranded.
   
  I would not rule out using aluminum wire, depending upon your time horizon and soil composition. What I have discovered is that my aluminum wire if laid on top of short grass
  seems to be unaffected by corrosion. However, any of the aluminum wire that I bury for radials seems to turn to powder in less than three years. So it is the contact with the soil and moisture in the soil that destroys it.
   
  Incidentally, you can get very strong #14 aluminum wire made by Hi-Shock at many Farm and Fleet or TSC stores. Only $29.95 for 1,320 feet (1/4 mile).
   
  73, Dennis W0JX/8

 
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