[TowerTalk] Ice, Wind and Antennas

[Stan Stockton]

I thought I would share some information regarding a special paint I have been using for a couple of years.  It is Wearlon Super F1, icephobic paint.  

It is made specifically so that ice will not build up on the surface.  My experience is that although I did not do the very best job of applying the paint, it works well.   It has a high content of silicone.  If ice starts to form, it slides off pretty quickly.

The elements and the end pieces of the boom for my 40M yagi are painted with this stuff and this antenna accumulates very little ice as compared to the rest of the yagi antennas.  Although my antennas are all designed to take well over an inch of radial ice without trusses and wind, all it takes is an inch of radial ice and a 60 MPH wind and there are few antennas that will survive.  

The Wearlon Super F1 costs $189.00 per gallon and a gallon would supposedly cover 220 SF (with no overspray).  I'll answer any questions about it as best I can but if you are interested in buying some, you should call Nick Patenaude at Ecological Coatings in Clifton Park, NY.  His number is 518-664-3468.  He is a distributor and is very helpful.  

Stan, K5GO
www.k5go.com