[TowerTalk] 5. Re: Making an 80 meter vertical from Rohn 25

[jimlux]

Art wrote:
> Can someonw please enlighten me, what is HPDE?
> 

High Density PolyEthylene
aka Poor Man's Teflon(r) (PTFE)

Very low friction coefficient (not as low as PTFE), also melts at a 
lower temperature.

You'll also see UHMW PE (Ultra High Molecular Weight).

It's great stuff. Excellent dielectric properties, easy to machine (if 
you have *sharp* tools), works great as a bearing material for low 
speeds (e.g. mast bearing).  Very inexpensive (cutting boards are the 
most popular hobbyist source).  It's used a lot in homebuilt HV stuff 
where the lack of mechanical strength isn't a big deal.

Don't use it in a bending application (it's fairly flexible, and does 
flow and/or take a set).