[TowerTalk] MA-550 Telescoping Tower Grounding and Rotator Cage

[Dick Green WC1M]

Gee, I don't know if I'd go through the trouble. Seems to me that continuity
between the sections is pretty-well maintained by the system of steel cables
and pulleys. They're under considerable tension, so it's likely they'll
maintain good contact. Finger stock, on the other hand, may lose contact
over time, especially as the surface of the tubes gets wet, grimy and/or
greasy.

Furthermore, your best protection against lightning will be to keep the
tower fully retracted, especially during storms. Depending on your
particular setup, this may bring the antenna and tower below nearby trees
and buildings, reducing the likelihood of a hit. Also, strong winds often
accompany lightning storms, and if you have anywhere near the max windload
you don't want this tower fully extended when the wind is blowing harder
than about 35 MPH (otherwise, it will sway in a manner that will make your
stomach queasy.)

73, Dick WC1M

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Steve, W3AHL [mailto:w3ahl at att.net]
> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2009 9:51 AM
> To: towertalk at contesting.com
> Subject: [TowerTalk] MA-550 Telescoping Tower Grounding and Rotator Cage
> 
> Several reference on lightning control recommend using some type of
flexible
> grounding contacts to ensure continuity between the telescoping sections
of a
> tubular tower.  I'm considering using stainless steel fingerstock, but
would
> appreciate hearing of other's solutions.
> 
> Also looking for any lessons learned on building a rotator cage (not using
> the MARB base).  I've seen several examples on web sites, but suspect they
> weren't "engineered" solutions.
> 
> Steve, W3AHL