[TowerTalk] Choice of aluminum

[Rudy Bakalov]

I was wondering if anyone can help me select the right material for full-size 80m verticals. My questions are as follows:

1) metalsupermarkets.com offers 6061-T6 aluminum, but not T8. Is there a difference between T6 and T8 for my purpose?
2) Should go for the 0.125 or 0.065 wall thickness?
3) Is 1" tubing OK for the topmost segment? Too stiff for the wind at 70'? Not strong enough?


I am aware that many ham stores offer 6061-T8 tubing, but I do want to buy it local in VE3, close to my QTH, in 12' lengths (instead of 6') and avoid shipping complications due to length or clearing customs.

73 Rudy N2WQ