[TowerTalk] [RFI] Back of desk grounding buss

[Mike Fahmie]

I had originally replied to KG2V's query offlist, but after reading other replies I decided to post my reply to the entire list to share my concerns about using Aluminum in this application.
-----------
Since I've been bit as the result of an insulating oxide layer on an 
Aluminum connection, I wouldn't recommend it for your ground buss.  I 
use copper, but since it is relatively soft, I don't count on tapped 
threads, I use a nut on the backside.  If it's heavy enough so that it 
is mechanically robust, then it's probably sufficient electrically.

-Mike-




>________________________________
> From: "n0tt1 at juno.com" <n0tt1 at juno.com>
>To: Charlie at TheGallos.com; rfi at contesting.com; TowerTalk at contesting.com 
>Sent: Thursday, March 20, 2014 1:51 PM
>Subject: Re: [TowerTalk] [RFI] Back of desk grounding buss
> 
>
>FWIW, I just use a 1/8" thick x 3/4" wide aluminum bar
>stock from the hardware store.  Goes along the back
>of the desk (near the top) and is periodly tapped for 8/32 screws
>to accept AL/CU rated "spade" lugs that connect to the
>various equipment "boxes" with ~1/4" braid.  Then the strip is
>connected to the station ground.  Works for me.
>
>73,
>Charlie, N0TT
>
>On Thu, 20 Mar 2014 13:53:19 -0400 Charlie Gallo <Charlie at TheGallos.com>
>writes:
>> Hey Gang,
>> Sort of antenna, sort of RFI, more safety..
>> 
>> I've decided my back of desk grounding situation needs to be 
>> improved 
>> 
>> Now, we all know the standard is a nice, thick copper buss.  
>> Question is, how thick? - this will then be run down to the 
>> panel/ground rod
>> 
>> Is Brass/Aluminum/Copper PIPE a valid alternative?  If aluminium, 
>> again, how large (I normally have round up to about 3" diameter 
>> sitting in the shop, as well an AL plate (various sizes, 3/16 thick 
>> up to 6" wide is everyday, and I have angle up to 5" wide legs, 1/4" 
>> thick around, and blocks up to 2" thick and 4" wide hanging around
>> 
>> I intend to silver braze most of my connections, but obviously that 
>> won't work to an Al  plate,  That I'd drill, tap, and either use 
>> studs with nuts, or screws
>> 
>> Again, we aren't talking the wall pass through here, but the buss at 
>> the back of the desk  
>> 
>> -- 
>> 73 de KG2V - Charles Gallo
>> Quality Custom Machine-shop work for the radio amateur (sm)
>> 
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>
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