[TowerTalk] RTV where to find and (getting Long Life)

Roger (K8RI) on TT K8RI-on-TowerTalk at tm.net
Fri Nov 7 00:28:29 EST 2014


Look at the calk section at Ace.  I have forgotten the name, but Dow 
Corning calk of most types is sold under a different name.  I believe 
they sold off that consumer portion of the business some years back, but 
the same materials are still available through many outlets.  Reading 
the fine print, or in the case of Ace, just ask.


BTW you can make the Silastic (TM) brand of RTVs (and most others last 
almost indefinately by simply placing the cap on tight immediately after 
using. THEN place the entire capped tube in a small tupperware box and 
snap the top on. I said Tupperware as I know they work, but I'd expect 
any moisture impervious enclosure that has a tight fittinf lid with a 
seal that doesn't leak would be fine.

I have tubes that have been opened and stored in this manner that are 
still good and appear to meat their original specs.

Most Silastic(TM) RTV has an acid like smell and works fine where it is 
not confined.  There are also versions that are non corrosive that use 
Alcohol (the stink)

I use the plain old stuff out doors.  It'll turn copper green, but still 
works.  Never cover uncured RTV that has that acid smell with tape until 
it has thoroughly cured!  Even the non acid type should never be covered 
until it has been cured.  Incidentally, most RTVs use the moisture in 
the air to cure.



73

Roger (K8RI)



On 11/6/2014 12:26 PM, Barrie - Yellowstone Photo wrote:
> Hello:
>   
> Need some advice on RTV.  I have a tube of Dow Corning 3145 which I was planning
> to use today.
> However, upon opening it I discovered that it has become too thick to flow.

>   
> I was planning to put an antenna up this coming Saturday, so I don't have time
> to order something
> exotic.  Is there something I might find at ACE Hardware, or the big box stores
> that would be okay
> to use?
>   
> TIA & 73, Barrie, W7ALW
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-- 

73

Roger (K8RI)




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