[TowerTalk] Oil for Dummy Load

[Jim Lux]

On 11/29/15 11:19 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV wrote:
>
> Check the properties of peanut oil before you use it.  I can't quickly
> find the breakdown voltage for peanut oil ... dielectric constant is
> slightly higher (3 vs. 2.2) and dissipation factory almost 10 times that
> of mineral oil but it may not be an issue in this application.
>


In these things, the electrical properties are almost immaterial. It's 
not like a transmission line or capacitor where the permittivity or 
dissipation factor are important.




> Some of the literature seems to suggest Canola oil but Soy oil seems to
> be the base of choice as "eco friendly" replacements for mineral oils
> (e.g. Envirotemp FR4).

Cheap single weight motor oil might be a good alternative.  Tesla 
coilers have used it for insulation (not in capacitors, but for oil 
insulation of HV gear).

Straight USP mineral oil is also a good alternative.  Available at feed 
stores as an animal laxative in gallon containers.



>
> 73,
>
>     ... Joe, W4TV
>
>
> On 11/28/2015 12:25 PM, Pete Smith N4ZR wrote:
>> My Cantenna-type dummy load developed a pinhole leak in the can, and all
>> the mineral oil drained out.  I have several gallons of clean (unused)
>> peanut oil left over from Thanksgiving.  Is there any reason not to use
>> this instead? From internet sources, the flash point appears to be
>> higher than mineral oil.
>>
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