[TowerTalk] Rotator and Beam advice requested

[Jeff Draughn]

As I understand it, the purpose behind retracting the elements (copper
beryllium tapes) during high winds is to prevent damage to the tape if the
elements movement should become too violent or if a fiberglass element
housing should be damaged or just fall off. The tape could be damaged or
unable to retract.
Jeff, N0OST


On Saturday, August 20, 2016, <john at kk9a.com> wrote:

> There may be some reason, but I do not know what it is.  I stayed at AI6V's
> (sk) QTH in Aruba a few times and he requested that I retract the elements
> of his 4 element StepIR after use. Unfortunately the elements quit
> extending
> and the antenna has not been used in years.
>
> John KK9A
>
>
> To:     Chris Hoelzle <choelzle at cox.net <javascript:;>>
> Subject:        Re: [TowerTalk] Rotator and Beam advice requested
> From:   Stan Stockton <wa5rtg at gmail.com <javascript:;>>
> Date:   Fri, 19 Aug 2016 20:19:35 -0500
>
> I thought a StepIR had some kind of conductive flexible tape on inside of
> fiberglass.  If so, what's up with retracting elements to reduce wind load?
>
> Stan, K5GO
>
> Sent from Stan's IPhone
>
>
>
> > On Aug 19, 2016, at 7:44 PM, Chris Hoelzle <choelzle at cox.net
> <javascript:;>> wrote:
> >
> > Hello All. I am putting up a 80 foot Rohn 55G. I am in a 115 mph wind
> zone.
> >
> >
> >
> > I need Beam advice - I have just about settled on a StepIR DB36. Even
> though
> > the specs show 100 mph for the beam, in talking to the factory, I am told
> > "it will be fine" as long as you retract the elements in high wind. Is
> that
> > true or should I go a different direction?
> >
> >
> >
> > I like the simplicity of the StepIR as my alternative will be multiple
> beams
> > and ring rotators and all that fun.
> >
> >
> >
> > Second question - Assuming I go with the 55G and the DB36, can anyone
> guide
> > me to a good reliable rotator that I won't have to rebuild every year.
> >
> >
> >
> > Thanks so much
> >
> >
> >
> > NN6CH
> >
> > Chris Hoelzle
> > choelzle at cox.net <javascript:;>
> > Laguna Niguel, CA
> >
>
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