[TowerTalk] Fwd: grounding (again)

[Bob Shohet, KQ2M]

Since #2 AWG Solid Bare Copper seems to be the favorite choice for grounding, can someone please answer these questions:

1) For grounding purposes, does it matter if you use soft-drawn solid copper 2 AWG vs. hard-drawn solid copper 2 AWG?

2) Does it matter if the copper is solid/tinned vs. plain bare solid copper?

For (lightning) grounding runs of 100’ or more, is the difference between 2 AWG solid bare copper and 4 AWG solid bare copper that significant?
If so, up to what length can 4 AWG solid bare copper could be used interchangeably with 2 AWG solid bare copper without reducing the potential effectiveness of the ground?  

Tnx & 73

Bob  KQ2M


From: john at kk9a.com 
Sent: Monday, April 23, 2018 2:57 PM
To: towertalk at contesting.com 
Subject: [TowerTalk] Fwd: grounding (again)

Aluminum flashing is very inexpensive. I am not sure what effect this has
regarding lightning protection but aluminum is 60% as conductive as
copper. It is also susceptible to connection corrosion issues so using
using conductive grease is important.

John KK9A


Hans Hammarquist wrote:

Hi Tom,

I am using aluminum straps for my grounding runs. I found 6" wide traps in
the garden department (don't remember what department store it was.
Probably Walmart). The strips are use as edging around flower bads. They
were on sale as it was the end of the season if i remember right. They
came in rolls of 10 feet and have some means to be connected together in
longer runs (although I don't think that connection is of any value from
an electrical point).

I think it's a better idea to use aluminum as you are using an aluminum
plate at each end and there would be less issue regarding possible
corrosion if you use similar material in the plates and the grounding
strip. Aluminum strips are cheaper too, I believe.

Just my 10 cents,

Hans - N2JFS