A similar concoction is readily available in the U.S. Depending on who manufactures it, the brand might be Penetrox, NoAlOx or OxGard. It is used by electricians to enhance aluminum to aluminum and aluminum to copper or brass electrical connections. Each of these products appears to be a mixture of a silicone based grease and powdered zinc metal. I have used such, between sections, when assembling an aluminum antenna. Before assembly, I apply the grease and use emery cloth to shine up the outer part of the inner tubing. I apply the grease to a wire brush made for plumbing and use that to clean the inside of the outer tubing. Aluminum is a very chemically reactive metal. It quickly forms an oxide that protects the surface from further reaction. Unfortunately, aluminum oxide is a pretty good insulator. By using the grease with the abrasion, the oxide is removed and the metal is protected from oxygen in the air during assembly. I find that this procedure prevents inte rmittent connections and makes future disassembly much easier. A friend had a multi band vertical antenna that was really flaky. The VSWR would change with the wind. We took his vertical apart and performed the antioxidant and abrasive treatment. His vertical worked reliably for years afterward. At one time, Mosley used to supply Penetrox with their beam antennas. A good move in my opinion.
Gary, K0CX I cover the threads with a mixture of zinc and Vaseline anyway...I still use the zinc and Vaseline on threads though because it lubricates and the zinc helps conductivity a little, but my stock has all but gone. Steve, G4VRR ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
