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FYI...aluminium oxidizes much more and much faster than copper, especially if in contact with dissimilar metals and/or in a damp environment.

I've used 3/8" rigid copper tubing with a copper ground-rod strap type clamp for slide-tuning on 2 meters before.

Keep in mind wood makes a great conductor when wet.

You may be able to find 10 AWG solid wire sold locally for use as lightning-rod ground wire, clothes line, or perhaps "guy" wire.

>>> Phil

Phil, I knew I saw that type of wire recently, but I could not remember where. Yes, it was also used as clothes lines. Then, another light bulb lit. We were also using it as grounding wire for the satellite dish support frames at the radio station. I agree with you on the corrosion factor. But it is light weight, so that might be the advantage.

Josh, check out the hardware stores. Also, get ahold of Lance - he might have some of that stuff laying around if he used it for the same purpose as we did.

We might be able to get it from broadcast suppliers, too.

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Just as general information, aluminum wire has a "memory" - that is, when you bend it, over a period of time it will have a tendency to return to its orginal shape. I understand that is one of the chief causes of electrical fires in the older homes (especially mobile) that used aluminum wire in electrical applications. It has the tendency to pull itself away from the connectors in the push-in devices such as switches and recepticals used today. For those who live in these types of dwellings, it would probably be a very good idea to use the screw terminals when you change them out. I believe aluminum wiring in homes (mobile or stick-houses) was outlawed around 1970. (or at least in that time frame)

While you are at it, check your aluminum wire terminations in your power panels for tightness and signs of overheating at least once a year. Also, remember that when you secure an aluminum wire to a copper device in electrical applications, a special chemical is needed to prevent oxidation caused by the "Battery Effect." The green slimy stuff you see around and in the service wire connections of the power panel is that compound I am addressing. DO NOT clean it from the terminals. That stuff didn't grow in there, and it didn't come from Mars.

However, if it looks like corrosion, it probably is. Be careful how you determine what it is. De-Ox feels like grease.

Corrosion feels and looks like corrosion. If it is corrosion, immediate action to correct it is required.

Failure to use this compound could result in a very dangerous situation for you and your family.

This compound can be obtained from hardware stores. One of the brand names is De-Ox. It is dark green in color. Most electrical contractors I personally know use that specific brand.

Remember....aluminum wire for service entrance is still being used today. It is in your main feeds coming into your home or business. Once again, I say check those connections (or at least have them checked by your electrician) in your power panels at least once a year. I do. I headed off a potential electrical fire in one of our theatres by checking that once a year.

When it comes to electrical safety, there can be NO compromise.

OK, I babbled enough on this subject. You do as you wish.
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Paul

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That safety information on aluminum power wire installations you posted is valuable. I didn't know of the existence of De-Ox compounds.

Aluminum power wire is not permitted in the five counties of New York City. Nor is Romex. Power installations require a minimum of flexible metal shielded wire (BX cable), or where exposed, as in basements, tubular shielding.

Gerard

It also can be used if you lock yourself out of the car.

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Josh