Copper and aluminium react electrolytically quite readily. The normal
solution to this problem where large currents are not involved, (and they
aren't in your receiving antenna application) is to coat the aluminium with
alcromate which is conductive, apply some grease to the interface and bolt
it up tight. You must keep out moisture to prevent electroytic corrosion, so
if it doesn't need to be dismantled very often, paint the whole thing.
Dave Simpson
----- Original Message -----
From: Alfred Buess <Alfred.Buess@shl.bfh.ch>
Subject: Bolting copper to aluminum
A simple question from a metallurgic ignorant to the experts out there:
I have to bolt the copper ground plane mesh of my ELT antenna to the
aluminum bracket holding the antenna. Is there any risk of corrosion between
the copper of the mesh and the aluminum of the bracket? If yes, how can I
bolt it together, keep the joint conductive and prevent corrosion? Any
answer is appreciated!
Alfred
Monowheel #097
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