Best plastic for antennas, machining
On Aug 27, 12:10*pm, Michael Coslo wrote:
Afternoon everyone,
* * * * I'm rebuilding my Bugcatcher antenna. It works well, but the XYL had a
bit of an accident last year when we had a big snowstorm, the leaves
weighted down the limbs, and the antenna, which was strapped down, still
managed to introduce itself to a limb.
* * * * Anyhow, the original antenna was mounted using 1 inch thick plexiglass,
with holes drilled to run the mast through, and tapped screw holes to
mount to the back up plate, in turn mounted to the spare tire holder.
* * * * I'm trying to make something a little prettier now that I'm rebuilding it.
But the thing is, I'm curious about the material. Is there any
particular material to avoid? I know Plexi works, but what about PVC?
Delrin? Bondo? 8^) Miiling, water absorption, etc?
Polycarbonate, polycarbonate, polycarbonate.
It is way less brittle than plexiglass and far easier to machine and
work with.
It is a little more expensive than plexiglass.
Plexiglass is also know as acrylic. Polycarbonate is also known as
Lexan.
Polycarbonate is truly a wonderful material. I don't care what all
those people complaining about bisphenol-A say, polycarbonate is king.
Tim.
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