RE: [TCML] RF GROUND

["Lau, Gary" <Gary.Lau@xxxxxx>]

Hi Fritz,

Electrically there is no issue with using steel vs. copper.  One might argue that steel has a higher resistance, but a difference of a couple of Ohms is just not significant.

I would have to wonder however, just how much does a solid steel rod so thick and so long weigh?  Also, being subject to rust, one would need a very aggressive clamp to connect the cable to the rod to be sure that it makes good contact.

In the US, copper-plated 8 foot long, 5/8" diameter solid steel rods are sold specifically for use as ground rods.  This is what is typically used.

Regards, Gary Lau
MA, USA

> -----Original Message-----
> From: tesla-bounces@xxxxxxxxxx [mailto:tesla-bounces@xxxxxxxxxx] On
> Behalf Of Fritz W. Egli
> Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2008 9:26 AM
> To: Tesla@xxxxxxxxxx
> Subject: [TCML] RF GROUND
>
> What is wrong, with using a solid steel rod  (1" diam.  8` to 10` long),
> driving this into the ground for HF earth ?  The steel is not collapsing
> when found some resistance as copper does ..
> Of corse, the cable to the coil is  copper and the connection  cable to
> steel ground rod  is done correct. I have done this and found so far no
> problem. Expert opinion?
> Kind regards from the Swiss alps,  Fritz

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