Letter 30024

Non-conductive metal for lightning rod [California] 

++++ I'm asked to bid a 130' tall pole with a 2'6" base and ground mounted in Las Vegas Nevada is there any non conductive metals I could use. Thanks, Kevin Watson set builder - Van Nuys, California, USA First of two simultaneous responses ++++ NO. By definition, metals are conductive. Maybe fiberglass? In any case, for something that tall you need a structural engineer. Tom Gallant - Long Beach, CA, USA Second of two simultaneous responses ++++ Metals, by definition, as electrically conducting. The only way to make them "non conducting" is to put an insulator, such as a piece of plastic, in series between two rods. Trevor Crichton R&D practical scientist - UK ++++ Yes you can use a Aluminium with Zinc plating bar which is fully non-conductive. It is used for engine testing on turbofan systems. Its an expensive but safe option. Jhon Smith - Las Vagas, Nevada

Huh?

We appreciate the response, Jhon, but I think you've certainly misunderstood something.

 
Ted Mooney, P.E.
finishing.com Inc. - Brick, NJ

Where can I get some of that Aluminium with Zinc plating from? I have really bright bulbs for my car, and it is melting away the plastic plug. I want to make something that will stand the heat - this Aluminium with Zinc plating sounds like a good idea if it isn't conductive.

Alex
- Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Teflon coating is a material which is zero conductivity and its melting temperature is 327 degrees celcius. Hope it helps

Rhodam Evans
- Johannesburg, South Africa

I want to answer or follow-up on this subject publicly (in non-commercial fashion).

 

I want to post a new question or inquiry of my own on a different subject.