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Non-conductive metal for lightning rod
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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 Watsonset 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, California, 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.
++++ 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 Vegas, Nevada |
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Huh? We appreciate the response, Jhon, but I think you've certainly misunderstood something.
++++++ 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 Celsius. Hope it helps Rhodam Evans- Johannesburg, South Africa |