Jesse, Not a good idea. Both NFPA 70 (the National Electrical Code) and NFPA 780 (the Lightning Protection Code) have strict requirements for wire sizes and connection methods. Neither grounding systems nor lightning protection systems may use a soldered connection in the circuit. Perhaps your best course of action is to understand the Code requirements, and construct your system accordingly.
Keep in mind the fact that your insurance underwriter may deny any and all claims for damages due to lightning, if your system was constructed in a manner inconsistent with the applicable codes. 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Jesse Lloyd Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 8:42 AM To: [email protected] Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Copper pipe rather than 2/0 copper wire Hey All, I am thinking about lightening protection for a site and using 1/2 copper pipe runs rather than a heavy guage wire like 2/0. 1/2 copper is about $2.20 a ft, while 2/0 is about $3/foot... and 2/0's diameter is about 0.36 inches so bang for the buck 1/2 copper pipe seems the way to go. I know skin effect plays a big role in lightening since its mainly RF, what do you think about the idea? Cheers, Jesse
