[Antennas] Antenna support rope question

[N3DOK@attbi.com]

Hi, Below I printed some information about the different types of ropes that
can be used Amateur Radio.

The information below is from Radio Works page:
http://www.radioworks.com/nrope.html

Synthetic Rope Characteristics
Man made fiber ropes are stronger and more durable than those made of
natural fibers. Synthetic rope is not affected by most chemicals, rot, or
mildew. Most synthetic rope may be stored wet or dry.


NYLON

Nylon is highly elastic and can absorb sudden shock loads that would break
ropes of other fibers. It has very good resistance to abrasion, rot, oils,
gasoline, grease, marine growth and most chemicals. Nylon deteriorates more
rapidly than Polyester when subjected to direct sunlight. Due to the
characteristic stretch of nylon, wire antenna installations will require
occasional retensioning the support ropes.

POLYESTER (i.e. Dacron�)


Dacron� Polyester is not quite as strong as nylon, but has far better
resistance to ultra-violet degradation from sunlight. It is not as elastic
as nylon and therefore does not stretch as much as nylon. These
characteristics are a plus in an antenna support rope. Other than these two
distinctions, the nylon and polyester characteristics are practically the
same.



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Compared to Nylon, Dacron polyester is a far more useful and desirable
antenna support line.

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POLYPROPYLENE


This is a strong, lightweight rope. It is waterproof, and resistant to rot,
oils, gasoline and most chemicals. Polypropylene is subject to rapid
deterioration when exposed to direct sunlight, so its life is very short
when used as an antenna support rope.

POLYETHYLENE


Polyethylene is similar to Polypropylene, but is slightly heavier. It is not
as strong. It, too, deteriorates quickly in direct sunlight.

KEVLAR�


By weight, Kevlar� is stronger than steel. This is the material used in
'bullet-proof vests.' The molecular structure is such that it does not
stretch and this characteristic makes it perfect for many antenna
applications (boom and element support in beams, and general antenna use).
Without a protective jacket, it deteriorates rapidly in sunlight. To counter
this problem, Kevlar rope, meant for out-of-doors use, has a protective
outer jacket made of Dacron� Polyester. The combination results in an
incredibly strong, stretchless, long life rope.

Main Web Site for RADIO WORKS:
http://www.radioworks.com/index.htmlhttp://www.radioworks.com/index.html


I do not have any affiliation with Radio Works

Bob N3DOK