[Antennas] Feedline spacers and wire weight

[Steve L.]

> Black poly tubing, such as sold in coils for water
> irrigation, has
> outstanding weather and UV resistance and is very
> light and tuff.

Yes, I use this stuff in 3/8" diameter which is plenty
strong and really lightweight. By far the best
material I've ever used. The 1/2" is easier to find
but it has more wind-loading.

HOWEVER, I've been using 14AWG hard-drawn 7-strand
uninsulated 100% copper wire for the feeders and they
are quite a bit heavier than the commercial 450 Ohm
PVC ladder line I have purchased with 14AWG
copper-clad steel wire.

Yet copper clad steel wire is hardly any lighter than
copper according to the wire charts. I don't get it.

Anyone find a lightweight copper-clad steel wire
suitable for this? I run full QRO and some longer runs
of open wire line so I really want the 14AWG wire.

Weight is a major concern because I hang large wire
arrays from very tall trees with long spans and the
feedline causes a lot of droop.

73, Steve N4SL Machias, WA CN88xa

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