[Heathkit] Cantenna

[Garey Barrell]

Jim -

1)  Transformer Oil, Mineral Oil.  Heath specifically recommended 
against motor oil, because it releases more vapors when heated 
than either of the others.

2)   The oil must be at least 1/4" above the top of the resistor 
element so it can circulate when heated.

3)   Probably about 100 Watts for short periods of time, if it's 
OUTSIDE the can where air can flow around it.  Drake sells the 
DL-300 which has a similar size and style of resistor, and they 
specified about 75W for as much as 5 minutes, and about 100W for 
2 minutes.  Double those numbers with a fan forcing air through 
the element.

4)  Probably very little if any.  Convection works pretty well 
and there is a relatively small volume of oil.

5)   I wouldn't.  Metal cans are readily available and cheap.

73, Garey - K4OAH
Atlanta

Jim Isbell wrote:

> Questions:
> 
> 1)  What is the oil to use in a cantenna?
> 
> 2)  There is a vent in the top so I imagine that the oil expands, how 
> full should I fill it?
> 
> 3)  What is the rating of the element with NO OIL?
> 
> 4)  Would circulating the oil with a pump increase the rating?
> 
> 5)  Can I use a plastic paint bucket or will it get too hot?
>