Off topic but part of the discussion on wires,

Replying to the vibration part of the earlier discussion, we have a 46'
parabolic dish that moves at 15 degrees per second and we continiously have
the crimp connector fail on a bi-yearly basis. We have done engineering
studies with solid wire, braided wire, soldered connectors and crimped
connectors but they all failed. The solid conductor seemed to fail earlier.
We think it is weird and have replaced the entire cable harness twice (cost
was in the hundred of thousands) but the problem continues. Our other 46'
antennas do not have this problem.


"Jim Donohue" wrote in message
news:Obq2e.895$ZV5.546@fed1read05...

"Doug Dotson" dougdotson@NOSPAMcablespeedNOSPAMcom wrote in message
...

"Larry W4CSC" wrote in message
...
"Doug Dotson" dougdotson@NOSPAMcablespeedNOSPAMcom wrote in
:

Actually, the conductors are flattened when they contact the inside of
the connector and each other giving quite a bit of contact area.



Still, no matter how hard you crimp, the terminal only makes contact
with
the very edge of the outer conductors, no matter how much pressure you
put
on the inner conductors.

Just not true.

Soldering makes contact with every strand on all
the surface area that's exposed.

True, but the soldered joint is subject to other factors that will
compromise
it over time.

.....and properly soldered, prevents
exposing covered copper to seawater and condensation corrosions.

Moisture (especially seawater) will eat up a soldered joint pretty
quick.
A properly crimped joint that is sealed from moisture will last a long
time.



Sure it will last...if it is a "properly" crimped joint...but I don't
think
you or Gary know any way to tell if it is "properly" crimped. So you go
on
faith or solder. I'd solder.

When you section a crimp you can still see the individual strands so some
interface still exists. I will agree it is very close to homogeneous.
If
however it is less than perfect there may well be excellent wicking
dimensions present.

Jim Donohue