Oxidation on Mag Loop Antenna

[ronsch]

Does anyone know whether oxidation on an aluminum mag loop surface reduces performance over time? I have a Pixel Pro-1B receive-only non-resonant amplified loop antenna that has been in the weather for several years.

Thanks, Ron
K2RAS

[T3sl4co1l]

As long as it's solid I doubt you'll notice a difference.  Mind possible corrosion of internal surfaces / structures / connections.

Tim

[AF6LJ]

Since Aluminum oxide is an insulator I suspect there won't be a problem.

[borjam]

Does anyone know whether oxidation on an aluminum mag loop surface reduces performance over time? I have a Pixel Pro-1B receive-only non-resonant amplified loop antenna that has been in the weather for several years.

Being non resonant it shouldn't be a problem. It might be for a resonant, transmitting loop which requires a very high Q to be efficient. But for a receiving antenna I don't think it will be a problem at all. Moreover, aluminum tends to form a passive oxide layer, it doesn't get deeper as far as I know (unlike other metals like iron).


(Wellbrook ALA-1530+ and MFJ1788 user here)

[donmr]

In normal air aluminum always has an oxide on its surface but its pretty clear.

Are you seeing corrosion?

[ronsch]

No corrosion is seen.  Just the normal concern is the antenna working as well as it can...

Ron
K2RAS