Hex Beam by K4KIO
Site publication date
12/2007
Revised 4/2008
Step Two - Spreaders

  • Fiber glass tubes are recommended for the spreaders. These can be purchased from Max Gain Systems.  Max Gain provides tips for
    attaching them together. Three thicknesses are needed; 1" O.D., 3/4" O.D., and 12" O.D. The smaller sizes fit perfectly into the next
    larger size.

  • In order to get the proper curvature of the spreaders the make up of them should follow the guidance under the first photo below. If you
    depart from this make up, your curvature might be different and it might in turn, require different center post positions for the wire
    terminals. You will need 144 inches for each spreader. If you decide to cut off a little, there are special considerations for sawing fiber
    glass and cutting tips are provided by Max Gain.

  • Some have tried to build spreaders using PVC but I have heard of no one who has done this successfully. PVC is simply too limber and
    does not have the "spring tension" needed to maintain the hex beam shape. I recommend against its use for a five band hex beam.
Insert the smaller pieces into
the larger to work out to no less
than 144 inches. Click the
photo to see the make up of
the spreaders. See Max Gain's
tips before cutting the fiber
glass.
A coat of primer paint was
sprayed on before this color.
The sections are attached with
adhesive but bolts or clamps
can be used if you desire to
disassemble the spreaders in
the future. See Max Gain tips
for this.
Click these photos to enlarge
Mark with tape or felt tip pen
the initial locations for the wire
clamps. These should be 61,
70, 83, 100 and 138 inches
from the thick end of the
spreaders.
Building the G3TXQ Broad Band Hex Beam
Slip the hose clamps on now
for use in attaching the wires
later at the places marked in
the preceding photo. Use the
large or small clamps as
needed. Tighten them only a
little as you will be slipping
attachments under them later
and making adjustments.