ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Steel utility poles

Wayne County (Richmond) Indiana started using steel utility poles a few years ago, especially in rural areas. Has anyone else seen them used in your respective areas? If so, what is your opinion? I know there are some obvious benefits versus wooden poles but I think there are just as many cons as pros. Thoughts please.

They started using them here also.Best I can tell,they only use them for feeders to sub-stations.

I'm in rural NE Ga.

Btw,these poles are quite a bit taller than the regular wooden poles.


Russell

[This message has been edited by ga.sparky56 (edited 09-28-2003).]

Fred,
In the 60's over here, steel poles were installed and these were Hot-Dip Galvanised.
I've never experienced any problems with them.
But if I had a choice, I'd use Precast Concrete poles, biggest problem with steel poles is the fact that you have a Ground Reference next to your Lines, which can make live work, just that little bit more interesting!.
Having said that, for low voltage work, it's real handy to have that reference for voltage tests, other than use the Neutral wire.

Seen some on a backroad about 30 miles from here. Also a string of them running into London Ont, from the Longwoods transformer station.

The HV line near my house in on steel poles, not framed towers but poles. they are built in several tapered sections which slip together and are secured with bolts. This particular line has been in place for about 50 years and none of the old-timers in the neighborhood can remember it requiring any work. Similar vintage wood poles in the area are not in nearly as good of condition.

[This message has been edited by Big Jim (edited 09-30-2003).]