14 May Weathering Steel Transmission & Lighting Poles
Transmission and lighting poles are vital assets because they deliver electricity to our homes and businesses and provide light throughout our communities. These structures are often referred to as utility, power or telephone poles.
Most poles are made of wood and treated for protection against rot, fungi and insects. Wooden utility poles are commonly used because they are the most affordable option. However, wood poles decay and only have a lifespan of 25-50 years, depending on the climate and soil conditions where the pole is located.
Rather than continuing to replace and repair wooden transmission and lighting poles, consider weathering steel poles as a cost-effective, aesthetically-pleasing alternative.
About transmission pole steels
ASTM A871-65 steel plate and sheet are commonly used to fabricate weathering steel transmission and lighting poles. ASTM A871-65 is a high-strength, low-alloy structural steel plate with improved atmospheric corrosion resistance. This specification also provides for a 65ksi minimum yield strength and an 80ksi minimum tensile strength. The atmospheric corrosion resistance of this steel in most environments is substantially better than that of carbon steels.
Advantages of weathering steel transmission and lighting poles
Aged and decaying wooden poles are not only dangerous, but can also become eyesores along roads and throughout communities. Replacing wooden poles with weathering steel poles provides several advantages.
- Weathering steel poles require very minimal maintenance: The fundamental benefit weathering steel offers is its ability to resist corrosion. Periodic inspection and cleaning should be the only maintenance required to ensure the structure continues to perform well. Weathering steel is ideal for structures where access is difficult or dangerous, and where future disruption needs to be minimized.
- Weathering steel offers initial and whole-life cost savings: Because weathering steel can be used unpainted, the costs of a protective paint system are eliminated. Plus, the minimal maintenance requirements of weathering steel structures greatly reduce both the direct costs of maintenance operations and the indirect costs of traffic delays or rail possessions.
- Weathering steel blends well in a variety of environments: The “rusty” orange-brown patina that weathering steel develops overtime allows transmission and lighting poles to blend in with their surroundings, rather than stand out as eyesores. This naturally-developed patina regenerates continuously when exposed to weather and produces a protective barrier that impedes further access of oxygen, moisture and pollutants.
All in all, transmission and lighting poles fabricated from weathering still are proven to provide reliable service with minimal maintenance, which makes them a practical alternative to wooden poles.
Contact Central Steel Service for transmission pole steels
Central Steel Service stocks corten-equivalent transmission pole steels in a variety of widths and gauges. Contact one of our experienced sales representatives to learn more or request a quote.