Effect of span lengths and pole class on efficiency of wood distribution poles

Abstract

The effect of span lengths and pole class on the efficiency and reliability of wood distribution poles is investigated. Performance of 12m utility poles of class 1 on 75m spans and class 3 on 45m spans are computed and compared. Metrics of evaluation includes the bending capacity at ground line and material costs of initial installation. Second order (P-Δ) effects and wind on pole are also considered. The main inference from the study is that poles of higher class and larger spans showed better structural efficiency and economy than those of shorter spans and lower class. Suggestions for application of this inference to other situations are made.