Disclaimer: The contents of this guidance document does not have the force and effect of law and

is not
meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public
regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Utilities Service

BULLETIN 1724E-214

RD-GD-2019-96

SUBJECT: Guide Specification for Standard Class Steel Transmission Poles

TO: RUS Electric Borrowers, Consulting Engineers, and RUS Electric Program Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: Date of Approval

OFFICE OF PRIMARY INTEREST: Engineering Standards Branch, Electric Program

FILING INSTRUCTIONS: This bulletin replaces RUS Bulletin 1724E-214, "Guide

Specification for Standard Class Steel Transmission Poles" issued March 23, 2017.

AVAILABILITY: This bulletin can be accessed via the Internet at:

https://www.rd.usda.gov/publications/regulations-guidelines/bulletins/electric

PURPOSE: This bulletin provides guidance for procuring standard class steel poles for
transmission applications.

April 9, 2019
Christopher A. McLean Date
Assistant Administrator,
Electric Program
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page ii

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The following current and former members of the Transmission Line Subcommittee of the
National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Transmission and Distribution Engineering
Committee provided invaluable assistance in preparing this document:

Ballard, Dominic, East Kentucky Power Coop., Winchester, KY

Beadle, Bob, North Carolina EMC, Raleigh, NC
Beckett, Thomas, TL Beckett Consulting Engineers, Marietta, GA
Bertelsen, James, Dairyland Power Cooperative, La Crosse, WI
Caldwell, Art, Georgia Transmission Corporation, Tucker, GA
Harvey, Gary, East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Winchester, KY
Johnson, Wilson, USDA, Rural Utilities Service, Electric Program, Washington, DC
Kahanek, Bil, McCord Engineering, Inc., College Station, TX
Lukkarila, Charles, Great River Energy, Maple Grove, MN
McAndrew, Jeremy, South Mississippi Electric Power Assoc., Hattiesburg, MS
Metro, Patti, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Arlington, VA
Nordin, Bryan, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association, Inc., Denver, CO
Ruggeri, Erik, Power Engineers, Hailey, ID
Shambrock, Aaron, South Central Power Company, Lancaster, OH
Twitty, John, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, Andalusia, AL
Woodruff, Paul, Great River Energy, Maple Grove, MN
Zhang, Chendi, USDA, Rural Utilities Service, Electric Program, Washington, DC
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page iii

BLANK PAGE
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Instructions ............................................................................................................................ vii-x

Technical Specifications ....................................................................................................... 1-24

1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 1
2 Definitions .............................................................................................................................1
3 Codes and Standards ........................................................................................................... 3
4 Conflicts between Specifications, Drawings, and Reference Documents .......................... 5
5 General Requirements ......................................................................................................... 5
6 Shipping and Delivery .........................................................................................................17
7 Drawings and Information to Be Supplied by Manufacturers ............................................17
8 Approvals, Acceptance and Ownership .............................................................................19
9 List of Attachments to This Specification ...........................................................................19

Attachment A - Structure Dimensions and Pole Framing Drawings ..................................20

Attachment B - Application Requirements ........................................................................22
Attachment C - Standard Class Steel Pole Bid Summary ...................................................24

Appendix A - Commentary
Appendix B - Examples of Drawings
Appendix C - Design Examples
Appendix D - Selected Metric Conversions
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page v
ABBREVIATIONS

ACA Ammoniacal Copper Arsenate

ACSR Aluminum conductor steel reinforced
ACZA Ammoniacal Copper Zinc Arsenate
ANCO American Nut Company
AISC American Institute of Steel Construction
ANSI American National Standards Institute
ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
AWS American Welding Society
CCA Chromated Copper Arsenate
DFT Dry Film Thickness
Eq. F Equivalency Factor
HSS High Strength Steel
kV kilovolt
ksi kips (1000 lb.) per square inch
mph miles per hour
LF Load factor
NACE National Association of Corrosion Engineers
NESC National Electrical Safety Code
NEMA National Electrical Manufacturers Association
OHGW Overhead ground wire
psf pounds per square foot
psi pounds per square inch
UNC unified coarse threads
RUS Rural Utilities Service
SSPC Steel Structure Painting Council
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page vi
DEFINITIONS

Borrower – An entity which borrows or seeks to borrow money from or arranges financing with
the assistance of the Rural Utilities Service through guarantees, lien accommodations or lien
subordinations.

RUS Form 198 – Equipment Contract.

Rural Utilities Service (RUS) – An Agency of the United States Department of Agriculture,
under Rural Development.

INDEX:

Materials and Equipment: Guide Specifications for Standard Class Steel Poles
Poles: Steel
Specifications and Standards: Guide Specifications for Standard Class Steel Poles.
Transmission Facilities: Poles (Steel)
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page vii

INSTRUCTIONS WHEN USING THE GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS

FOR STANDARD CLASS STEEL TRANSMISSION POLES

1. PURPOSE

The intent of this guide specification is to provide Rural Utilities Service (RUS) Electric
Program borrowers a basis for procuring standard class steel poles for transmission
applications. Use of this specification should help eliminate ambiguities that might arise
in the evaluation process of competitively bid standard class steel poles procurements.

Borrowers or their engineering representatives will need to complete this specification

and add documents as appropriate. Modifications to this specification may be necessary
to consider special applications or preferences of the owner.

2. SCOPE

This suggested purchase specification covers the technical aspects of design, materials,
manufacturing, inspection, testing, and delivery of direct embedded standard class steel
poles. It is recommended that this specification be limited to single poles that are not
guyed, not subjected to unbalanced lateral loads, or do not have unusual deflection or
other special limitations. For applications that consider these items, it is recommended
that the owner use “Guide Specifications for Steel Single Pole and H-Frame Structures,”
RUS Bulletin 1724E-204.

This guide specification does not include contract (front-end) documents or specifications
for construction. The user of this specification should add these documents, including
general conditions and any supplemental instructions to the bidders. This specification
may be expanded to include H-frame structures.

3. INITIAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

There are engineering decisions required of the user of this specification to determine
which standard class steel poles to specify. Some examples include, but are not limited to:

• Amount of foundation rotation in contributing to P-delta moments;

• Location of point of fixity;
• Embedment depths;
• Load cases to be considered in addition to those required by the National
Electrical Safety Code (NESC); and
• Deflection limitations.

Prior to the selection of a standard class pole, the user should perform the engineering
required for these types of issues or employ an engineering consultant to do so. See
Appendix A of this bulletin for a discussion of some of these items.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page viii

4. INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED BY THE OWNER

Users of these specifications should detach the instructions and the Appendices, and add
or complete the following:

a. Documents and general information to be added to the technical specification:

Front-end documents and general information which need to be added to this
technical specification.

• RUS Form 198, Equipment Contract (Recommended for competitive bidding)

• Supplemental Instructions to Bidders
• General Conditions

When there is competitive bidding, it is recommended that RUS Form 198 be

used. This form covers Notice and Instructions to Bidders, Proposal, and
Equipment Contract. For the 2nd item above, Supplemental Instructions, the user
may want to add such items as Bid Submission, Bid Price and Schedule, Bid
Acceptance Period, Bid Requirements, and Bid Data. A section on General
Conditions could include such items as Definition of Terms, Interpretation of Bid
Documents, Addenda to the Bid Documents, Insurance, Method of Payment (if
RUS Form 198 is not used), Quantities, and Tabulation of Unit Prices.

b. Requirements to the technical specifications to be added or completed by the owner

or owner’s representative and supplied to the bidders include:

(1) Configuration requirements and other information (Attachment A of the

Specification or equivalent):
• Pole Length
• Pole Class
• Pole Framing (Pole attachment requirements)
• Embedment Depths

(2) Strength requirements and standard class designations for steel poles

This specification establishes standard steel pole sizes. The engineer in the
design process needs to select the appropriate standard class pole from
Table 1 based on loading requirements and a calculated load 2 feet from
the top.

Minimum design loads have to meet NESC requirements which are

appropriate for the loading district, the NESC extreme wind load
provisions, NESC extreme ice with concurrent wind and any necessary
extreme ice and wind conditions with the appropriate load factors and any
local codes. The design loads account for all loading cases, including wind
on pole and secondary stresses from foundation deflection and rotation, and
from vertical loads acting on lateral pole deflection (P-delta effect).
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page ix

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Guidelines for Electrical

Transmission Line Structural Loading can be used for developing loads
produced by climate, accidents, construction and maintenance.
Calculations need to include the vertical, transverse, and longitudinal loads
with wind on the structure and the dead weight of the structure for any
given loading condition applied simultaneously. All loads require
appropriate load factors.

(3) Application Requirements (Attachment B of the Specification to be

completed by the owner.)

• Type of pole finish.

• Special Charpy requirements.
• Desired method of surface protection.
• Preference of climbing ladders, steps or stepbolts. Also, quantity of
removable ladders, steps or step bolts to be supplied with the total order
of poles should be specified.
• Location of climbing and /or working ladders or step bolts.
• Ground collar
• Pole grounding method.
• Delivery schedule, and free on board destination, and owner’s contact.
• Miscellaneous additional items such as special attachments
requirements, climbing devices, hot line maintenance requirements
switch operating mechanisms, location of bolt holes for other
equipment requirements.
• Pole tests (if required).

5. INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED BY THE MANUFACTURER

a. The owner or owner’s representative should have the following information

completed and submitted by each bidder (Attachment C of this specification or
equivalent).

(1) Design information (Pole Framing Drawing and length). This will
demonstrate conformance with the design needs.

(2) For each standard class steel pole, provide the diameter at the top, at the
ground line, and at the bottom, plus the pole taper. This will demonstrate
conformance with the requirements of paragraph 5.a.(2)(c).

(3) For each standard class steel pole, provide the following general
information: the weight of each pole; the tip load of each pole class; the
location of the point of fixity; the type of steel according to American
Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) number and yield; the pole cross
sectional shape; and the connection details for multiple piece poles
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page x

(slip/flange joints). This will demonstrate conformance with the

requirements of paragraphs 5.a.(1), 5.a.(2), 5.a.(3), and 5.a.(6).

(4) For each standard class steel pole, provide the following calculations at
the ground line: Moment, Shear, Axial load, and Cross-sectional area.
This will demonstrate conformance with the requirements of section 5.a.

(5) For each standard class steel pole, provide the following calculations at
the point of fixity: Moment, Shear, Axial load, and Cross-sectional area.
This will demonstrate conformance with the requirements of section 5.a.

(6) For each standard class steel pole, provide the wall thickness at the pole
top, ground line, and bottom. This may be provided in catalog form.

(7) For each standard class steel pole provide the pole top deflection due to
design load.

b. Documentation which the successful bidder needs to supply for approval by

owner or owner's representative prior to manufacture of the pole include:

(1) Description of pole including geometry, thickness, length, diameter, taper,

and hole locations.

(2) Complete design/erection reproducible drawings for each pole class.

(3) Anticipated deflection of pole at specified tip load.

(4) Connection and Assembly Details on multiple piece poles.

c. Test reports (as requested by the owner).

 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page xi

BLANK PAGE
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 1

SPECIFICATIONS FOR STANDARD CLASS STEEL TRANSMISSION POLES

1. SCOPE: This specification covers the design, materials, welding, inspection, protective
coatings, drawings and delivery of unguyed standard class, direct embedded, steel
transmission poles. The poles are to be used in single pole, unguyed situations.

2. DEFINITIONS

Appurtenance – Any hardware or structural members that are attached to the pole to make
a complete structure.

Bearing Plate – A plate at the base of the pole that is intended to transfer the vertical loads
of the pole.

Charpy Impact – The impact properties of the material which are used to evaluate the
susceptibility of structural steel to brittle fracture. See ASTM A370 and ASCE 48 for
details.

Crook – A localized deviation from straightness that causes the centerline of one section of
the pole not to align with the centerline of another section of the pole.

Circumferential Weld /C-weld – A weld perpendicular to the long axis of a structural

member.

D/t – The ratio of the diameter of a tubular pole to the plate thickness.

Engineer – A registered or licensed person, who may be a staff employee or an outside

consultant, and who provides engineering services. Engineer also includes duly authorized
assistants and representatives of the licensed person.

Ground Collar – An additional steel plate jacket that encapsulates the portion of the buried
pole immediately above and below the groundline.

Group of Bolt Holes – All of the holes in which an appurtenance will be attached.

Guyed Structure – A structure in which cable supports are used to increase its lateral load
resistance.

Groundline – A designated location on the pole where the surface of the ground will be
after installation of a direct embedded pole. The groundline location will be used to locate
the ground collar and other attachments to the pole.

Flanged Connection/splice – A bolted type connection.

Factored Load – The maximum design load that includes the appropriate load factor
specified.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 2

In-Line Face – The face of the pole which “faces” an adjacent structure in the line.

Longitudinal Weld – A weld parallel to the long axis of a structural member.

Manufacturer – The company responsible for the fabrication of the poles. The
manufacturer fabricates the poles based on the design drawings developed by the structural
designer, which is the manufacturer’s engineer responsible for the structural design of the
poles.

Load Factors (LF) – A multiplier, which is applied to each of the vertical, transverse and
longitudinal structure loads to obtain a factored load.

Owner – The Rural Utilities Service borrower or owner's representative.

P-delta (P-∆) Moment – A measure of the increase in bending moment resulting from a
structure’s displacement under load.

Pole Height – For this bulletin, this term is used interchangeably with pole length.

Pole Length – The length from the pole top to the bearing plate on the pole bottom.

Pole Sweep – The measure of deviation from straightness along the length of the pole.

Point of Fixity – The point where the maximum moment occurs. The actual location of
this point is dependent on the characteristics of soils around the embedded portion of the
pole. For this specification it will be assumed to be equal to 7 percent of the pole length.

Pole Twist – spiral rotation of a pole section relative to the pole end. It is caused by the
residual stress in the steel as received from the mill, the clamping force holding the tube
shells together and the heat applied during the seam welding process.

Slip Connection/splice – A telescoping type connection of two tapered tubular pole

sections.

Standard Class Pole – A direct embedded steel pole that is designed according to a
standardized strength and loading criteria established by the owner.

Taper – The change in diameter of a tubular section from its base to its top.

Tip Load – The horizontal load that is applied to the standard class pole at a distance of 2
feet from the pole top.

Yield Strength – The minimum stress at which a material will start to physically deform
without further increase in the load or which produces a permanent 0.2 percent
deformation. This is also known as the elastic limit of the material.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 3

Ultimate Moment Capacity – The moment that is developed in the pole at the time the
yield strength of the pole is realized.

w/t – Ratio of a flat width of a multisided pole to the thickness of the steel plate.

Weathering Steel – Steel that conforms to ASTM A588 or A871. This steel forms a
natural protective oxide layer on the surface.

3. CODES AND STANDARDS

Codes, standards, or other documents referred to in this specification shall be considered as

part of this specification. The following codes and standards are referenced:

a. American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), “Specification for the Design,

Fabrication and Erection of Structural Steel for Buildings,” latest edition.

b. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Standard, “Design of Steel

Transmission Pole Structures,” ASCE 48, latest edition.

c. American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM), various standards, latest

revision. Referenced ASTM specifications:

A6/A6M Specification for General Requirements for Rolled Structural Steel

Bars, Plates, Shapes, and Sheet Piling

A36/A36M Specification for Carbon Structural Steel

A123/A123M Specification for Zinc (Hot-Dip Galvanized) Coatings on Iron and

Steel Products

A143 Practice for Safeguarding Against Embrittlement of Hot-Dip

Galvanized Structural Steel Products and Procedure for Detecting
Embrittlement

A153/153M Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and Steel

Hardware

A325 Specification for High-Strength Bolts for Structural Steel Joints

A354 Specification for Quenched and Tempered Alloy Steel Bolts,

Studs, and Other Externally Threaded Fasteners

A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel

Products
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 4

A384 Practice for Safeguarding Against Warpage and Distortion During

Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Steel Assemblies

A570/A570M Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip, Carbon, Hot-Rolled,

Structural Quality

A572/A572M Specification for High-Strength Low-Alloy Columbium-

Vanadium Structural Steel

A588/588M Specification for High Strength Low-Alloy Structural Steel with

50 ksi Minimum Yield Point to 4 in. Thick

A595 Specification for Steel Tubes, Low-Carbon, Tapered for Structural

Use

A607 Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip, High-Strength, Low-

Alloy, columbium or Vanadium, or Both, Hot-Rolled and Cold-
Rolled

A673/A673M Specification for Sampling Procedure for Impact Testing of

Structural Steel

A871/A871M Specification for High Strength Low-Alloy Structural Steel Plate

with Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance

B695 Specification for Coatings of Zinc Mechanically Deposited on Iron

and Steel

B696 Specification for Coatings of Cadmium Mechanically Deposited

d. American Welding society (AWS), Structural Welding Code, AWS D1.1, latest
edition.

e. American National Standards Institute (ANSI), National Electrical Safety Code,

ANSI C2, latest edition.

f. Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC, formerly Steel Structure Painting Council)/
National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Surface Preparations
Specification, SSPC/NACE SP-6/NACE 3.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 5

4. CONFLICT BETWEEN THIS SPECIFICATION, DRAWINGS, AND

REFERENCES DOCUMENTS

In the event of conflict between this specification and the above referenced documents, the
requirements of this specification shall take precedence. In the case of conflict between
several referenced documents, the most stringent requirement shall be followed. If a
conflict exits between this specification or the referenced documents and the attached
drawings, the attached drawings shall be followed. If clarification is necessary, contact the
owner.

5. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The design, fabrication, allowable stresses, processes, tolerances, and inspection shall
conform to ASCE Standard, “Design of Steel Transmission Pole Structures” (ASCE 48),
latest edition, with the following additions and/or exceptions:

a. Design Requirements

(1) Pole designs shall be prepared for the attached Standard Class design loads.
The poles shall be designed to meet ASCE 48, “Design of Steel
Transmission Pole Structures”, design methods. The point-of-fixity shall be
considered to be located at a distance from the pole bottom that is equal to 7
percent of the pole length. The pole shall be symmetrically designed such
that the strength required in any one direction shall be required in all
directions about the longitudinal axis.

(2) Using the corresponding values in Table 1, the poles shall be designed for
the following requirements as illustrated by Figure 1.

(a) The pole shall develop the minimum ultimate moment capacity
required in Table 1 at a distance of five feet from the pole top.

(b) The pole shall develop the minimum ultimate moment capacity
above the point-of-fixity that is calculated by multiplying the tip
load in Table 1 by the distance to the tip load.

(c) The geometry and taper of the pole shall be uniform throughout their
entire length (top to butt).
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 6

Figure 1
Minimum Ultimate Moment Capacity Diagram along the Pole
Pole Top
2' Tip
5' Load
Min. Strength Governed
Ultimate By Section 5.1.2.(a)
Moment
Capacity

Strength Governed
By Section 5.1.2.(b)

(Tip Load X D)

Owner Defined
Groundline

Point-of-Fixity

Strength Governed
By Section 5.1.2.(c)

Pole Butt

(3) The poles shall be designed to withstand the specified tip loading in Table 1
without exceeding a pole deflection of 15 percent of the pole length above
the point of fixity when tested in accordance with ASCE 48.

(4) Overall length of poles shall be designed and manufactured in incremental

lengths of 5 feet.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 7

Table 1
Strength Requirements

Minimum Horizontal
Standard Class Ultimate Moment Tip Load
Designations for Capacity At Five Feet From Applied 2 Ft from Pole Top
Steel Pole Top (Lbs.)
Poles (Ft.–Kip)
S-12.0 96 12,000
S-11.0 88 11,000
S-10.0 80 10,000
S-09.0 72 9,000
S-08.0 64 8,000
S-07.4 57 7,410
S-06.5 50 6,500
S-05.7 44 5,655
S-04.9 38 4,875
S-04.2 32 4,160
S-03.5 27 3,510
S-02.9 23 2,925
S-02.4 19 2,405
S-02.0 15 1,950

(5) Poles shall be designed for the loads generated from handling and erecting
without causing permanent deformation or damage to the pole when
handled according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Handling and erecting
loads shall include but not be limited to, a one-point (tilting) pickup and a
two-point (horizontal) pickup.

(6) The maximum design unit stress shall be the minimum yield strength as
stated in applicable ASTM specifications for the particular application and
types of loads, including load factors.

(7) Minimum plate thickness for all pole components shall be 3/16 inch.

(8) The owner shall provide the pole manufacturer with the load capabilities,
attachment method, and attachment location of the appurtenances. The pole
manufacture shall verify that the pole will not have a localized strength
problem at the attachment point.

(9) All poles shall have bearing plates. Bearing plates shall have diameter not
more than 2 inches greater than the maximum diameter at the pole butt.

(10) Galvanized poles shall have a drain hole at the bottom. This hole shall not
be greater than 20 percent of the bottom plate surface area.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 8

(11) Grade and type of steel shall be uniform for the poles.

(12) Ground collars to protect the pole groundline area from corrosive
environments are required per Attachment B. Length of the ground collar
shall be as specified in Attachment B.

(13) Ground collars shall have a minimum thickness of 3/16 inch; shall be
centered at the groundline; and shall not be considered in strength
calculations. A seal weld shall be provided around the ground collar at the
top and bottom of the ground collar.

(14) The top of the pole shall be permanently covered with a structural steel
plate that is bolted or otherwise permanently attached to the pole. The pole
shall be delivered with the pole cover attached in place.

(15) Lifting lugs are optional. The manufacturer shall supply all guidelines for
handling and erection of poles and arms.

(16) In the design of connections for vangs, brackets, or stiffeners attached to the
pole shaft, care shall be taken to distribute the loads sufficiently to protect
the wall of the pole from local buckling.

(17) Weathering steel structures shall be designed to eliminate water and refuse
traps. The tubular sections shall be sealed from moisture entering the inside
of the pole. Factory drilled holes shall be plugged to prevent moisture
intrusion during shipping. Connections shall be designed to reduce the
effect of pack-out by preventing moisture from entering the joint or by
designing the connection to allow moisture to easily drain off.

(18) Plastic plugs shall be installed in all nuts welded to the structure and all
tapped holes.

(19) Pole design and design calculations shall be the responsibility of the
manufacturer.

(20) Poles shall be designed with the minimum number of joints.

(21) Field welding is not normally permitted. In rare instances, it will be

permitted to make minor repairs. All welds must be approved by the owner
and must follow the manufacturer’s direction.

(22) Flange connections for weathering steel poles shall be designed to avoid
pack-out.

(23) Application requirements: (See Attachment B of this Specification)

 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 9

b. Materials

(1) All materials shall comply with the applicable requirements of ASTM
specifications. Any modifications from ASTM specifications must be
approved by the owner or the owner’s representative.

(2) Steel utilized for the purposes of making poles shall conform with the
following ASTM Specifications: ASTM A36, ASTM A570, ASTM A572,
ASTM 588, ASTM A607, ASTM A871 or ASTM A595, and must be
qualified to the requirements contained in ASTM A6/A6M-96b.

(3) Structural plate, and weld material, shall conform to ASTM A370 and
ASCE 48. Plates shall be heat-lot tested in conformance with ASTM A 673
Charpy V-Notch Impact test for properties of 15 ft-lbs. at –20°F.

(4) For galvanized structures, steel used for the pole shaft and arms shall have a
silicon content less than .06 percent.

(5) Bolts and nuts shall conform, as applicable to ASTM A307, ASTM A325,
and ASTM A354. Locknuts or American Nut Company (ANCO) type self-
locking nut shall be provided for each bolt. Locknuts shall be the
galvanized MF type or ANCO type. Other types of nut locking devices
must be approved by the owner.

c. Fabrication

(1) All welding shall be in accordance with the American Welding Society
Code AWS D1.1, latest edition. Welders shall be qualified in accordance
with AWS D1.1 welding procedures.

(2) One hundred percent penetration welds shall be required in, but not limited
to, the following areas:

• Circumferential welds (C-welds) joining structural members;

• Longitudinal welds in the female portion of the joint within the slip joint
area plus 6 inches;

• Welds at butt joints with back-up strips; and

• Longitudinal welds within 3 inches of C-welds, flange welds, base

welds and ends of tubes.

(3) Full penetration, or equivalent 90 percent partial penetration with fillet

overlay to develop the shaft capacity, shall be used for arm-to-arm brackets,
vang-to-plate reinforcement, and arm box joints.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 10

(4) Quality and acceptability along the entire length of full penetration welds
shall be determined by visual and ultrasonic inspection.
(5) All other penetration welds shall have 60 percent minimum penetration.
Quality and acceptability of all welds other than full penetration welds shall
be determined by visual inspection, supplemented by magnetic particle,
ultrasonic, or dye penetrant inspection.
(6) All weld back-up strips shall be welded continuous for the length of the
welds. Care shall be exercised in the design of welded connections to avoid
areas of high stress concentration that could be subject to fatigue or brittle
fractures.
(7) Field welding shall not be permitted except with owners, or owner’s
representative’s approval, and the manufacturer’s direction in repairing the
pole.
(8) All parts of the pole shall be neatly finished and free from kinks or twists.
All holes, blocks, and clips shall be made with sharp tools and shall be
clean-cut without torn or ragged edges.
(9) Before being laid out or worked in any manner, structural material shall be
straight and clean. If straightening is necessary, it shall be done by methods
that will not compromise the steel.
(10) Shearing and cutting shall be performed carefully and all portions of the
work shall be finished neatly. Copes and re-entrant cuts shall be finished
neatly.
(11) All forming or bending during fabrication shall be done by methods that
will prevent embrittlement or loss of strength in the material being worked.
(12) Holes for connection bolts shall be 1/8 inch larger than the nominal
diameter of the bolts. Holes in the flange plates for bolted splices shall be
1/8 inch larger than the bolt diameter. The details of all connections and
splices shall be subject to the approval of the owner or the owner’s
representative.
(13) Holes in steel plates which are punched must be smooth and cylindrical
without excessive tear out or depressions. Any burrs that remain after
punching shall be removed by grinding, reaming, etc.
(14) Holes of any diameter may be drilled in plate of any thickness. Care shall
be taken to maintain accuracy when drilling stacks of plates.
(15) Holes may be made by use of a machine guided oxygen torch. Flame cut
edges shall be reasonably smooth to minimize stress concentrations.
(16) Field drilled holes must be approved by the owner. If the manufacturer is
aware of the owner's intent to field drill holes, the manufacture must supply
a galvanizing touch-up kit for galvanized poles or a silicon sealant for
weathering steel poles.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 11

d. Tolerances

Manufacturing tolerances shall be limited to the following:

One piece: ±2 inches, or ±1 inch ±1/8 inch per 10 feet of length, whichever
Pole Length is greater (i.e. - 120-foot pole shall have a length of 120 feet ±2½ inches)
Assembled pole with flange connections: same as for one piece
Assembled pole with slip joint connections: The accumulation of the slip
joint tolerances not to exceed – 6-inch, +12 inch
Pole Diameter -0 inch, +1/4 inch
Pole End Squareness ±1/2 inch per foot of pole diameter

Pole Sweep 1/8 inch per 10 feet of pole length

Limit twist to 1°/10' of length, not to exceed 4°/tube segment. Overall
structure twist shall be limited to 10° for embedded and 6° for base
Pole Twist
plated structures. Connections for all appurtenances to the pole shall
account for the pole twist and should align vertically.
Slip Joint tolerances Tolerances per manufacturer’s recommendations and total pole
length requirements above. See Paragraph 5.g.

Pole Taper See paragraph 5.a.(2)(c) .

Location of Groups of ±1.0 inches

Bolt Holes from Top of (tolerance to dimension A,
Pole Figure 2)
Location of Centerline ±1.0 inch
Between Groups of (tolerance to dimension B,
Bolt Holes Figure 2)

Location of Holes ±1/8 inch

Within a Group of Bolt (tolerance to dimension C,
Holes Figure 2)

Bolt Hole Diameter See Paragraph 5.c.(12) for hole diameters

Not to vary from the longitudinal pole centerline of that group of
Bolt Hole Alignment
holes by more than 1/16 inch
Location of
±2.0 inch
Identification Plate
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 12

e. Grounding

(1) A grounding connection shall be welded to the pole shaft, 18 inches above
the groundline or 6 inches above the ground collar. The grounding
connection will be either the two-hole National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA) pad, or a nut, or a threaded insert installed in the pole,
or an approved alternative.

(2) Grounding pad face shall not be painted or covered with other coatings.
The grounding nut thread and grounding pad threads shall be protected from
coatings.

(3) Threaded inserts installed for grounding shall be made of Type 316 stainless
steel and provided with standard ½ inch, 13 UNC threads (Unified Coarse
threads). Threads shall be protected from unapproved coatings.

f. Climbing Devices

(1) Design Loads:

(a) Step Bolts and removable steps: The step bolts, removable steps
and attachment to the pole shall be designed to support a minimum
of a 300-pound worker and equipment multiplied by a load factor
as defined in paragraph 5.f.(2). The load shall be at the outer edge
of the step or bolt.

(b) Removable Ladders: The ladder and each attachment to the pole
shall be designed to support a minimum of a 300-pound worker
and equipment multiplied by a load factor as defined in paragraph
5.f.(2). The load shall be at the outer edge of the step or bolt.

(2) Load Factor: A load factor of 2.0 shall be applied to the design loads in
5.6.1. These loads shall be supported without permanent deformation.

(3) Location: Climbing devices shall start 8 feet above groundline and extend
to the pole top unless specified by the owner. The climbing device shall be
spaced such that each step is 1 foot 6 inches apart and orientated to provide
maximum ease of climbing. They shall be located to avoid interference
with other attachments.

(4) Finish: Step bolts, removable steps, and removable ladders shall be hot
dipped galvanized. For weathering steel poles, step bolts may be
weathering steel.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 13

(5) Intent of steps/ladder: This system is intended for climbing the pole and
working on the structure. It is not intended to replace the worker's fall
arrest system.

g. Splices

(1) Poles shall be designed with a minimum number of joints. Field welding
shall not be allowed as part of the design of a new pole. The shaft joints to be
made in the field shall be slip joints or bolted flange joints. Slip joints shall
be designed for a nominal lap that will develop the full required design
strength of the pole at that point. The minimum lap shall meet the
requirements of ASCE 48. All welds on both sections of the pole, in the area
of the splice, shall be complete penetration welds for at least a length equal to
the maximum lap dimension.

(2) Manufacturer shall verify slip joint fit, through dimensional measurement or
actual fit-up, before shipment. Joints should not interfere with threaded
inserts, step nuts, ladder clips, or jacking nuts.

(3) Sufficient jacking lugs and permanent orientation marks shall be provided
at all slips joints to ensure proper alignment and complete overlap of the
joint.

(4) The axis of the pole shall not be distorted after the pole is mated. Shims
shall not be allowed to straighten the pole unless approved by the owner.
The owner reserves the right to reject a pole based on the improper mating
of a pole splice.

h. Appurtenances

(1) Appurtenance material shall be supplied by the owner. The owner shall
provide the pole manufacturer connector and/or member locations,
orientations, size, types, and strength capacities.

(2) The steel pole manufacturer and the owner shall work together to assure
design coordination and fit up of all appurtenance connections and members
to poles. Also refer to paragraph 5.a.(8) of this specification.

i. Finishes

(1) The following finishes are acceptable: Galvanizing, zinc primer combined
with paint, weathering steel, and a below grade coating.

(a) Galvanizing – All poles and structural components which are hot-
dip galvanized shall meet all the requirements of ASTM A123 or
ASTM A153. Measures shall be taken to prevent warping and
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 14

distortion according to ASTM A384 and to prevent embrittlement

according to ASTM A143. Poles made of ASTM A588 steel shall
not be galvanized due to the high silicon content of the steel. One
gallon of zinc enriched paint shall be provided with each five poles.

(b) Zinc Primer and Painting - Poles which are to be painted shall be
hermetically sealed to prevent corrosion of interior surfaces. After
shot or sand blasting and cleaning in accordance with the surface
preparations specification, SSPC/NACE SP-6/NACE 3, a zinc
primer of 3 mils dry film thickness (DFT) and two coats of finish
paint, each 3 mils DFT shall be applied to all exterior surfaces in
accordance with the paint supplier's recommendations. One gallon
each of primer and finish paint shall be supplied with each five
poles. A guarantee against flaking or fading of the paint for a
minimum of 5 years shall be provided.

(c) Weathering Steel - Steel shall conform to ASTM A588 or A871.

After fabrication, poles made of weathering steel shall be cleaned
of oil, scale, etc., in accordance with the surface preparation
specification SSPC/NACE SP-6/NACE 3, to ensure uniform and
rapid formation of the protective oxide layer.

(d) Coatings for the Embedded Portion of the Pole A minimum 16 mil
DFT of two component hydrocarbon extended polyurethane coating
that is resistant to ultraviolet light shall be applied on the exposed
surface of the embedded portion of the pole. The coating shall
extend from the butt to 2 inches below the top of the ground collar,
or 16 inches above groundline. Other coatings shall be approved by
the owner prior to their use. One-quart container of touch up shall
be provided with each five poles.

(2) Bolts and nuts with yield strengths under 100,000 psi shall be hot-dip
galvanized per ASTM A153 and ASTM A143, or mechanically coated with
zinc in accordance with ASTM B695, Class 50. Bolting materials with
yield strengths in excess of 100,000 psi shall not be hot-dip galvanized.
Instead, they shall be painted with zinc enriched paint or mechanically
coated with zinc per ASTM B695, Class 50. Bolts and nuts made from
weathering steel do not require a galvanizing coating.

(3) Compliance with coating thickness requirements shall be checked with a

magnetic thickness gauge.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 15

j. Markings

(1) Each Pole shall be permanently marked on the pole shaft 60 inches above
groundline and on the bottom side of the bearing plate with the following
identifying information, unless specified otherwise by the owner:

• Manufacturer’s name
• Month and year of manufacture
• Length and class of pole
• Ultimate moment capacity of the pole
• Owner’s name
• Pole weight

(2) The identification information listed above shall be permanently marked on

the transverse side of the pole. The method of identification shall be
approved by the owner. The lettering shall be at least 3/4 inch in height.

(3) Information on the butt of the pole may be with permanent paint applied
with a 1/2-inch-wide brush. Paint identification markings may not be used
in any other location.

(4) Each section of a spliced pole shall be marked such that the intended mate
section can be easily identified. The markings shall be permanent and
legible and contain at least the following information:

• Pole Length and Class (each section and total pole); and

• Structure number (if known).

k. Inspection and Testing

(1) The owner and the owner’s representative shall have free entry at all times
during fabrication, to all parts of the manufacturer’s plant to inspect any
part of the production of the poles covered by this specification.

(2) Steel members that are bent or warped or otherwise improperly fabricated
shall be properly repaired or replaced at the sole discretion of the owner.

(3) The cost of tests made by the manufacturer (except full scale load tests on
poles), including cost of the certified test reports shall be considered
included in the bid price.

(4) The manufacturer shall make tests in accordance with ASTM A370 and
A673 to verify that the material used in the structures meets the impact
properties.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 16

(5) Mill test reports showing chemical and physical properties of all material
furnished under this specification shall be maintained by the manufacturer
for a period of 5 years and shall be traceable to the pole.

(6) All plates over 1-1/2 inches thick shall be ultrasonically tested to assure
against defects that could lead to lamellar tearing.

(7) Qualification of welders or welding operators will be verified as to

conformance with the provisions of AWS D1.1.

(8) The manufacturer shall make certified welding reports for each pole. The
reports covering welding shall include all welds of a pole. Each weld shall
be clearly identified; and the report shall consist of the method of testing,
whether the weld is acceptable, the identification of the pole, the date, and
the name and signature of the inspector.

l. Full Scale Structure Testing

(1) The poles that are to have full-scale load tests performed on them are listed
in Attachment B. Cost for such test shall be the responsibility of the owner,
shall be separated from the manufacturer’s bid, and shall be negotiated in
advance of any test preparation.

(2) Details of the test procedures and methods of measuring and recording test
loads and deflections shall be specified by the manufacturer prior to testing
and shall be subject to the review and approval of the owner or the owner’s
representative.

(3) Deflections shall be recorded in the transverse and longitudinal directions

when applicable. Deflection measurements shall be taken under the no load
condition both before and after testing.

(4) Material procurement for test poles shall be identical to material

procurement procedures for regular production run poles.

(5) A full report listing results shall be submitted after completion of all testing.
Copies of mill test reports shall be included in the load test report. The
report shall also include a complete description of the load tests with
diagrams and photographs.

(6) The owner or the owner’s representative reserves the right to be present
during testing and shall be notified 2 weeks prior to the start of pole test.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 17

6. SHIPPING AND DELIVERY

a. Shipping

(1) Each shipment shall be accompanied by a bill of materials, identifiable by

pole type and number. Bolts and miscellaneous hardware will be identified
by the list for match up with the respective pole shaft. All parts that are
required for any one pole shall be in one shipment, if possible.

(2) The owner and owner’s representative shall be notified prior to shipment
that such shipment is to take place, and they reserve the right to inspect the
components prior to shipment. The notification shall give quantities,
weight, name of common carrier used, and expected time of arrival.

(3) Salt-treated wood blocking and urethane foams shall not be used when
shipping or storing weathering steel poles.

(4) Transportation and site handling shall be performed with acceptable

equipment and methods by qualified personnel. The manufacturer shall
exercise precaution to protect poles against damage in transit.

(5) Handling instructions shall be included with the pole shipment (if special
handling is required).

b. Delivery

(1) The owner may take delivery at a designated location with the delivering
carrier’s equipment. The manufacturer shall coordinate with the owner to
ensure smooth and efficient delivery of poles.

(2) The owner will provide all labor, equipment, and materials for the
unloading of poles at the project site. A pole is considered delivered when
the pole is lifted from the trailer or semitrailer of the delivery carrier.

7. DRAWINGS AND INFORMATION TO BE SUPPLIED BY THE

MANUFACTURER

a. Information to be supplied with the proposal (See Attachment C)

(1) Pole diameter at the top, groundline, and bottom.

(2) The pole taper of each pole in inches/foot.
(3) The calculated weight of each class and length of pole.
(4) General information about each pole length and class including tip load,
location of point of fixity, type of steel used for the pole (ASTM number
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 18

and yield), cross sectional shape, and connection details of multiple piece
poles (slip joints/flange joints/welded to be one piece).

(5) Calculated groundline and point-of-fixity reactions due to the tip loadings
(including shear, moment, and axial reactions) in order to demonstrate
conformance with the requirements of 5.1.1 and 5.1.2.

(6) Description of pole shaft cross section including thickness of the plate at
the bottom, groundline, and at the top.

(7) For each standard class pole, provide pole top deflection using the
specified tip loading in order to demonstrate conformance with the
requirements of and 5.1.3.

(8) The cost of each pole by size and length. Also, the total order cost for
each class and length of pole.

b. Documentation to be supplied for the Owner’s Approval Prior to Fabrication (as

requested by the owner): Documentation includes final design calculations for
the pole shaft at 5-foot intervals and will be based upon the pole loading shown in
Table 1.

The following information shall be supplied:

• Total shear forces

• Moment
• Design Stress, Allowable stress, and Stress ratio
• Section moduli
• Cross-sectional area
• Deflection at the pole top due to tip load
• Detail drawings for each structure type giving weights of structure
• Bill of materials list (if any)
• Assembly instructions and erection drawings
(Slip joint lengths and allowable tolerances)
• Special handling instructions (if required)

c. Test Reports (as requested).

• Certified mill test reports for all structural material.

• Certified welding reports for each pole.
• Impact property test reports showing that the material used in the poles meets
the impact properties.
• Test reports on coating thickness.
• Report of pole testing, when required, including photographs, and diagrams.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 19

8. APPROVALS, ACCEPTANCE AND OWNERSHIP

a. Final designs must be approved by the owner or owner’s representative before

material ordering and fabrication. Material ordering and fabrication prior to
approval will be at supplier’s risk. It is understood that award of this contract does
not constitute acceptance of design calculations submitted with the bid, if
corrections are required in the final structure designs due to manufacturer’s errors,
omissions, or misinterpretations of the specifications, the quoted price shall not
change. Approval of the drawings and calculations by the owner or the owner’s
Representative does not relieve the supplier of responsibility for the adequacy of
the design, correctness of dimensions, details on the drawings, and the proper fit of
parts.

b. After delivery, the poles will be inspected and shall be free of dirt, oil blisters, flux,
black spots, dross, teardrop edges, flaking paint or zinc; and in general, shall be
smooth, attractive, and unscarred. Poles not meeting this requirement shall be
repaired or replaced by the manufacturer at no additional cost to the owner. Final
decision to repair rather than replace a pole shall be at the owner’s sole discretion.

c. All final drawings shall become the property of the owner, who shall have full
rights to reproduce drawings and use them as the owner sees fit.

9. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS TO THIS SPECIFICATION:

Attachment A, and B to be completed by the engineer. Attachment C to be completed by

the manufacturer.

• Attachment A, Structure Dimensions and Pole Framing Drawings

• Attachment B, Application Requirements
• Attachment C, Bid Summary
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 20

Attachment A
Structure Dimensions and Pole Framing Drawings
(To be Completed by the Engineer)
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 21

BLANK PAGE
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 22

Attachment B. Application Requirements

(To be Completed by the Engineer)

1. Type of finish of the pole (indicate by checking one)

Weathering____________________________
Galvanized____________________________
Zinc primer and paint____________________

2. Special Charpy requirements _______ _________________________________

3. Surface protection desired for embedded portion of the pole (indicate by checking one
or both)
Polyurethane Coating____________________
Anodes_______________________________

4. Climbing device type (indicate by checking one)

Step Bolts_____________________________
Ladder _____________________________
Removable Steps_______________________

5. Location of climbing device _____________________________________

6. Length of ground collar _____________________________________

7. Grounding plate or nut _____________________________________

8. Delivery schedule _____________________________________

9. Free on board destination ___________________________________

10. Pole test (if required) ______________________________

11. Additional Requirements (below) ____________________________

 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 23

BLANK PAGE
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 24

Attachment C. Standard Class Steel Pole Bid Summary

Standard Class Steel Pole Bid Summary

(Information to be supplied with the bid)

DESIGN INFORMATION
Pole framing drawing
Pole Class
Pole Length
POLE DESCRIPTION
Top Diameter
Groundline Diameter
Bottom Diameter
Taper (in/ft)
GENERAL
Pole Wt/ each
Tip Load
Point of Fixity Loc
Steel (ASTM/yield )
Cross section shape
Splice joint type
CALCULATIONS AT THE GROUNDLINE
Moment
Shear
Axial
Cross Sectional Area
CALCULATIONS AT THE POINT OF FIXITY
Moment
Shear
Axial
Cross Sectional Area
WALL THICKNESS
Top
Groundline
Bottom
DEFLECTION (Top)
COST SUMMARY
COST/POLE
NUMBER OF POLES
TOTAL COSTS
COMMENTS: TRANSMISSION LINE POLES
ATTACHMENT C
BID SUMMARY – DESIGN INFORMATION,WEIGHTS,
AND PRICE INFORMATION
(INFORMATION TO BE SUPPLIED
WITH THE PROPOSAL)
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Page 25

BLANK PAGE
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 1

APPENDIX A
COMMENTARY

1. General

The necessity of a clear bid specification for the purchase of standard class steel poles is
very important to the bid evaluation process and the acquisition of structurally adequate
poles. The specification should contain sufficient requirements and information so that all
bids can be evaluated equally and so that the manufacturer clearly understands what is
expected of the manufacturer.

Scope

While use of this standard class steel pole specification is not prohibited to poles which are
guyed, which are subjected to unbalanced lateral loads or which have deflection or other
special limitations, the owner must be prudent when using this specification in these types
of applications.

It is recognized that, with the proper understanding and usage of some computerized
structural analysis and transmission line design programs, it is possible to select a standard
class steel pole which might otherwise be beyond the scope of this specification. The
owner must be sure that combined bending and buckling analysis is performed, and that
deflections are properly modeled.

The owner should recognize when the design of a steel pole may be more prudently
accomplished using the “Guide Specification for Steel Single Pole and H-Frame
Structures,” RUS Bulletin 1724E-204, which requires the actual loading conditions to be
specified. In using RUS Bulletin 1724E-204, the manufacturer assumes full responsibility
in designing and manufacturing a structurally adequate pole.

Standard Class Pole

In some cases, utilities prefer to specify certain steel poles to be designed according to
standardized loading criteria, much like the standard classifications for wood poles.

In utilizing standard class steel poles, a complete structural analysis is still required for all
structures. All appropriate loading criteria are considered in the analysis. Once the
required steel pole strength is determined, a standard class steel pole that meets the actual
loading conditions can be selected. A complete design example is shown in Appendix C.

Without considering all the potential reasons for specifying standard class poles, this
specification is developed in order to establish a standard classification system and to assist
the owner in procuring a standard class steel pole which is properly designed for the
intended loading criteria.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 2

This guide specification attempts to eliminate ambiguity in specifying and purchasing

standard class steel poles. Since it has become a widespread practice in the industry to
design and manufacture poles which are based on the wood pole classification system of
the American National Standards Institute (ANSI 05.1), the steel pole classifications
developed in this specification generally follow the wood pole classification system.
However, to avoid confusion with the wood pole classifications, the steel pole
classifications have a unique naming system.

Wood Pole Equivalency

In some cases, the owner may design a transmission line based on wood pole
classifications as described in ANSI 05.1 and then wish to order steel poles which meet the
wood pole equivalent loadings. Because of the differences in strength factors applied to
wood poles in comparison to steel poles, the owner must be sure that the strength factors
are properly accounted for in the design of the steel poles.

“Wood pole equivalent” is a term that may be defined in a number of ways. For purposes
of this commentary, the term “wood pole equivalent” is defined as a standard class steel
pole which is equated by required factored loading to an ANSI 05.1 standard class wood
pole. The equation is made by a ratio of the strength factors applicable for each pole type
and loading criteria.

The design and purchase of steel poles as an equivalent to wood poles can be vague even
with clear instructions. As such, the owner should be sure that the equivalency is properly
determined. Once the equivalency is determined, the owner should specify the standard
class steel pole based on the classifications detailed in paragraph 5.a.(2). In doing this, the
manufacturer will not be involved in the equivalency process and the ambiguity should be
eliminated.

The wood pole equivalency is based on the required ultimate moment capacity of the pole
at the groundline based on embedment depths shown in ANSI 05.1. In obtaining a suitable
equivalency, the owner must consider factors other than the equivalent groundline
moment. For example, the differences in material and section properties of the wood pole
versus the steel pole will result in differences in buckling analysis, pole deflections,
secondary moments, applied wind forces, etc.

It is impossible to completely equate the steel pole and wood pole at all points along the
pole. The owner must be certain that the steel pole selected by equivalency methods will
have strength sufficient for the actual application.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 3

Equivalency Factor (Eq.F)

The equivalency factor (Eq.F) is defined as the ratio of the wood pole strength factor to the
steel pole strength factor for a given loading condition.

For example, for NESC Grade B district loading, the wood pole strength factor is 0.65 and
the steel pole strength factor is 1.00. Thus, the equivalency factor will be 0.65/1.00 =
0.650.

The equivalency factor is a useful concept to understand as the owner requires a wood pole
equivalent under various loading conditions and strength factors. Several examples of
equivalencies are listed in the following sections.

Wood Pole Equivalency – 0.65 TO 1.00 Ratio (0.65 Eq.F)

For the NESC Grade B district loadings, the NESC allows for a strength factor of 1.00 to
be applied to a load on a steel pole while it requires a strength factor of 0.65 to be applied
to a load on a wood pole. As such, the ultimate strength requirement for the steel pole will
be less than the ultimate strength of the wood pole for the district loading conditions.

For example, the owner designs a transmission line for wood poles based on NESC district
wind loading conditions. The owner wishes to purchase a steel pole that is equivalent to a
Class 1 wood pole. Based on ANSI 05.1, the Class 1 wood pole groundline strength is
derived by applying a horizontal factored load of 4,500 pounds at 2 feet from the pole top
based on a simple cantilever. Since the owner had classed the wood pole based on an
NESC strength factor of 0.65, the owner wishes to select a steel pole meeting the same
NESC district wind loading conditions. To do this, the owner will multiply the required tip
loading of 4,500 pounds by 0.65/1.00, which equals 2,925 pounds. The 0.65/1.00 ratio (or
0.65 Eq.F) adjusts for the difference between wood and steel strength factors. The owner
will then select a standard class steel pole which has an ultimate moment capacity based on
the horizontal tip loading of at least 2,925 pounds. From paragraph 5.a.(2), the owner
selects a class S-02.9 pole, which has a tip loading of 2,925 pounds.

Based on the method shown in this example, Table A-1 of this Appendix at the end of this
section is a tabulation of wood pole equivalencies based on the NESC Grade B district
loading.

Wood Pole Equivalency - 0.75 to 1.00 Ratio (0.75 Eq.F)

For the NESC Grade B extreme wind loadings, this specification requires a strength factor
of 1.00 to be applied to an extreme wind load on a steel pole while the NESC requires a
strength factor of 0.75 to be applied to an extreme wind load on a wood pole. As such, the
ultimate strength requirement for the steel pole will be less than the ultimate strength of the
wood pole for the NESC extreme wind loading conditions.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 4

For example, the owner designs a transmission line for wood poles based on NESC
extreme wind loading conditions. The owner wishes to purchase a steel pole that is
equivalent to a Class 1 wood pole. Based on ANSI 05.1, the Class 1 wood pole groundline
strength is derived by applying a horizontal factored load of 4,500 pounds at 2 feet from
the pole top based on a simple cantilever. Since the owner had classed the wood pole
based on an NESC extreme wind strength factor of 0.75, the owner wishes to select a steel
pole meeting the same extreme wind loading conditions. To do this, the owner will
multiply the required tip loading of 4,500 pounds by 0.75/1.00, which equals 3,375
pounds. The 0.75/1.00 ratio (or 0.75 Eq.F) adjusts for the difference between wood and
steel extreme wind strength factors. The owner will then select a standard class steel pole
which has an ultimate moment capacity based on the horizontal tip loading of at least
3,375 pounds. From paragraph 5.1.2, the owner selects a class S-03.5 pole, which has a tip
loading of 3,510 pounds.
Based on the method shown in this example, Table A-2 at the end of this section is a
tabulation of wood pole equivalencies based on the NESC Grade B extreme wind loading.
Wood Pole Equivalency – 1 to 1 Ratio (1.0 Eq.F)
The owner may wish to order a steel pole that has the same ultimate strength as a specified
wood pole class. One common application of this is when the owner designs a transmission
line using wood pole properties but utilizing steel pole strength factors. In this case, the
owner has accounted for the difference in wood versus steel strength factors during the
design of the project.
For example, the owner designs a transmission line for wood poles based on NESC district
wind loading conditions. However, for steel poles, the owner uses the NESC district
strength factor of 1.00 (applicable to steel poles) in the calculations. The owner selects a
wood pole Class 1 at a specific location. Thus, the owner wishes to purchase a steel pole
which is equivalent in ultimate strength to a Class 1 wood pole. Based on ANSI 05.1, the
Class 1 wood pole groundline strength is derived by applying a horizontal factored load of
4,500 pounds at 2 feet from the pole top based on a simple cantilever. Therefore, the
owner will require a steel pole with an ultimate moment capacity based on the same 4,500-
pound tip loading. From paragraph 5.a.(2), the owner selects a Class S-04.9 steel pole,
which has a tip loading of 4,875 pounds.

Based on the method shown in this example, Table A-3 is a tabulation of wood pole
equivalencies based on the ultimate-to-ultimate strength comparison, or 1.0 equivalency
factor.

Other Wood Pole Equivalencies

Using the wood pole equivalency methods described, the owner can develop equivalency
tables for other ratios of wood versus steel strength factors.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 5

TABLE A-1 - WOOD POLE EQUIVALENCY

BASED ON 0.65 to 1.00 RATIO
(0.65 Equivalency Factor)
(NESC Grade B District Loading)
(Equivalencies based on approximate groundline strength)
Design Select
Wood Pole Class Steel Pole Class
0.65 Strength Factor 1.00 Strength Factor
H6 S-07.4
H5 S-06.5
H4 S-05.7
H3 S-04.9
H2 S-04.2
H1 S-03.5
1 S-02.9
2 S-02.4
3 S-02.0

TABLE A-2 - WOOD POLE EQUIVALENCY

BASED ON 0.75 to 1.00 RATIO
(0.75 Equivalency Factor)
(NESC Grade B Extreme Loading)
(Equivalencies based on approximate groundline strength)
Design Select
Wood Pole Class Steel Pole Class
0.75 Strength Factor 1.00 Strength Factor

H6 S-09.0
H5 S-08.0
H4 S-06.5
H3 S-05.7
H2 S-04.9
H1 S-04.2
1 S-03.5
2 S-02.9
3 S-02.4
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 6

TABLE A-3 - WOOD POLE EQUIVALENCY

BASED on 1:1 RATIO
(1.0 Equivalency Factor)
(Ultimate-to-Ultimate Comparison)
(Equivalencies based on approximate groundline strength)
Design Select
Wood Pole Class Steel Pole Class

H6 S-12.0
H5 S-10.0
H4 S-09.0
H3 S-08.0
H2 S-06.5
H1 S-05.7
1 S-04.9
2 S-04.2
3 S-03.5

2. Design - Section 5

Loads - Paragraph 5.a

The primary loads for steel poles are weather loads. Weather, construction and
maintenance loads need to be determined by the owner in order to select the proper
standard class pole.

Load factors for NESC light, medium, and heavy loading districts should be at least equal
to those given in the applicable edition of NESC for Grade B construction. The load factor
for extreme ice and extreme wind is recommended to be at least 1.1.

In addition to using the NESC district loading requirements, the ASCE publication No. 74,
“Guidelines for Transmission Line Structure Loading,” can be used to provide owners with
procedures for the selection of design loads and load factors related to climate, accidents,
construction and maintenance.

Once the design loadings have been determined, a design of the structure should be
performed by the owner’s engineer or structural designer. It is recommended that a
nonlinear structural analysis computer program be utilized in order to consider the
loadings, secondary moments (p-delta effect), and effects of foundation rotations and
deflections. As a minimum, an approximate method for determining the ultimate moment
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 7

capacity should be utilized, such as the methods given in the “Design Manual for High
Voltage Transmission Lines,” RUS Bulletin 1724E-200.

Once the structural analysis has been completed, the owner’s engineer or structural
designer may select a standard class steel pole which has the ultimate moment capacity
greater than the design loading requirements. Consideration should be given for strength
requirements at all points along the pole, not just at the groundline.

P-Delta Moment

Prior to selecting a standard class steel pole, the owner should determine the effect of the
secondary moments due to the vertical loadings, including the effect of the pole weight,
during the transmission line design process.

Whenever there is a transverse or longitudinal load, the pole will deflect in the direction of
the load. As a result, the vertical load is no longer in its original position. The vertical
load moves over as the pole deflects, causing additional moments in the pole. Also, the
pole weight can place secondary moment loads in the pole. The additional stress caused
by this secondary moment is dependent on the magnitude of the vertical load and deflected
shape of the pole. Many pole designs, particularly tall poles, have to be calculated for the
position of equilibrium of forces in the fully displaced position. The solution typically
takes many iterations. A full nonlinear analysis will consider the change in orientation of
the loads relative to the displaced positions of the structural members.

As a minimum, an approximate method for determining the effect of the secondary

moments should be utilized, such as the method given in the RUS Bulletin 1724E-200.

Foundation Rotation and Deflection

Although significant foundation rotation and deflection criteria are considered to be

beyond the scope of this standard class steel pole specification, some allowances can be
made for these effects. They should be considered during the owner’s analysis of the
actual loading conditions to apply to the steel pole. Typically, this type of analysis is
accomplished by nonlinear structural analysis techniques.

Once the structural analysis has been completed (including foundation rotations and
deflections, p-delta effect, etc.), the owner may select a standard class steel pole that has
the ultimate moment capacity greater than the design loading requirements.

Longitudinal Loads

It is recommended that RUS Bulletin 1724E-204 be utilized whenever the longitudinal

loads may result in a significant unbalanced lateral loading condition.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 8

Because steel poles are flexible structures, there may be a reduction in induced moments in
a pole under some types of longitudinal loads due to the restraining effect of the overhead
ground wires. Traditionally, static longitudinal loads are specified due to the complexity
of calculating the influence of structure flexibility.

Guyed Poles and Guy Wires

It is generally beyond the scope of this standard class steel pole specification to consider
guyed poles and guy wires in the design of the structure. It is recommended that RUS
Bulletin 1724E-204 be utilized instead.

It is generally agreed that a steel pole has less buckling strength than an equivalently
classed wood pole. Wood poles are solid wood and the material in the heart of the pole
can resist buckling. Standard class steel poles however, are thin walled, hollow structures
with limited buckling strength. The forces resulting from the attachment of the guy wires
to the standard class steel pole needs to be carefully analyzed by a structural engineer. The
steel pole and guy wire(s) must be designed as a system.

Any time a steel pole structure is guyed, the guy type, size, modulus of elasticity and guy
slope or angle has to be determined by the owner and properly modeled in the analysis of
the steel structure. The load in the guy wire should be limited to 65 percent of its ASTM
rated breaking strength under actual factored loading conditions, as is required by RUS
Bulletin 1724E-204. The steel pole and guy wire(s) must be designed as a system. The
guy modulus of elasticity can increase from a minimum value at the time of manufacture,
to a maximum value that results from periodic stretching and relaxing during the load
cycles. Ranges from 19,000 ksi to 28,000 ksi have been stated. The ASCE steel pole
specification (ASCE 48) has suggested the engineer use a guy wire modulus of elasticity of
23,000 ksi whenever it is not specified.

The owner should use caution in using this equivalency method of sizing standard class
steel poles and its usage should be prudently influenced by the owner’s experience in
similar applications where actual design loadings were utilized under similar guying
conditions. However, a typical situation where the owner may wish to use this
specification for guyed poles is when the owner uses a transmission line design computer
program, or other structural analysis program, in which minimum strength values are input
for each pole type and the program is capable of combined bending and buckling analysis
of guyed steel poles.

Point of Fixity - Paragraph 5.a.(1)

Point of fixity for this specification is defined as the location on the pole where maximum
moment occurs. Maximum moment is calculated by the pole designer using the loadings
provided by the owner and multiplying those loadings by the appropriate moment arms.
The existing soil and backfill has to be able to support the pole with these bending
moments applied. The location of this point of fixity could be at or below the groundline.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 9

The exact location is theoretical and depends on the soil condition and backfill used to
support the pole.

For the standard class pole, the point of fixity should remain at the same location on the
pole, regardless of the embedment depth the owner may specify for a given application.
Otherwise, the required pole strength could vary as the location of the point of fixity
varies. Within the scope of this standard class pole specification, the point of fixity is
arbitrarily considered to be located at a distance from the pole butt that is equal to 7
percent of the pole length. This value seems to work quite well over a range of pole
lengths and is approximately the same value as a point of fixity located at 1/3 of the
distance below the groundline based on an embedment depth of 10 percent of the pole
length + 2 feet.

Pole Top Strength (Paragraph 5.a.(2)(a)

This specification sets minimum ultimate moment capacity requirements near the pole top
for each standard pole classification. The similar ANSI 05.1 requirement is generally
overlooked, misunderstood or not considered by manufacturers and others who seek to
standardize pole sizes based on the wood pole classifications.

Upon a careful study of the ANSI 05.1 wood pole specification, one should understand that
the horizontal loading applied at 2 feet from the pole top is for the purpose of determining
a required groundline ultimate moment capacity for any length pole of the given class.
However, the minimum required wood pole top size is specified apart from the horizontal
loading requirement

For example, according to ANSI 05.1, a Class 1 wood pole must have a circumference of
27 inches at the top. When applied to the Douglas Fir or Southern Yellow Pine poles with
a fiber stress of 8,000 psi, the resulting top strength is calculated as 41.5 ft-kips for the
Class 1 wood pole.

Because the conductors and shield wire supports are typically located on crossarms away
from the pole axis, significant moments can be generated in the pole near the top. The
moments are greatly increased whenever a braced pole top assembly is utilized. These
moments are not accounted for by applying the horizontal factored loading alone.
Therefore, in the design of transmission poles, it is critical that a minimum ultimate
moment capacity be specified near the pole top. In the absence of a minimum top strength
requirement, a steel pole top strength can theoretically be negligible.

The minimum pole top strength required by this specification should be suitable for most
transmission line applications. However, the owner must be sure that the top strength is
properly evaluated, especially when working with wood pole equivalencies and braced
structures.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 10

Tip Loading (Paragraph 5.a.(2)(b)

The tip loading is used to develop a required ultimate moment capacity diagram at any
point along the pole from 2 feet below the pole top down to the point-of-fixity. This
ultimate moment capacity is determined by multiplying the tip load by the moment arm
based on a simple cantilever. As a result, the required factored moment diagram is linear
in shape. This same method may be utilized in structural analysis and automated
transmission line design computer programs to develop an array of factored moment
requirements for standard steel pole sizes.

Pole Deflection - Paragraph 5.a.(3)

Although significant horizontal pole deflection limitations are considered to be beyond the
scope of this standard class steel pole specification, some allowances can be made for these
effects. They should be considered during the analysis of the actual loading conditions
applied to the steel pole. Typically, this type of analysis should be accomplished by
nonlinear structural analysis techniques. Since the electrical clearances must be assured in
the operation of transmission lines, deflections must remain within an acceptable range.

This specification limits the allowable pole deflection to 15 percent of the pole height
above the point of fixity when the tip load specified in paragraph 5.a.(2) is applied under a
horizontal testing procedure.

The owner should recognize that the actual pole deflection for the application will be less
than the specified deflection limit of 15 percent of the pole height. With the standard class
pole, all of the loading is applied near the pole top. In a typical transmission line
application, the actual horizontal loading will be some distance from the pole top. As
such, the actual deflection at the conductor under short term factored loading conditions
can be expected to be less than 10 percent of the height above ground.

The NESC requires that electrical clearances be maintained under a wind loading of 6 psf.
It is expected that the deflection of a standard class pole under this 6 psf loading condition
will be less than 3 percent of the height above ground.

For situations where the owner wishes to know the deflection for a standard class pole, the
owner should use a suitable structural analysis computer program in which the actual
design loading conditions and steel pole properties are input into the program, or the owner
should ask the pole manufacturer to provide the analysis.

If the owner has special deflection limitations, it is recommended that RUS Bulletin
1724E-204 be utilized instead of this specification. In doing so, there will be little doubt as
to what the actual pole deflections will be under all loading conditions.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 11

Minimum Plate Thickness - Paragraph 5.a.(7)

The intent of this guide is not to limit new technology. Use of plate thickness less than
3/16 inch may be possible. However, consensus from the committee members and based
on current designs by the manufacturers, transmission size poles will normally require at
least a plate thickness of 3/16 inch. If mild corrosion occurs, the percentage of reduced
strength will be less the greater the wall thickness of the steel plate. Having the minimum
plate thickness of 3/16 inch will also improve strength for mounting of davit arms and guy
attachments. If an owner does decide to purchase poles with a wall thickness less than
3/16-inch, extra care should be taken in the field to avoid damage to the pole during
storage, handling, and installation. Small nicks in the galvanizing or other protective
coating could exaggerate future problems. Also, minor misalignments or poor fit of
hardware during construction could cause a major problem. Ground collars on thin wall
poles should be considered a necessity. Other sections of this commentary explain why
poles purchased with this guide should not be used in guying situations, unless an engineer
experienced with guyed steel structures oversees the design. This is especially true for
poles of wall thickness less than 3/16 inch.

Ground Collars - Paragraphs 5.a.(12) and 5.a.(13)

Attachment B of the specification is set up to allow the owner to alter the requirement for a
ground collar by putting “not required” on line 6. Ground collars are recommended for
direct embedded weathering steel poles, but they are sometimes optional with galvanized
steel poles. If ground collars are used, a length of 4 feet or greater is recommended.

The intent of ground collars on standard class steel poles is similar to the preservative of
wood poles. The preservative protects the wood against rot and fungus attack. Similarly,
the ground collar protects the steel pole from corrosion and mechanical damage.

The ground collar does not prevent nicks. The ground collar does provide nonstructural
steel that can be sacrificed to corrosion. Corrosion can be due to many outside causes over
which the owner has no control. A short list of potential causes includes road salt,
fertilizer, poor/corrosive soil, and galvanic corrosion from pipeline crossings or
underground electric lines. The ground collar also protects the pole from mechanical
damage that may occur during construction or later by right-of-way crew or by property
owners.

Whereas some utilities feel that galvanized poles with polyurethane coating do not need
additional corrosion and mechanical protection, they do feel that weathering steel poles
need additional protection to the patina and polyurethane coating. Some manufacturers
claim that poles that are galvanized and the embedded portion coated with polyurethane
coating (paragraph 5.i.(1)), do not require a ground collar. If nicks do occur to a
galvanized pole, the galvanizing will act like a sacrificial anode and protect the nicked
steel.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 12

ASCE 48 states that bare weathering steel should not be used below grade due to the
potential problems from corrosion. Some utilities add a round collar to all weathering steel
poles. Still other utilities in dry climates with non-corrosive soils may not use ground
collars. However, since the polyurethane coating can be nicked during construction, it is
recommended that round collars be used on all weathering steel poles.

Charpy Requirements - Paragraph 5.b.(3)

Charpy test is a notch-bar impact test used to compare notch sensitivities of materials. The
impact values cannot be converted into energy figures for use directly in engineering
design. The impact value from the notch-bar impact test is used only as a comparison test.
For example, if a type of steel has been found to have good notch toughness in service and
its impact value is known, it is assumed that other types of steel having the same impact
value will also have the same notch toughness. The ASCE design standard for steel poles
has established impact values for the Charpy notch-bar impact test. These values are a
function of yield stress, plate or bar thickness, and temperature.

Notch-bar impact tests are used to help determine if a normally ductile material might
behave in a brittle manner. Three main factors that influence if a material will behave in a
brittle or ductile manner are triaxiality, strain rate, and temperature. Ductile materials tend
to become more brittle as triaxiality increases, strain rate increases, or temperature
decreases. Since brittle materials require far less energy for fracture than ductile materials
of the same strength, one can realize the importance of the Charpy test for steel poles used
on transmission lines.

The tendency is to reduce temperature requirements of the Charpy test for structures to be
in service in warm climates such as Louisiana or Florida. This is not recommended.
However, for locations in which temperatures may be extremely low, lower temperature
values may need to be specified.

The ASCE design standard specification contains Charpy requirements for structural plate,
anchor bolts, and weld materials. The material used for making welds is required to meet
the impact requirements for the lowest toughness requirements of the plates being joined.

Field Drilled Holes - Paragraph 5.c.(16)

Drilling holes in a pole during construction allows the maximum flexibility in the use of
poles in unexpected situations. However, the cutting of the pole does affect the corrosion
protection of the pole. For galvanized poles and painted galvanized poles, a drilled hole
exposes bare steel to the weather. These holes need to be painted with a zinc rich touch up
paint similar to described in paragraph 5.i.(1)(a). For poles made from weathering steel
the hole can allow rain or ground water into the pole depending on the hole location.
Weathering steel poles protect themselves from corrosion by constantly cycling from wet
to dry. This cycling creates a water tight oxide layer. Inside the pole or under water the
cycling cannot happen. Therefore, there is no corrosion
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 13

protection inside the pole. When water enters the pole through the field drilled holes
corrosion starts. When field drilled holes are anticipated, the inside of weathering steel
pole should be coated similar to the coating described in paragraph 5.i.(1)(d). If coating
the inside is not practical then a thick coating of a silicon sealant shall be applied to the
bolt and hole. Field drilling of painted poles should be avoided if possible. Drilling
holes in painted poles destroys the water tightness and allows corrosion to start on the
unprotected carbon steel. If holes cannot be avoided then a thick coating of a silicon
sealant shall be applied to the bolt and hole.

Field Drilled Holes (wrong location/drilled in error)

Occasionally a field-drilled hole will end up in the wrong location. A rule of thumb from
The American Welding Society (AWS) says a defect or hole location is critical if another
hole is spaced within 2.5 times the diameter of the hole in question. (i.e. two 1 inch holes
should not be closer than 2 ½ inch edge to edge). A structural analysis of the actual
conditions will possibly give a different answer. If the location is critical then a field weld
repair is needed by a certified welder.

If the location is not critical then it can be filled with an automotive type freeze plug and
painted with touch up paint. The hole should be plugged to keep birds and insects out of
the pole and to slow or prevent corrosion to the inside of the pole. The above rule of
thumb does not apply to holes that are drilled at the correct elevation but on the wrong
face. These poles need to be reviewed by the manufacturer and repaired by a certified
welder or these poles need to be replaced.

Pole Materials (Galvanized Steel vs. Weathering Steel)

Structural grade steel is a great product for many reasons. However it has one definite
problem. Mother Nature wants to return it to its natural state of iron ore. Industry has used
many ways to slow the corrosion process. In 1836 a chemist patented a means for coating
iron with zinc. That process of hot dip galvanizing remains substantially unchanged today.
In the 1900's another method was found. By having a relatively high copper content in the
raw steel a dense patina oxide coating would form on the steel and act as a tight adhered
barrier preventing future atmospheric corrosion. This steel was largely forgotten until the
1960's when US Steel started marketing their version of this steel as "COR-TEN". Today
it is commonly called weathering steel.

The formation of dense patina oxide on weathering steel requires a cycling from wet to dry
environment - optimally 50 percent wet and 50 percent dry. Departure from the 50/50 ratio
will slow the oxide formation. Unfortunately, this limitation was not well understood in
the 1960's and weathering steel was used in locations where water and dirt were trapped.
The result was the oxide did not form and the corrosion continued as if the steel was
normal bare steel. In some cases such as highway bridges and lattice towers the corrosion
caused a problem that was given the name "pack-out". In this case the corrosion takes
place between two pieces of steel that are bolted together in such a configuration that water
is trapped and held. The corrosion products swell.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 14

Ultimately the forces from the swelling can exceed the strength of the bolts. This can
cause structural failure. As a result of this problem weathering steel developed a bad
reputation. However, with prudent attention to details, weathering steel is being used by
many utilities today.

Both galvanized steel and weathering steel have their advantages. Which is better is a
question that has not been answered. Weathering steel normally has a cost advantage and
can be factory welded to make a one-piece pole of any length. The one-piece length of
galvanized poles is limited to the length of the galvanizing tank. Weathering steel
becomes a dark brown wood color. A galvanized pole starts out shiny and ends up a dull
gray. Some people say that weathering steel should not be used in areas of heavy road salt
or in heavily fertilized farm fields. The weathering steel manufacturers found a number of
poles in undesirable conditions, tested them and found that the oxide had formed and that
corrosion was not a problem. This guide makes no judgment as to which material is better
or gives any guidance in the use of one versus the other. If correctly used both will
perform very well. If not used as intended, neither will perform as desired. It is
recommended that the owner contact the pole supplier to select the best material for the
pole's intended application.

Painted Poles

Painted bare steel poles are not recommended. These poles have more construction and
maintenance expenses than poles with paint over zinc primer or paint over hot dip
galvanizing. The inside surface of bare steel poles is not protected and the poles can
corrode from the inside out. Also the outside paint is easily chipped leaving bare steel
which may quickly corrode.

Weathering Steel Poles - Paragraphs 5.i.(1)(c) and 5.i.(1)(d)

There are environments where weathering steel is not recommended in a bare, uncoated
condition because the protective, tight oxide will not form properly. These environments
include: (1) atmospheres containing concentrated corrosive industrial fumes, (2) marine
locations subject to salt-water spray or salt-laden fogs, or (3) applications where the steel
may be continuously submerged in water (salt or fresh) or buried (bare) in soil. Use of
weathering steel poles near roads that are salted during the winter should be avoided.

In general, weathering steel is intended for and is most often used in a bare, uncoated
condition. However, those surfaces that will not be exposed to the weather or subjected to
a wet-dry cycle should be protected from corrosion. Flat, horizontal surfaces are
particularly vulnerable. Also, in areas where ground cover will grow to a height where it
will contact the pole and rub the protective weathering steel coat off or in areas where the
vegetation will keep the pole moist, the steel surface should be protected from corrosion by
application of a coating. For direct embedded steel poles, the polyurethane coating may
have to be extended above the top of the ground sleeve to protect the weathering steel pole
from moisture entrapped by vegetation or rubbing by groundcover.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 15

Direct Embedded Poles - Coating General - Paragraph 5.i.(1)(d)

When poles are direct embedded, this specification requires a polyurethane coating to be
applied to the exterior surface of the embedded portion of the pole. The top edge of the
coating is not a smooth transition. Water and dirt can get trapped in this area. Therefore,
we suggest that the transition be located about 2 inches below the top of the ground collar
where there is extra metal. Some poles get set in areas of high vegetation. These poles
may require the coating to extend higher on the pole. A full discussion of this is given
below.

Bearing Plate, Coatings, Construction in Wet Areas - Paragraph 5.i.(1)(d)

There are many problems associated with setting poles in wet areas and or bad soils. Two
of these problems are floating poles and bog or swamp shoes. The floating poles can be
due to the fact that some poles are designed without drain holes in the bearing plate. When
soil conditions require the use of driller’s mud during the augering process, the pole may
float and it is impossible to set it in the foundation unless the water is removed from the
hole, which may cause the sides of the hole to collapse. The pole could be set if there was
a hole in the bearing plate to allow the fluid into the pole. Galvanized poles are allowed to
have a drain hole in the bearing plate to facilitate the galvanizing process (paragraph
5.a.(10)). Weathering steel poles are not normally allowed to have this same hole due to
absence of corrosion protection inside the pole. Weathering steel poles should not be used
in areas where water/water table is above the base/bearing plate of a steel pole. The owner
may want to coat the inside of galvanized poles with a coating similar to that on the outside
of the pole and described in paragraph 5.i.(1)(d).

The problem of swamp or bog shoe is the method of attaching the device to the pole.
Normally this is done by drilling a hole through the pole and using a through bolt. The
problem is these bolts may be at or below water line. Therefore they let water into the pole.
This does not cause a major problem for galvanized poles. For weathering steel the steel
needs to cycle from wet to dry to create the corrosion protection. This cannot happen
under the above conditions. There are two solutions. One is to have the inside of the pole
coated as described above, the other is to have the manufacture install a water tight sleeved
hole at the location of the attachment bolts.

Structure Testing - Paragraph 5.L

An option is available in the specification for full scale testing of poles. For a
manufacturer that has been designing and fabricating steel poles with the same processes
for a good number of years, the need for testing of a steel pole is questionable. Pole testing
may be appropriate in cases where there are unusual requirements, new fabrication
techniques or, when new suppliers are used to validate their design.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix A
Page 16

3. MISCELLANEOUS DESIGN INFORMATION

Direct Embedded Poles Near Electric Generating Plants and Substations

Use of direct embedded steel poles should be evaluated for the first two spans outside of a
substation or generating plant. The large amount of copper used in a substation grounding
grid may create a galvanic corrosion cell, with the steel of the pole sacrificing itself.
Anodes or extra subsurface protection may be needed.

Additional Protection

The owner or owner's representative should determine if anodes should protect the
embedded poles. If it is necessary, requirements for sacrificial anodes and their installation
should be incorporated in the construction specification.

Electrical Grounding and Polyurethane Coating

When poles are direct embedded, this specification requires a polyurethane coating to be
applied to the exterior surface of the embedded portion of the pole. This coating will tend
to insulate the pole from the ground and as such, supplemental grounding may be
necessary.

Ground Rods

Use of copper or copper clad ground wire and rods should be avoided with direct
embedded poles. Galvanized rods and couplings are suggested.

4. SHIPPING - Paragraph 6.a.(3)

Lumber treated with salts (Ammoniacal copper arsenate, ACA, Ammoniacal copper zinc
arsenate, ACZA, and Chromated copper arsenate, CCA) to retard “decay or fire” will
chemically attack the steel. Urethane foam or some foam containing fire retardants
should not be used in packaging and shipping. When these materials become wet, they
become very corrosive.

5. DRAWINGS AND INFORMATION TO BE SUPPLIED BY THE

MANUFACTURER - Section 7

In order to properly evaluate bids, the specification requires certain information to be

supplied with the bid. This information may be supplied on the preliminary drawings from
the Bidder. If the forms in Attachment C are used, one will be able to quickly review the
information on the sample forms and simultaneously compare the information from the
different manufacturers.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix B
Page 1

APPENDIX B

EXAMPLES OF DRAWINGS
(Attachment A of the Specification)

STRUCTURE DIMENSIONS,
POLE FRAMING DRAWINGS, AND DETAILS
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix B
Page 2

Drawing TPS-115
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix B
Page 3

Drawing TPFS-115
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix B
Page 4

Drawing TM-S1
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix B
Page 5

Drawing TM-S2
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix B
Page 6

BLANK PAGE
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix C
Page 1

APPENDIX C. DESIGN EXAMPLES

Example 1: For the TUS-1 pole structure and loading conditions given below, determine the
standard class steel pole:

General information:
Line voltage: 161 kV
Design by: ACME Engineers
Structure type: TUS-1 Steel Pole Structures
(steel pole with upswept arms)
Geometry of the structure and location of loads:
Distance from Pole Top, Ft.
OHGW 0.25
COND-1 9.00
COND-2 15.00
COND-3 21.00
At Gd. Line-assumed 70.00
Pole-End 80.00
Crossarm Dimensions:
Top arm 8.5 ft
Middle arm 9.5 ft
Bottom arm 9.5 ft
Overall pole length is 80 feet. The above dimensions assume a 10.0 foot
embedment depth for the steel pole (using standard rule for wood poles
of 10 percent pole length plus 2 feet). Assume top of the pole has a
10 inch diameter, and the groundline diameter is 20 inches.

Load Factors (LFs) used in this example:

For NESC Light, Medium, or Heavy Loading District Loads
Vertical Loads 1.50
Transverse. Wind Loads 2.50
Transverse. Wire Tension Load at Line 1.65
Angle
Longitudinal Loads 1.10
Extreme Wind Loads 1.10
Extreme Ice with Concurrent Wind Loads 1.10

Conductor and OHGW Data:

OHGW: 3/8”HSS
R.B.S = 10,800 lbs
161 kV Conductor: Drake (795 26/7 ACSR)
R.B.S = 31,500 lbs
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix C
Page 2

Design Span Information:

Vertical Span 900 ft.
Horizontal Span 750 ft.
Line Angle 0 degrees

Load Cases:
Load Case A: NESC Medium District Loads
Load Case B: 90 mph Extreme Wind Load (1.1 LF applied)
Load Case C: 30 mph with 1 inch ice load (1.1 LF applied)
Loading Information (summary):

NESC Medium Loading Data

Transverse Vertical
Cond. Tension (kips) lb./ft. lb./ft.
Drake –795 26/7 ACSR 7.91 .5360 1.5162
OHGW – 3/8 HSS 2.56 .2867 .4626

Extreme Wind Loading Data (90 mph)

Transverse Vertical
Cond. Tension (kips) lb./ft. lb./ft.
Drake –795 26/7 ACSR 6.54 1.9390 1.0940
OHGW – 3/8 HSS 1.23 .6210 .2730

Extreme Wind with Concurrent Ice (30 mph wind and 1” ice)
Transverse Vertical
Cond. Tension (kips) lb./ft. lb./ft.
Drake –795 26/7 ACSR 12.54 .5967 3.7154
OHGW – 3/8 HSS 5.27 .4532 1.9642
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix C
Page 3
Calculate forces and moments at the groundline: (assumes no pole rotation)
• NESC Medium District Loading
Load Due Load Due to Total Moment Factored Moments
to Wind on Line Angle Transverse Arm Feet Ft. kips
Wire (kips) Load W/LF @ Groundline
(kips) (kips)
OHGW .215 0 .538 69.75 37.5
COND-1 .402 0 1.005 61.00 61.3
COND-2 .402 0 1.005 55.00 55.3
COND-3 .402 0 1.005 49.00 49.2
Groundline 0.0
Total Shear Loads for Wire Loads 3.57 203.4
Wind on the Pole 0.88 27.2
Moments due to unbalanced vertical Wire Load (8.5 ft arm or 9 ft from 18.9
conductor attachment to center of pole)
Moment due to deflection for weight of pole and for wires (p-delta moment) 30.5
Approximated, based on 15 percent of the static moment from wire loads, i.e.
M=.15x203.4 ft kips)
Total Transverse Shear @ Groundline 4.45 --
Total Moments @ Groundline -- 279.9

Total Groundline Moment for Medium Loading District = 279.9 ft.-kips

• Extreme Wind Load and Extreme Ice with Concurrent Wind Load

Similar calculations are performed for the extreme wind load and extreme ice with concurrent wind
loads:
Total Ground Line Moment for Extreme Wind Load = 418 Ft-Kips
Total Groundline Moments for Extreme Ice with Concurrent Wind Loads = 165ft-kips

• Conclusions: The Extreme Wind Loading Case controls design.

Determine which “standardized” steel pole design to use:

Distance 2’ from top to groundline = 70’ – 2.0’ = 68'

Load 2’ from the top to

cause a 332 ft.-kip moment at groundline: = 417 ft-kips/68’ = 6140 lbs.

Based on the above calculated tip load and from Table 1 of the specification,
use a S-06.5 pole

Perform a quick check to verify the assumed embedment depth using RUS Bulletin
1724E-205, “Design Guide: Embedment Depths for Concrete and Steel Poles”.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix C
Page 4

Discussion:
Based on the results above, the extreme wind load case controls the design. Results from a computer
program which uses finite element analysis are summarized in the table below. The results compare
manual linear calculations with an estimate of secondary moments to the results from a computer
program which performs a nonlinear analysis.

The NESC allows the use of span factors and height adjustment factors when considering extreme wind
loads (refer to RUS Bulletin 1724E-200, Design Manual for High Voltage Transmission Lines, Chapter
11). From the summary below, several conclusions can be made. The results from manual calculations
and the computer analysis using finite elements are close, the major difference occurring with the
estimate of secondary moments in the manual calculations. Also, the use of span factors and height
adjustment factors will impact the design reactions. When using span factors and height adjustment
factors, the selected ‘standardized’ steel pole would be:

Load 2 ft from the top to cause a 334. ft kip moment (nonlinear analysis and span and height
adjustment factors) = 4930 lbs.

Based on the above calculated tip load and from Table 1 of the specification, use a S-05.7 pole

Groundline
Moments based on
Groundline Groundline Moments
manual
Moments based on a nonlinear
calculations with
Load Case based on a analysis and using span
an estimate of the
nonlinear and height adjustment
secondary
analysis factors
moments (15% of
static moment)
Load Case A
279 276 N.A.
NESC Medium Loading
Load Case B
417 401 334
Extreme Wind Load
Load Case C
Extreme Ice with Concurrent 163 176 N.A.
Wind

In this example, if span factors and height adjustment factors are applied in calculating the unit loads,
the standard size class steel pole will be reduced by one class.

Example 2: An existing 161 kV single pole line is composed of Douglas Fir wood poles. In several
locations, steel poles are to replace wood pecker damaged wood poles. The existing damaged poles
are 80 ft class 1 wood poles with the TUS pole top assembly. Determine which standard size steel
pole should be used to replace the wood pole. Extreme wind design load is 20.7 psf (90 mph). The
line is located in the heavy loading district. The conductor is 795 ACSR Drake and the overhead
ground wire is 3/8" HSS.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix C
Page 5

NESC heavy district loads with an strength factor of .65 and a load factor of 2.5 controlled the design of
the original wood pole line. However, a quick comparison of the unit loads for the extreme wind and
the NESC heavy district load with load factors and strength factors for steel, indicates that the extreme
wind load will control the design of the steel pole.1 Because the extreme wind case controls design of
the steel replacement pole, the engineer may use Table A-2 for convenience.

Table A-2 indicates that for a class 1 wood pole, a S03.5 may be used. There may be other issues in
matching classes of wood poles to steel poles that the engineer may need to consider. This example,
however, shows the importance of determining the loading condition that controls the design of the steel
pole. If the engineer had assumed that the NESC heavy district load controlled design of the steel pole
replacement since it controlled the design of the wood pole when initially installed, then Table A-1
would have been mistakenly used and a S02.9 would have been selected as the replacement pole.

Note 1: Unit loads for extreme wind is 1.9113 lbs./ft, or 2.102 with a 1.1 LF and for the NESC heavy district load, the unit
load is 1.7567 lbs./ft (.7027 times 2.5) with a 2.5 LF.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix D
Page 1

APPENDIX D

SELECTED METRIC CONVERSIONS

 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix D
Page 2

Selected SI-Metric Conversions

AREA
To Convert From To Multiply By

circular mil (cmil) square meter (m2) 5.067075 E-10

square centimeter (cm2) square meter (m2) *1.000 E-04
square foot (ft2) square meter (m2) *9.290304 E-02
square inch (in2) square meter (m2) *6.451600 E-04
square kilometer (km2) square meter (m2) *1.000 E+06
square mile (mi2) square meter (m2) 2.589988 E+06
FORCE

To Convert From To Multiply By

kilogram force (kgf) Newton (N) *9.806650
kip Newton (N) 4.448222 E+03
pound force (lbf) Newton (N) 4.44822
FORCE PER LENGTH

To Convert From To Multiply By

kilogram force per

meter (kgf/m) Newton per meter (N/m) *9.806650

pound per foot(lb./ft) Newton per meter (N/m) 1.459390 E+01

DENSITY
To Convert From To Multiply By

pound per cubic inch (lb/in3) kilogram per cubic 2.767990 E+04
meter (kg/m3)

pound per cubic foot (lb./ft3) kilogram per cubic 1.601846 E+01
LENGTH

To Convert From To Multiply By

foot (ft) meter (m) 3.048 E-01
inch (in) meter (m) *2.540 E-02
kilometer (km) meter (m) *1.000 E+03
mile (mi) meter (m) *1.609344 E+03
*Exact Conversion
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix D
Page 3

Selected SI-Metric Conversions (Cont.)

LOAD CONCENTRATION

To Convert From To Multiply By

pound per square inch (lb/in2) kilograms per square meter (kg/m2) 7.030696 E+02
pound per square foot (lb/ft2) kilograms per square meter (kg/m2) 4.788026
ton per square foot (ton/ft2) kilograms per square meter (kg/m2) 9.071847 E+02

PRESSURE
To Convert From To Multiply By

kip per square inch (kip/in2) Pascal (Pa) 6.894757 E+06

kip per square foot (kip/ft2) Pascal (Pa) 4.788026 E+04
Newton per square meter (N/m2) Pascal (Pa) *1.000
pound per square foot (lb/ft2) Pascal (Pa) 4.788026 E+01
pound per square inch (lb/in2) Pascal (Pa) 6.894757 E+03

BENDING MOMENT

To Convert From To Multiply By

kilogram force meter (kgf-m) Newton meter (N-m) *9.806650

kip-foot (kip-ft) Newton meter (N-m) 1.355818 E+02
pound-foot (lb-ft) Newton meter (N-m) 1.355818

VELOCITY

To Convert From To Multiply By

foot per second (ft/s) meter per second (m/s) *3.048 E-01
kilometer per hour (km/h) meter per second (m/s) 2.777778 E-01
mile per hour(mi/h) meter per second (m/s) 4.437030 E-01
meter per hour (m/h) meter per second (m/s) 2.777778 E-04

*Exact Conversion.
 Bulletin 1724E-214
Appendix D
Page 4

BLANK PAGE