Utility poles are large, heavy-duty posts that support public services, including power lines, wires, and cables. In North American electrical infrastructure, we think that steel utility poles are far superior, offering a unique quality that traditional wood utility poles do not provide on utility projects. Not only do steel poles end up more cost-effective, but they are high-quality and durable as well.
Although wood poles are a common choice used in many utility projects, we still believe that steel poles are the premium, modern option. Traditionally, wood poles were the foundation for electric wires and cables, but the market continues to change rapidly. Around the country, steel poles are now growing in popularity, and we are taking note of the various advantages they provide.
Here, we are going to dive into why we think steel poles are more suitable for utility projects, what it takes to haul steel utility poles, the types of steel poles on the market, and the best way to haul them.
Types of Steel Poles
Steel poles provide ideal material for harsh climates, particularly if it is already weather-grade for maximum protection.
Now, let’s go through the main types of steel poles:
Stepped poles: Aesthetic, decorative poles ideal for mounting accessories and road signs; includes built-in space for mounting and is not as bulky as other types of utility poles
Swaged poles: Shaped a particular way; very strong and often used for holding up street lights
When it comes to steel poles, various methods contribute to their prime corrosion resistance and extended service life:
Galvanized Steel
In this method, steel poles are submerged in molten zinc. This method is known as hot-dip galvanizing, which creates a malleable coating on the inside and outside of the pole. The coating ensures that the steel retains its natural state by reducing exposure to corrosion. If corrosion occurs, the zinc coating corrodes first, keeping the steel pole strong and intact.
Weathered Steel
Another solution to prevent corrosion is by enforcing the method of weathering steel. Weathering steel is often uncoated, forming an oxide barrier that protects the steel pole from most climate corrosion.
Below Ground Steel
An effective coating for steel utility poles is below-grade protection. Not only does this type of coating extend the service life of steel poles, but it can also be applied over galvanized and weathered steel. This coating adds a protective layer against soil corrosion during harsh climates.
The aforementioned solutions ensure that steel utility poles maintain durability and longevity during harsh conditions, illustrating that they are a cost-effective utility alternative.
Benefits of Steel Poles
Due to their long life cycle and strength against unpredictable elements, steel utility poles are versatile and beneficial. Many utility providers are starting to reap the benefits of steel poles over wood poles.
The many benefits of using steel utility poles include:
Coastal Installations
Since the coating on steel material resists extreme corrosion, this material can handle wet, windy, or hot environments. Coastal environments find steel utility poles to be incredibly useful and durable. The service life of these poles can last for more than 50 years.
Reliability
Steel is a reliable material because it can deliver electricity during all climates. No matter how harsh climate conditions are, electrical companies have more peace of mind when they rely on steel utility poles.
Repairability
If damaged, steel poles are not too difficult to repair. Better yet, damage to steel poles is quite rare since they are more resistant to damage.
Cost-Effective
Initially, steel is an expensive material. However, its service life is extensive. Due to its quick installation, low maintenance costs, and increased durability, steel utility poles will last over 50 years or more.
Low Maintenance
Despite heavy climate conditions, steel poles tend to retain their shape and strength for a long time. Unlike wood poles, you do not have to worry about rot, woodpeckers, or insect damage. Maintenance can be costly for utility projects, but steel does not require much maintenance.
Environmentally Friendly
As steel poles have lower levels of aerosol and greenhouse gas emissions, they reduce the harm produced by hazardous wastes. And because steel utility poles do not need to be replaced often, they have a longer life cycle and a high recycling rate compared to other types of utility poles.
Safety
No matter what, working with electricity is dangerous. Fortunately, steel poles are safe for the general public and utility workers to install under an energized working setup.
Hauling Steel Poles
Of course, hauling utility poles can be a difficult process, particularly if you are working to replace old poles.
Discovering a premium hauling company is an important part of the hauling process and should not be overlooked. At Blackwood Resources, we assist utility providers with all of their utility pole hauling needs. If transporting new steel poles to your construction site seems difficult and unsafe, that is when we come in to help.
So, with the help of Blackwood Resources, how do you haul steel utility poles? Let’s find out:
Remove the Old Wood or Concrete Utility Poles
As old poles reach the end of their service life, understand that they will need to be removed from the job site. During this period, you might consider switching to the more durable, cost-effective steel.
But, you will need a premium hauling company to streamline transportation. To avoid paying hefty expenses on replacements, hire Blackwood Resources to handle both the used and new poles with care.
Replace With New Steel Utility Poles
Honestly, steel poles are extremely heavy. And while they can be easy to install, they first need to make it to the job site.
Since steel poles have extremely high load requirements and make transporting them to a job seem complicated, many utility project managers shy away from using steel utility poles. Luckily, Blackwood Resources is here to help. You no longer have to sacrifice the more cost-effective, environmentally friendly option.
The Best Solution for Steel Utility Pole Hauling
Hauling steel utility poles can be a time-consuming, costly challenge. They are massive and heavy to transport. But, hauling does not have to be an intimidating process!
The best solution for hauling steel utility poles is to hire a reputable hauling company you can trust, such as Blackwood Resources. Our specialized trucks will haul massive steel poles to your job site in no time.
Blackwood Resources provides an asset-based hauling service, where we own specialized equipment and directly hire our drivers. We are also glad to report that you can count on us for self-loading, meaning we will unload your steel poles safely and right on your site.
Our team of experienced professionals is ready to assist you whenever you need help with utility pole hauling.
To learn more about our premium utility hauling services and how we can better assist the needs of your utility poles transportation, contact us at 812-676-8770 or jamie@blackwoodresources.com.