Innovative engineering to create safer utility pole storage

Innovative engineering to create safer utility pole storage?

A case study working with #NorthernPowergrid

Northern Powergrid

You’ll likely pass hundreds every week, and they’ve been around since 1843, but have you ever thought about what happens to utility poles when they aren’t being used?

These large poles, usually used within the utility sector, are typically heavy and difficult to handle. This makes storing them a challenge.?

With average poles measuring 30ft in height and weighing in at around 800lbs (that's about the same as an adult grizzly bear) proper storage is needed to ensure they don’t become unstable and cause damage or injury.

Pain Point | the unsafe storage of utility poles

The Challenge | For many years NorthernPowergrid had used a temporary workaround for storage; but in order to increase safety and efficiency they looked to Black Hills Products to design and manufacture a permanent solution.

This solution needed to work across a range of ground conditions and also allow for easy identification of the poles.

The Response |?

With simplicity and functionality in mind, our team first designed a structure that was strong enough to store multiple poles, but was also easily transportable. (given that they may need to be moved from site to site)?

#Manufactured in house from parallel channel, our team created a universal column mated to a sturdy base.?

The upright pillars were then fixed together using long sections of timber, providing a secure enclosure which retains the pole safely. In addition to this it allows for signage to be attached to the uprights for easy identification.

?A simple but incredibly effective solution

The Result |

Black Hills Products pole stores have been implemented in various (often hidden) locations across the #NorthEast of England.?

#Engineering this solution has meant providing a safer working environment and an easier and more efficient identification process. It will also help improve the lifespan of the poles, protecting them from damage and reducing the cost of maintaining and replacing them.?

Did you know |

There is indeed a telegraph pole appreciation society with its very own national telegraph pole day - this year it lands on September 21st.?