Why Ductile Iron Poles?

Traditionally, distribution and utility power poles have been made of wood. And while wood is great for grandma’s cedar chest and keepsake boxes, it leaves a lot to be desired in a power pole. It’s heavy, susceptible to harsh weather and critters (Woody Woodpecker comes to mind) and difficult to install. A car accident where someone runs into a wooden pole can take out an entire power grid. Often, especially in storm-ravaged areas, they need to be replaced every 5-10 years. That gets expensive.

But now, distribution and utility power poles can be made out of ductile iron, and the benefits can’t be overstated. Ductile iron poles are lighter than wood, easier to install, much stronger and last 75 years or more. All of this comes at a cost less than concrete and steel and competitive with wood.

Consider the advantages of poles that are this strong. If a tornado or hurricane comes through your area, the entire line of wooden power poles are gone. Not necessarily so with ductile iron poles, due to their increased strength.

Additionally, ductile iron poles are one of the greenest products on the market. They’re made from recycled scrap metal – so when your Ford starts to rust, it may start carrying power to homes in another life. Plus, each ductile iron pole used saves one tree from being cut down. That’s a real, tangible environmental impact.