Some assembly required: Swiss utility uses higher-payload helicopters to place concrete poles in mountainous regions and difficult terrain

摘要

Selection of supports used for overhead transmission and distribution lines is based on technical and aesthetic considerations that continue to create problems for electric utilities. Today, the design and material content of overhead line supports is an important feature of any Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) prepared to support applications to planning authorities seeking permission to erect new overhead line circuits. In addition to environmental aspects, utilities must consider mechanical strength, aging behavior, assembly methods, installation and life-cycle costs. Traditionally, the choice of materials for supports has been limited to wood and steel. Overhead line design engineers have successfully produced many technically and aesthetically acceptable structures with these materials. Alternative materials have been tried and tested, including concrete and fiberglass. Swiss utilities, which have much experience with concrete poles, are now seeking ways to optimize the installation of these structures that are increasingly used by other service industries, including telecommunications.