![Inner Pole Testing Picture of a man using a device to check for wood decay on a utility pole.](https://dawsonpower.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IMG_7612-scaled.jpg)
As a not-for-profit utility, Dawson PPD focuses on cost-effectively extending the life of its existing facilities while maintaining adequate levels of safety and reliability. Testing wooden poles helps the District ensure reliability and long life of its equipment, saving customers money in the long run.
Traditionally, pole testing involved a hammer for sounding, a shovel for digging around the base and drilling holes to test for decay. Today, Dawson PPD hires a contractor that uses a scientifically-based system called POLUX as a less-invasive and more accurate form of testing.
POLUX works by sending two, three inch long probes the size of an eight-penny nail into the base of the utility pole. This is the most vulnerable point where decay is most likely to occur on a pole. The probes measure resistance and moisture content of the pole. This information, along with the type of wood the pole is made of and how it was treated are run through a computer program with the pole’s GPS location recorded.
Typically, Dawson PPD uses a Southern Yellow Pine tree for its poles, which should have a resistance of 8,000 pounds per square inch when new. If the measurement falls below 50 percent of the recommended resistance, in this case 4,000 PSI, the pole is marked for replacement.
All of Dawson PPD’s poles are tested every 10 years on a rotating schedule with 10,000-11,000 poles tested annually.
OTHER NEWS
Power outage updates
This post was created to update the media and Dawson PPD's customers about power outages within Dawson PPD's territory March 13 - 15, 2019. Refresh your browser to see the most recent update. 3/15 at 11:00 a.m.: Dawson PPD's contracted after hours call center with...
Rate changes set for April 1
The Dawson PPD Board of Directors approved a $1 Distribution Charge increase for residential customers and stock wells at the February board meeting. The changes will go into effect beginning April 1. [su_table responsive="yes"] 2019 Distribution Charge Rates General...
Meet your digital energy assistants
You want to take better control of your electricity bill, but where to start? Before you replace the windows and unplug everything electric in your home, consult your digital energy assistants first. Who are these assistants? Meet SmartHub and Energy Audit. These...