Bob Miller
Manager of Purchasing, Facilities & Fleet
Utility line poles have evolved significantly. From simple wooden poles to materials like fiberglass, concrete and ductile iron, these poles have adapted to the changing needs of our industry.
Wood
Historically inexpensive, wooden poles are typically made from pressure-treated pine. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to install and have good insulating properties. Dawson PPD primarily uses Northern Red Pine or Southern Yellow Pine for its distribution poles, and Douglas Fir for its large transmission poles.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel poles are strong, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly due to their coating and recyclability. Dawson PPD has used this type of pole in the past when steel prices were more reasonable.
Fiberglass Poles
Fiberglass poles emerged as a lightweight, durable alternative to wood. Made from reinforced plastic, these poles are resistant to rot, corrosion and insect damage. They are also non-conductive and serve well in storm-prone areas.
Concrete Poles
Concrete poles offer exceptional strength and durability. Concrete poles are resistant to fire, rot and pests. First used in the early 20th century, these poles are particularly suited for areas with high wind loads, such as coastal regions and hurricane-prone areas.
Engineered Laminated Poles
Engineered laminated wood poles have advanced utility infrastructure. Their combination of strength, durability, sustainability and design flexibility allows them to be used in a number of situations. As the demand for reliable and sustainable infrastructure continues to grow, these poles are likely to play an increasingly important role.
Ductile Iron Poles
Ductile iron poles combine the strength of steel with the corrosion resistance of iron. These poles are robust, able to withstand extreme weather conditions and heavy loads. Ductile iron poles are also resistant to vandalism and have a long service life, making them a cost-effective option for many applications. With the increasing costs of wood poles and the longevity of Ductile iron, Dawson PPD is currently looking into using these poles for some future projects.
OTHER NEWS
Dawson PPD plans substation work
Two rural Dawson Public Power District substations will be getting upgrades after the 2024 irrigation season. Sub 26, located southwest of Gothenburg, will be upgraded as part of a voltage conversion. Sub 35, located northeast of Gothenburg, is being improved to...
Dawson PPD’s board considers contract, load growth
Dawson Public Power District’s regular board meeting was held on July 3, 2024. Darin Bloomquist, General Manager of the Nebraska Electric Generation & Transmission Cooperative, gave an update on the organization’s work....
A day in the life of a consumer accounting representative
Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when you call or visit Dawson PPD headquarters? Consumer Accounting Representatives (CARs) wear many hats, juggling multiple tasks throughout the day to keep things running smoothly.