A power pole’s material can significantly influence its longevity, maintenance costs, and environmental impact. Ductile iron utility poles offer exceptional performance and longevity with very low maintenance requirements. Examine the life expectancy of ductile iron versus alternate materials to understand its benefits.
Understanding Ductile Iron’s Longevity
Ductile iron power poles last 75 years or more, and their exceptional longevity is primarily due to the material’s unique structural properties. The pole’s ductility enables it to withstand high-stress situations and absorb shocks without significant damage.
Its corrosion resistance contributes to its extended life span in various environmental conditions. Therefore, the use of ductile iron often results in lower replacement frequency and maintenance costs.
Ductile Iron vs. Other Power Pole Materials
Comparing the life expectancy of ductile iron to alternative power pole materials highlights its superior durability. Learn more about how factors like environmental conditions, structural makeup, and biological threats affect ductile iron, wood, steel, and concrete.
Wood
Ductile iron outperforms wood in terms of durability and lifespan. Unlike wood, ductile iron doesn’t succumb to decay or pests. In addition, the iron’s sturdiness provides resistance to environmental pressures such as wind and ice loadings. With stringent maintenance, wood poles may last 35–50 years.
Steel
Steel, although strong, is prone to corrosion, especially in coastal or humid areas. Ductile iron, however, exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, prolonging its service life and maintaining its structural integrity over time. Steel poles typically last at least 50 years, but they can last longer in non-corrosive environments.
Concrete
Finally, concrete power poles can last 50 years or more. While robust and resistant to biological threats, concrete is more susceptible to extreme weather events than ductile iron, and road salting can also damage concrete.
The Influence of the Manufacturing Process
As the only ductile iron power pole manufacturer, McWane Poles adheres to stringent quality control measures throughout production. Sophisticated processes enhance the material’s sustainability, fire resistance, and corrosion resistance. Applying protective coatings can further boost the material’s resistance to corrosion, directly contributing to an extended lifespan.
At McWane Poles, we manufacture ductile iron power poles with a service life of 75 years or more. The material’s longevity and easy maintenance save power companies and electric co-ops substantial money.
Ductile iron proves to be a superior material for power poles, presenting significant advantages in longevity, resistance to environmental stressors, and low maintenance costs. Its outstanding performance in diverse environments serves to reduce replacement frequency, promoting sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
