technical specification - full length preservative treated

EDM 34014038

Uncontrolled document when printed Refer to DM for current version

Technical Specification

Full-Length Preservative Treated Wood Poles

Original Issue: May 2009

This Revision: 8 - Aug 2018

Date for Next Review: Aug 2021

© Western Power

ABN 18540492861

EDM 34014038

Document control

Endorsement approvals

Name Title Signature Date

Author Lanka Thabrew Snr. Civil Structural Engineer

08.08.2018

Checked by Grant Stacey Principal Engineer

08.08.2018

Endorsed by Farhan Khan Engineering Team Leader

08.08.2018

Approved by Linden Bronliegh Lines & Cables Design Manager

10.08.2018

Record of revisions

Revision No. Date DM version Revised by Description

Original 30/06/2009 V12 R Fairweather Original issue

1 30/07/2009 V13 R Fairweather Added 11m 5kN poles

2 01/03/2010 V14 R Fairweather Amended pole dimensions

3 15/04/2010 V15 Amarjit Singh Added stock code numbers

4 02/11/2010 V16 R Fairweather Added table for knots >25 mm, section for bar codes and reference to AS 3818.11:2009 amended.

5 2/8/2011 V17 R Fairweather Added clauses on sustainability and ground line fire protection

6 09/11/2012 V18 R Rogerson Replaced moisture content testing requirements with minimum drying times. Removed requirement for preservative treatment. Change made to allow commercial agreement to be finalised.

7 15/05/2014 V20 N Spencer

Danie van Tonder

Rikus Lategan

Revised sizes, species, knot sizes, Tables and other general revisions.

8 10/08/2018 V22 Danie van Tonder

Lanka Thabrew

Introduced self-supporting poles (SSP)

Added Kiln Drying option.

Modified allowable knot sizes.

Documents referenced in this document

Doc # Title of document

8591929 Nukote Material advice for burnt product emissions

10970304 Technical Schedule – Full Length Preservative Timber Poles

34348810 Nukote Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

41034257 Report on allowable knot sizes in S6 timber poles

AS/NZS 1080.1:2012

Timber – Methods of test – Moisture content

http://busbar/applications/DMSRouter/8591929

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AS 1604.1:2012 Specification for preservative treatment – sawn and round timber

AS 2209:1994 Timber – Poles for overhead lines

AS/NZS 2843:2006 Timber preservation plants - Part 1: Timber preservation plant site design

AS 2878:2000 Timber – Classification into strength groups

AS 3818.1:2009 Timber – Heavy structural products – Visually graded -

Part 1: General requirements

AS 3818.11:2009 Timber – Heavy structural products – Visually graded - Part 11: Utility poles

AS/NZS 4063.2:2010

Timber stress graded – In grade strength and stiffness evaluation

AS/NZS 4491:1997 Glossary of terms in timber related Standards

AS 4707:2014 Chain of custody for certified wood and forest products

AS 4708:2007 Australian Forestry Standard (AFS)

AS 5604:2005 Timber – Natural durability ratings

AS/NZS 7000:2010 Overhead line design—Detailed procedures

ISO 15206 Timber poles – Basic requirements and test methods

Other documents that reference this document

Doc # Title of document

DM# 9692378 Distribution Overhead Line Design Manual – Timber Pole Strength

EDM# 41034257 Report on allowable knot sizes in S6 timber poles

Stakeholders (people that were consulted when document was updated)

Position / Area/ Function

Operational Asset Performance Manager

Lines & Cables Design Manager

Commercial: Materials Manager

Commercial: Category and Contracts Specialist

Notification list (people to be notified when document is updated)

Position / Branch / Section

Operational Asset Performance Manager

Lines & Cables Design Manager

Corporate Services

Commercial: Materials Manager

Commercial: Category and Contracts Specialist

This document must not be made available to personnel outside Western Power without the prior written

approval of Western Power.

http://busbar/applications/DMSRouter/9692378

EDM 34014038

Contents

1. Scope .................................................................................................................................................. 5

2. Compliance ........................................................................................................................................ 5

3. Definitions ............................................................................................................................................ 5

4. General requirements ........................................................................................................................ 7

4.1 Minimum pole service life................................................................................................................. 7

4.2 Sustainable timber source................................................................................................................ 7

4.3 General properties ............................................................................................................................ 7

4.4 Inspections .......................................................................................................................................... 7

4.5 Defect limits ........................................................................................................................................ 8

4.6 Timber types ........................................................................................................................................ 8

4.6.1 Softwood species ....................................................................................................9

4.6.2 Hardwood species ..................................................................................................9

4.7 Timber seasoning ............................................................................................................................. 10

4.8 Preservative treatment ................................................................................................................... 10

4.9 Fire retardant paint.......................................................................................................................... 10

4.9.1 Coating requirements ..........................................................................................10

4.9.2 Coating service life ...............................................................................................11

4.9.3 Coating application .............................................................................................11

4.9.4 Coating tests .........................................................................................................11

4.10 Post treatment seasoning .............................................................................................................. 11

5. Specific requirements....................................................................................................................... 11

5.1 Pole strength classes ....................................................................................................................... 11

5.2 Pole strength parameters ............................................................................................................... 11

5.2.1 Strength grades .....................................................................................................12

5.2.2 Dimension criteria .................................................................................................12

5.2.3 Dimension limits .....................................................................................................12

5.3 Pole strength parameters ............................................................................................................... 13

5.4 Performance and testing ............................................................................................................... 13

5.4.1 Visual grading and calculation ...........................................................................13

5.4.2 Proof testing ...........................................................................................................14

5.4.3 Destructive testing ................................................................................................14

6. Initial log sort requirements .............................................................................................................. 14

7. Pole preparation ............................................................................................................................... 14

8. Identification discs ............................................................................................................................ 15

9. Documentation ................................................................................................................................. 16

9.1 Information to be provided and stored by supplier ................................................................. 16

9.2 Non-compliance ............................................................................................................................. 17

11 Stock codes ...................................................................................................................................... 17

Appendix A. Pole testing requirements ................................................................................................... 18

Appendix B. Kiln drying procedure ......................................................................................................... 20

Appendix C. Pole moisture content testing ............................................................................................ 21

Appendix D. Approved fire retardant products ...................................................................................... 22

Appendix E. Calculated minimum pole dimensions .............................................................................. 23

Appendix F. Standard pole cap drawing ................................................................................................ 25

Appendix G. Western Power wood pole stock codes ........................................................................... 26

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1. Scope

This specification sets out the requirements for Hardwood (HW) and Softwood (SW) timber poles

intended for use as distribution and transmission line poles in Western Power’s electricity network.

All timber poles supplied to Western Power, including poles sourced from outside of Western

Australia, shall comply with this specification.

2. Compliance

All timber poles supplied to Western Power shall comply with the requirements of AS 2209: 1994

primarily and all additional requirements stipulated in this specification.

A compliance certificate confirming the compliance to this specification shall be provided by the

supplier on request.

3. Definitions

The definitions in Table 1 and as defined in the relevant Standards shall apply to this specification:

Table 3.1: Definitions

Term Definitions/Standard references

AFS Australian Forestry Standard

AFS Recognized Certificate

Any of:

(a) a valid accredited forest management certificate issued against AS4708;

(b) a valid accredited chain of custody certificate issued against AS4707;

(c) a valid accredited forest management certificate issued by a PEFC notified certification body against a forest management scheme/standard which is endorsed by the PEFC Council;

(d) a valid accredited chain of custody certificate issued by a PEFC notified certification body against this standard together with PEFC recognised and specification of the material category; or

(e) a valid accredited chain of custody certificate issued by a PEFC notified certification body against a scheme specific chain of custody standard which is

endorsed by the PEFC Council (AS 4707).

CCA Copper Chromium Arsenate. (Type of wood preservative, as per AS1604.1 H5).

Charge AS/NZS 4491

Characteristic

Breaking Load

Capacity

The maximum tip load a pole can withstand just before collapse, which is calculated based on the Nominal Ground Line (NGL) characteristic bending capacity of the pole (without any strength reduction and k factors applied).

Check AS/NZS 4491

CoC Chain of Custody

Controlled sources AS 4707

Bottom Critical Zone The 1.6m length of pole measured from a point 1m above nominal ground line to 600mm below nominal ground line.

EDM 34014038

Term Definitions/Standard references

Debarking The removal of bark and cambium layer by an approved machine to provide an acceptable, regular surface finish with minimal sap removal.

Due Diligence System (DDS)

AS 4707

End Split AS/NZS 4491

FSC Forest Stewardship Council

Growth Ring AS/NZS 4491

Hazard Class AS 1604.1

Insect Damage A hole extending partially or entirely through the piece and attributable to any of the following causes: (a) Borer hole , (b) Grub hole, (c) Pinhole, and (d) Termite hole

As per AS 2209

Kiln AS/NZS 4491

Kiln drying AS/NZS 4491

Knot (a) Defective knot, b) Loose knot, (c) Sound knot, and (d) Unsound knot as per AS 2209.

(e) Spike knot - resulting from a branch that has grown at a steep angle (generally greater than 30⁰) from the radial or longitudinal axis of the pole. The knots that appear to be more tangential than radial are of most concern.

Nominal Ground

Line (NGL)

The theoretical planting depth mark on the pole measured from the butt of the pole that is equal to the embedment depth.

PEFC Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification

Self-Supporting Pole

(SSP)

A pole with a deeper embedment depth than the standard poles, with an additional identification disk.

Shake (a) Heart shake, (b) Ring shake and (b) Star shake as per AS/NZS 4491

Spiral Grain AS/NZS 4491 & AS 2209

Split AS/NZS 4491 & AS 2209

Taper The degree to which the pole decreases in diameter as it increases in length. The taper of any section of a pole can be determined by measuring its large end diameter (LED) and small end diameter (SED) and the difference divided over the length between the diameter measurements.

Tip Load The equivalent total horizontal load on a pole applied 300 mm from the tip of the pole.

Transverse Fracture AS/NZS 4491 & AS 2209

Ultimate Tip Load

Capacity (factored)

The ultimate tip load a pole can withstand before structural failure, which is calculated based on the ground line characteristic bending capacity of the pole multiplied by the relevant strength reduction and k factors.

Utility Pole AS 3818.1

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4. General requirements

4.1 Minimum pole service life

Timber pole service life expectancy shall be as AS/NZS 7000 Table D4. In-ground durability classes

of acceptable timber species supplied to Western Power shall be as Table 4.2 and Table 4.3 of this

Specification.

4.2 Sustainable timber source

The Supplier is required to submit evidence that all timber supplied under this specification has been

obtained from a controlled source. In order of preference, evidence of controlled source includes:

Timber that is covered by an AFS recognised certificate.

Timber that is FSC certified.

For timber that does not have a certificate of compliance, a statement that the timber is not from controversial sources (as defined in AS 4707).

The Suppliers shall state the policies and processes in place and evidence available to verify this

statement.

The Supplier needs to provide only one of the above. Preference will be given to processes and

evidence that have been verified by a third party.

4.3 General properties

All poles shall be:

Sound and free from live insect attack.

Straight as defined in AS 2209, Section 1.5.4.

Uniform taper not less than 5mm per metre, nor exceeding 15mm per metre.

Free of chainsaw or axe cuts in the across-grain direction.

Free from internal defects such as termites and shakes in the critical zone

4.4 Inspections

The inspection must be undertaken on every pole.

The Supplier shall have the timber inspected by a suitably experienced and qualified

person acceptable to Western Power to confirm that the timber meets the visual

requirements outlined in this Specification.

If the Supplier’s internal staff are deemed to satisfy the above requirements and conduct

the inspections, then the Suppler must make arrangements to appoint a third party to periodically audit the inspection to Western Power’s specification.

The Supplier shall provide Western Power annually with a list of persons who are suitably experienced and details of qualification and training.

The third party audit must be undertaken in a manner such that the results are representative of the entire timber batch inspected by the Suppliers internal staff.

The pole shall be stamped on the butt of each pole (i.e. the length and tip load rating) including the inspector’s mark.

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4.5 Defect limits

Each pole shall be visually inspected. The following defect limitations replace, or

are in addition to, the requirements in AS 2209. These limits are applicable at the

time the poles are graded by the Supplier:

1. Checks & Splits

The limits shall be as per Rating A for the tip, and B for the butt (refer to AS 3818.11 Table 1.7.1), and rating B for barrel checks (refer to AS 3818.11 Table 1.7.2). This applies to both hardwood and softwood poles.

2. Knots

The limits for knot sizes outlined in AS 2209 Section 4.2.1 and Section 3.2.1 shall apply to all softwood and hardwood timber poles respectively with following exceptions:

The sound knot sizes applicable to softwoods must be as specified in Table 4.1.

The spike knots in the bottom critical zone shall be less than 25mm; elsewhere

spike knots must not exceed a width of 40mm1.

Table 4.1: Maximum allowable knot sizes in softwoods

Pole zone Knot-single/aggregate

S6 S6-modified

Bottom critical Single 25mm 50mm

Aggregate (KCR) 20% 20%

Other Single 50mm 60mm

Aggregate (KCR) 20% 20%

KCR=Knot diameter to pole circumference ratio in any 300mm length of the pole

S6-modified=S6 pole diameters increased to allow larger knot sizes2

3. Growth Rings

The tip of pine poles shall have a minimum of 15 growth rings. There is no minimum requirement for Australian hardwoods.

4. Transverse fractures

There must be no transverse fractures in any part of the pole.

4.6 Timber types

Western Power’s preferred timber type for Distribution poles is softwoods. Only when

insufficient softwood poles are available, should hardwoods be supplied after consultation with

Western Power. Western Power will accept the Australian timber species in Table 4.2 and Table

4.3, and their corresponding strength group referenced from AS/NZS 2878.

1 The aggregate KCR in the Table 4.1 is inclusive of spike knots if any present. 2 EDM# 41034257

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4.6.1 Softwood species

Acceptable Australian softwood species are shown in Table 4.2. Additionally the acceptable species

must have grown in low rainfall areas (less than 950 mm/year). Currently only Western Australia and

South Australia plantations have been tested to be acceptable.

Table 4.2: Western Power’s preferred softwood species

Species Species

code In-ground

durability class Strength group

P. Radiata (Radiata Pine) PR 4 S6

P. Pinaster (Maritime Pine) PM 4 S6

Other species and growth areas may be considered provided suitable documentation and test data is

submitted to demonstrate that the poles meet the technical requirement of this specification.

This may require additional testing in accordance with Section 5.4 and Appendix A of this specification.

4.6.2 Hardwood species

Acceptable Australian hardwood species are shown in Table 4.3.

Table 4.3: Western Power’s preferred hardwood species

Species Species

code In-ground

durability class Strength group

E. Fibrosa (Broad-leaved Red Ironbark) BI 1 S1

E. Bosistoana (Coast Grey Box) CB 1 S1

E. Punctata (Grey Gum) GG 1 S1

E. Paniculata (Grey Ironbark) GI 1 S1

E. Microcarpa (Grey Box) GB 1 S2

E. Cloeziana (Gympie Messmate) GM 1 S2

E. Sideroxylon (Red Ironbark) RI 1 S2

E. Microcorys (Tallowwood) TW 1 S2

E. Acmenoides (White Mahogany) WM 1 S2

E. Pilularis (East-Coast Blackbutt) BB 2 S2

C. Maculata (Spotted Gum) SG 2 S2

Other species may be considered provided suitable documentation is submitted to demonstrate that

the poles meet the technical requirement of this specification.

All hardwood poles shall be adequately protected against end-splits using galvanized steel nail plates

(also known as Pole Cat). The anti-split plates shall be annular and of a diameter as can be

accommodated without projection beyond the circumference of the pole. Alternatively anti-splitting

straps may be used.

EDM 34014038

4.7 Timber seasoning

Prior to preservative treatment, poles shall be air dried until the moisture content is below 30%.

When this air drying requirement is unachievable, the use of kiln drying3 is approved for

softwoods (Refer to Appendix B for the kiln drying procedure and Appendix C for moisture content measurement method).

4.8 Preservative treatment

Timber treatment shall be to hazard classification H5 and carried out in accordance with AS

1604.1 Table H5 and Appendix C, and AS 2209 Section 5.

The timber preservative shall be CCA type C – Oxide as per AS 1604.1 Table B2.

Preservative penetration and retention shall be according to AS 1604.1 Section 6.2 and 6.3. The treatment summary charge sheets and results of all preservative testing shall accompany the compliance certificate. This must be sent electronically to Western Power’s requirements and Western Power to keep charge information confidential.

All charge sheets must be kept by the Supplier.

The Supplier’s Quality Assurance systems must ensure correct branding and include a systematic

preservation sampling regime.

On completion of the preservation treatment process, poles shall be temporarily marked at the

butt end with an identification tag indicating the treatment date and batch number (for tracking purposes until a permanent bar code tag is installed).

At the time of delivery to Western Power or its contractors, the surface of the treated poles shall

be free of preservative residues, exudates, efflorescence and dust likely to result in:

Ingestion or inhalation of chemical.

Contamination of skin, clothing or equipment.

Reduced safety during handling and transport.

4.9 Fire retardant paint

Western Power requires an allocation of poles to be treated with fire retardant paint. For

approved products refer to Appendix D.

4.9.1 Coating requirements

The coating product must adhere to the following:

The coating must be soundly attached to the pole surface.

The coating thickness shall be according to the manufacturer’s specification.

The coating shall be evenly applied to the pole shaft, from 400mm below to 1800mm above the nominal ground line.

Appropriate measures must be taken to minimise potential separation of the fire retardant product at 1800mm above nominal ground line due to weathering.

3 Excludes steaming.

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4.9.2 Coating service life

The coating thickness shall be sufficient to provide a minimum in-service life of 10 years before recoating is required.

4.9.3 Coating application

The fire protection paint shall be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and Material Safety Data Sheet prior to pole delivery.

4.9.4 Coating tests

The Supplier shall develop a suitable test method to determine coating thickness to the satisfaction of

Western Power:

Coating test records shall be kept to demonstrate compliance with this clause.

The Supplier shall bear the costs of the coating tests required by this clause and any remedial action required.

4.10 Post treatment seasoning

The CCA fixation time shall be determined according to AS 2843 Clause 3.7.

A minimum storage time of 6 weeks is required after treatment and before dispatch.

5. Specific requirements

5.1 Pole strength classes

Pole strength classes are defined based on pole tip load capacities. The “naming convention” of strength

classes, e.g. “9.5/5” (Pole Length/ Working Tip Load), will be kept as a name code for operational and data recording purposes.

For each pole strength class, design ultimate tip load capacities have been determined using limit state

principles. The design ultimate tip load capacities in the schedule (Section 5.3, Table 5.1) shall be the minimum values for the respective strength classes:

Distribution poles: 8kN, 10kN, 13kN and 17kN

Transmission poles: 20kN

5.2 Pole strength parameters

Timber poles supplied to Western Power shall be assessed and graded to the values in this Section.

Where applicable, timber poles sourced outside of Western Australia shall be re-graded accordingly,

branded and assigned with a unique identification number as per Identification discs.

EDM 34014038

5.2.1 Strength grades

The following timber strength grades and characteristic bending strengths will be considered for poles supplied to Western Power:

(a) Distribution poles

Strength grade Characteristic bending strength (f’b) MPa

S2 80

S5 40

S6 35

S6-modified4 35

(b) Transmission poles

Strength grade Characteristic bending strength (f’b) MPa

S2 80

5.2.2 Dimension criteria

The Supplier must calculate the required pole dimensions based on the required strengths as indicated in Table 5.1 (Refer to Appendix E for required minimum pole dimensions).

The nominal tip and butt dimensions in Appendix E have been calculated based on a taper rate of 10 mm per meter over the full pole length.

The critical dimension is the ground line dimension. The other dimensions may have some degree of variability due to the natural taper variations.

5.2.3 Dimension limits

The maximum pole butt dimension shall not exceed the following diameters:

For poles up to 14m length: 0.5m diameter calculated from the circumference

For poles over 14m length: 0.6m diameter calculated from the circumference

The permissible dimensional tolerances are as follows:

Pole Length: -0 to +100mm

Diameter (ground line and butt): -0 to +60mm

4 EDM 41034257

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5.3 Pole strength parameters

The strength requirements expressed as tip loads are given in Table 5.1 (applicable for S2, S5 and S6 strength classes).

Table 5.1: Minimum tip load capacities for distribution and transmission poles

Network

Pole type - Pole length(m)/working

stress (kN)

Ultimate tip load capacity (factored)

(kN)

Characteristic breaking load capacity (kN)

Standard embedment depth

(m)

Distribution 9.5/5 10 13.1 1.55

11/4 8 10.5 1.7

11/5 10 13.1 1.7

11/6 13 17.0 1.7

12.5/4 8 10.5 1.85

12.5/6 13 17.0 1.85

12.5/8 17 22.2 1.85

14/8 17 22.2 2.0

SSP1 (11/6) 13 17.0 2.55

SSP2 (12.5/8) 17 22.2 2.8

SSP3 (14/8) 17 22.2 3.0

Transmission 15.5/10 20* 26.1 2.7

17/10 20* 26.1 2.8

18.5/10 20* 26.1 2.9

20/10 20* 26.1 3.1

21.5/10 20* 26.1 3.2

* For these poles in the S2 Strength Group, the deflection limitations govern the pole diameters.

5.4 Performance and testing

The Supplier shall demonstrate that the poles are capable of sustaining the required ultimate tip load in Table 5.1 by using one or more of the following methods:

Visual grading and calculations

Proof testing

Destructive testing

The Supplier’s quality assurance system must include a systematic timber quality sampling regime to demonstrate compliance with this specification.

If the pole diameters are based on proof testing requirements, the Supplier shall prepare specific

dimension tables showing the proposed new diameters including any assumptions and supporting

information for Western Power approval.

5.4.1 Visual grading and calculation

If a pole has been visually graded to AS 2209, the specified design ultimate tip load capacity shall be calculated based on the characteristic structural timber properties in AS/NZS 7000 Appendix F.

EDM 34014038

5.4.2 Proof testing

Each individual pole (or representative sample of poles) may be proof load tested to ascertain its

structural adequacy and to confirm the specified ultimate tip load can be sustained in accordance

with ISO 15206 or AS/NZS 7000 Section F.

In this case, the proof test load shall be the equivalent dependable ultimate (strength) loading,

which can be taken as:

Design ultimate tip load capacity multiplied by a statistical factor complying with AS/NZS 7000 Table 8.1.

The statistical factor in Table 8.1 of AS/NZS 7000 shall be based on the measured/expected Coefficient of Variation (COV) and the number of representative poles to be tested. The number of tests can be cumulative and not per batch of tests.

Pole testing shall be undertaken in accordance with ISO 15206 or AS/NZS 7000 Section FF.

5.4.3 Destructive testing

A selected sample of poles shall be tested to destruction to demonstrate the breaking load is

equal or greater than the specified characteristic breaking load specified in Table 5.1.

For poles grown in areas other than those identified in this specification or of a different species,

a minimum of 35 poles are required to be tested prior to supply.

Every year, as requested by Western Power, the Supplier shall provide up to 40 pine poles

(untreated) to this specification delivered for Western Power to test in their test facility at Bibra

Lake. Results will be shared by the Supplier and Western Power.

6. Initial log sort requirements

All logs shall be visually inspected for gross defects, splits, or excessive knots prior to bark

removal. Any identified logs with damage shall be rejected.

The delivery records of each log shipment shall be recorded including the forest location and

number of logs received.

7. Pole preparation

The following shall be adhered to:

All poles shall be seasoned prior to preservation treatment as per Section 4.7.

All soft wood Poles shall be debarked to provide an acceptable surface finish with minimal sap removal.

Surface shall be reasonably smooth with no significant splinters or burrs.

Pole ends shall be neatly cut at right angles to the pole axis.

The hardwood pole butt and top shall be adequately protected against splitting as per 4.6.2 within 48 hours of sawing. Softwood poles do not require splitting protection.

All poles shall be fitted with an approved pole cap as per Drawing T5003/6/0/1/1 in Appendix F. The difference between the pole tip diameter and the pole cap shall not be greater than 30mm.

The base of each pole shall also be painted blue for Hardwood poles or green for Softwood poles and stencilled in white paint with the pole length and strength rating details. Self-Supporting Poles shall be painted red at the base.

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8. Identification discs

All poles shall be branded using an inset aluminium disc.

Branding shall comply with ‘Option 3’ as per AS 3818.11 Section 5.7 replacing the charge number with

the unique pole identifier. Each disc shall be inset not less than 8mm and not more than 12mm below

the pole surface measured at the shallowest part of the recess.

Each disc shall be placed 2.0m above the nominal ground line and shall be at least 50mm diameter.

Markings on the disc shall be at least 6mm in height and deep enough to be legible, with a small

amount of corrosion.

Information on the disc shall include the following as shown in Figure 9.1:

Pole type (e.g. 11/4)

Pole ultimate tip load capacity (kN)

Timber species code

Date of treatment or fabrication (mm/yy)

Unique pole identification (ID) number

Preservation type code number (treatment type and hazard class)

Preservative (treatment) plant number

Pole length

Figure 8.1: Pole information disc

All poles shall have a unique pole identification number permanently attached to each pole.

Information on the disc shall be as Figure 9.2:

The bar code standard shall be 128.

The unique pole ID barcode disc shall be placed 200mm above the pole information disc and shall be at least 50mm diameter. The numbers on the unique pole ID disc shall be at least 6mm in height and be legible for 50 years.

EDM 34014038

Unique Pole

Figure 8.2: Pole ID and barcode

Self-Supporting Poles (SSP) shall have an additional disc 200mm (centre to centre) above the

unique pole identification disc with the markings as shown in Figure 9.3. The numbers on the disc shall be at least 6mm in height and be legible for 50 years.

Figure 8.3: SSP Disc (SSPx, where x denotes the SSP number)

9. Documentation

9.1 Information to be provided and stored by supplier

The following information shall be stored by the Supplier and forwarded to

Western Power for every batch of poles delivered, within four weeks of delivery

of poles to Western Power.

This information shall be sent electronically in a format suitable to Western

Power. All information shall be linked to the Supplier’s unique bar code disc on

each pole.

The Supplier shall provide either at time of delivery or prior to end of an invoice

period, via e-mail, the proof of delivery which includes:

Individual bar code number

Pole length and rating

Supplier stock code

Customer order/reference number

Delivery address & GPS coordinates of delivery location

Unique

Pole ID &

Barcode

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Date of delivery

Delivery person name/signature

The Supplier shall provide a “confirmation of compliance certificate” that states all poles comply

with this specification, when requested by Western Power.

The certificate shall state which poles it is relevant to (i.e. the unique pole test numbers shall be

stated on the certificate).

The following information shall also be included on or with the certificate on request:

The timber origin or source (i.e. the plantation or forest name)

The capacity assessment method (e.g. visually graded, proof or stress graded) and appropriate standard

Untreated durability class

Strength group

Timber species

A summary table showing the critical dates during pole production (harvest, visual grading, preservative treatment, fire retardant painting)

An inspection certificate from a suitably experienced and qualified person stating that the timber has been visually graded to this specification.

The type of preservative treatment and process including treatment charge sheets and results of any preservation testing.

9.2 Non-compliance

Where the right to reject any pole is exercised by Western Power, the Supplier shall supply a

replacement pole, which does so comply, at no additional cost and without causing delay with the

Contract completion period at the site where the pole was rejected or as agreed between Western

Power and the Supplier.

When requested by Western Power, all poles must be supported by a Supplier’s compliance certificate.

11 Stock codes

Western Power stock codes for distribution and transmission wood poles are given in Appendix G.

EDM 34014038

Appendix A. Pole testing requirements

General requirements

The Supplier shall maintain records of each proof load test undertaken. This documentation shall be

made available for inspection or review plus electronic copies sent to Western Power.

Each pole shall have a unique pole test number which ensures that the test information can be traced back to an individual pole.

The pole tester shall calibrate both load and deflection measuring equipment before and after the tests, and provide Western Power with certification of these tests.

Test rig

Testing of poles shall be carried out in a horizontal test rig, with layout described in ISO 15206 Annex C or AS/NZS 7000 Appendix FF.

The test rig shall be approved by a suitably experienced and qualified independent body as agreed

between Western Power and the Supplier, prior to commencement of pole supply and shall

incorporate the following features:

Loading and reaction surfaces shaped to avoid damage to the pole being tested. To minimise crushing of timber at reaction points, the support/contour shoe bearing area (near ground line mark) shall not be smaller than 200mm long by 50mm at rest. The average radial contact width shall be at least 0.3 x the pole diameter under full test load.

Placement and recording of load and reaction points to an accuracy of 1%. In each case, the applied load shall be located 300 mm from the nominal pole top. If this is impractical, the load point will be as close as possible to this point and the actual distance from the tip compensated for in the results.

Apply loads to an accuracy of 1% and a valid calibration certificate for each load cell.

Wheels of trolley supports if any to be oriented and greased to minimise friction.

Adjustable load and reaction points to suit poles sizes being tested.

Loading procedure

An initial load shall be applied (between 5-10% of the calculated breaking load) to ensure the pole

is resting firmly on the supports when no significant load is applied. The load should then be released back to zero, which will then be the baseline point for load and deflection measurements.

The following loading and measurement methods may be used. For both methods, the required proof load is to be reached within 300±90 seconds and held for at least 30 seconds.

Method 1: Continuous Load and Measurement

Load to be applied continuously to the required proof load as long as the load and deflection

readings are recorded simultaneously and continuously at no more than 1 second intervals. The test shall continue to failure after holding the proof load as above.

Method 2: Incremental Loads and Measurements

Load to be applied in incremental increases such that the load and deflection can be measured

and recorded during pauses before the next load increment. The step increment in % of the calculated pole breaking load to be as follows:

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20%, 40%, 60%, 80%

100% (hold for 30 seconds)

Beyond 100%, 10-20% increments until failure.

Deflection readings should be taken consistently between 4-7 seconds after hold.

Test reports

For each test undertaken, at least the following information shall be recorded:

Pole details

o Before test: species, treatment details, year, length, diameters at top, ground line and butt, moisture content, knots and defects plus photos. Distance between supports and test setup information.

o Post-test: dimensions of fractures and reduction in cross dimensions of reaction points to enable calculation of pole rotation due to indentation of the pole or choking blocks/wedges.

A description of the failure characteristics, location and extent, including photographs of the failure region.

A description of the material quality and any defects in the failure region.

The unmodified load deflection curve for each pole must be plotted.

Calculation of the actual bending moment in the pole at the failure point (kNm)

Calculation of the Modulus of Rupture (MoR) in the timber at the failure point based on the effective section modulus.

Video of tests shall be provided on digital media.

Test validation, modifications and reasons for rejection if any.

A preliminary analysis of the representative sample of the pole population shall be undertaken in accordance with AS/NZS 4063.2:2010. This summary table shall include the following information:

Number of samples

Mean fibre strength in bending and standard deviation (MPa)

Average Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) value (MPa)

Coefficient of Variation (COV) (%)

Raw 5th percentage fibre strength in bending (MPa)

Characteristic fibre strength in bending (MPa)

EDM 34014038

Appendix B. Kiln drying procedure

Introduction

Kiln drying is the introduction of heat into a sealed chamber which controls temperature,

moisture and air velocity.

The Kiln drying of poles can be used as a method of seasoning poles prior to preservative

treatment. The purpose is to reduce the moisture content of the poles to a level suitable for treatment to comply with AS1604.1.

The exact procedure is kiln and batch size dependent.

Procedure

The kiln drying procedure and allowable temperatures must be selected with due consideration

to the diameter, length and density of the pine poles in a given batch and time elapsed since the

poles have been felled in the forest. The kiln drying schedule must be set at medium heat with a

maximum dry bulb temperature of 100ᵒC and wet bulb variance not more than half the dry bulb

temperature. Any deviation from this must be adequately justified to Western Power.

The output moisture content of the poles must be less than 30% (Refer to Appendix C for

moisture content testing requirements).

If Kiln drying is to become a standard method in the processing of pine poles, there shall be a

requirement to provide randomly selected 35 poles for testing at the Bibra Lake test centre, to

verify the kiln process has not impacted the strength of the pole, and outline why this process can be repeated to provide consistent quality poles.

Record keeping

The total schedule for each kiln dried batch must be recorded and saved for future reference.

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Appendix C. Pole moisture content testing

Method

Testing shall be carried out in accordance with AS/NZS 1080.1 with the oven dry method or the

resistance meter/capacitance meter method.

Test meter & calibration

In every case, the meters must be fitted with probes reaching 50mm into pine poles and 28mm into

hardwood poles. All meters shall be calibrated to the standard resistance relationship contained in

AS/NZS 1080.1.

Testing is required to be performed within 14 days prior to CCA treatment.

From time to time, Western Power shall carry out an identical test on the same pole to compare results.

Testing personnel

The test operators shall be trained in the use of the test meter and be responsible for its accurate use.

They shall also be responsible for calibration, and recording all results.

The test operators are expected to adopt procedures to ensure a high degree of statistical repeatability when re-measuring the same poles.

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Appendix D. Approved fire retardant products

Nukote NAUS FireStop FSP has been approved in WP to be used as a fire retardant paint.

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Appendix E. Calculated minimum pole dimensions

S2 Timber

Table E.1: Requirements for S2 Timber, Characteristic Bending Strength (f’b) = 80 MPa

Network

Pole type - Length(m)/

Working stress(kN)


Ultimate tip load capacity

(factored) (kN)

Diameter (m) Standard embedment

depth (m) Top (nom.)

Ground line

Butt (nom.)

Distribution 9.5/5 13.1 10 169 248 264 1.55

11/4 10.5 8 149 242 259 1.7

11/5 13.1 10 168 261 278 1.7

11/6 17.0 13 184 277 294 1.7

12.5/4 10.5 8 147 253 272 1.85

12.5/6 17.0 13 184 290 309 1.85

12.5/8 22.2 17 213 319 338 1.85

14/8 22.2 17 212 332 352 2.0

SSP3 14/8 22.2 17 212 322 352 3.0

Transmission 15.5/10 28 21.4 230 358 385 2.69

17/10 30.1 23 239 382 409 2.82

18.5/10 33.6 25.7 246 395 424 2.94

20/10 35.5 27.2 253 411 442 3.07

21.5/10 37.4 28.6 259 427 459 3.19

S5 Timber

Table E.2: Requirements for S5 Timber, Characteristic Bending Strength (f’b) = 40 MPa

Network


Working stress(kN)



(factored) (kN)



Ground line

Butt (nom.)

Distribution 9.5/5 13.1 10 233 312 328 1.55

11/4 10.5 8 212 305 322 1.7

11/5 13.1 10 236 329 346 1.7

11/6 17.0 13 256 349 366 1.7

12.5/4 10.5 8 213 319 338 1.85

12.5/6 17.0 13 259 365 384 1.85

12.5/8 22.2 17 296 402 421 1.85

14/8 22.2 17 299 419 439 2.0

SSP1 11/6 17.0 13 256 340 366 2.55

SSP2 12.5/8 22.2 17 296 393 421 2.8

SSP3 14/8 22.2 17 299 409 439 3.0

EDM 34014038

S6 Timber

Table E.3: Requirements for S6 Timber, Characteristic Bending Strength (f’b) = 35 MPa. This allows for

25mm knots in the Bottom Critical Zone and 50mm knots elsewhere.

Network


Working stress(kN)



(factored) (kN)



Ground line

Butt (nom.)

Distribution 9.5/5 13.1 10 247 326 342 1.55

11/4 10.5 8 226 319 336 1.7

11/5 13.1 10 251 344 361 1.7

11/6 17.0 13 273 366 383 1.7

12.5/4 10.5 8 228 334 353 1.85

12.5/6 17.0 13 276 382 401 1.85

12.5/8 22.2 17 315 421 440 1.85

SSP1 11/6 17.0 13 264 348 374 2.55

SSP2 12.5/8 22.2 17 301 398 426 2.8

Table E.4: Requirements for S6 Timber, Characteristic Bending Strength (f’b) = 35 MPa. This allows for

knots >25mm and ≤50mm in the Bottom Critical Zone and 60mm knots elsewhere.

Network


Working stress(kN)

Min characteristic breaking load capacity (kN)


(factored) (kN)



Ground line

Butt (nom.)

Distribution 9.5/5 13.1 10 260 339 355 1.55

11/4 10.5 8 239 332 349 1.7

11/5 13.1 10 265 358 375 1.7

11/6 17.0 13 287 380 397 1.7

12.5/4 10.5 8 242 348 367 1.85

12.5/6 17.0 13 292 398 417 1.85

12.5/8 22.2 17 333 439 458 1.85

SSP1 11/6 17.0 13 272 356 382 2.55

SSP2 12.5/8 22.2 17 315 412 440 2.8

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Appendix F. Standard pole cap drawing

(Western Power Drawing Number: T5003/6/0/1/1)

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Appendix G. Western Power wood pole stock codes

The stock codes for the painted (fire retardant) and unpainted wood pole types are in Table G.1:

Table G.1: Western Power wood pole stock codes

Network Pole type

Pole length (m)/ Working load (kN)

Ultimate tip load capacity (Factored)

(kN)

WP Stock Code

Unpainted Painted

Distribution 9.5/5 10 CW1205 CW1101

11/4 8 CW1214 CW1103

11/5 10 CW1215 CW1113

11/6 13 CW1216 CW1102

12.5/4 8 CW1224 CW1104

12.5/6 13 CW1226 CW1105

12.5/8 17 CW1228 CW1112

14/8 17 CW1247 CW1106

SSP1 (11/6) 13 CW1123 CW1120

SSP2 (12.5/8) 17 CW1122 CW1121

SSP3 (14/8) 17 CW1124 CW1125

Transmission 15.5/10 20 CW1270 CW1116

17/10 20 CW1280 CW1107

18.5/10 20 CW1290 CW1108

20/10 20 CW1300 CW1109

21.5/10 20 CW1301 CW1110