Steel lattice pylons and towers

A pylon is a slender structure sized by wind rather than by weight. Its design calls for a specific calculation, and its durability rests almost entirely on the protective treatment.

What we supply

• Lattice pylons — telecom and antenna supports
• Power pylons and supports — distribution lines, substations
• Tubular masts — moderate heights, constrained sites
• Armament fittings — brackets, supports, cable trays
• Access and safety — caged ladders, working platforms
• Foundations and anchors — holding down bolts, base plates

Families of pylon

What sizes a pylon

Unlike a building, a pylon is rarely governed by its own weight. Three actions drive the design:

1. Wind on the structure — triangulation presents a small area, but every angle counts
2. Wind on the attached loads — antennas, dishes, conductors: often the dominant share
3. Seismic action — RPS 2011 check, decisive on the foundation blocks

On top of that sits a deflection requirement: a microwave antenna tolerates very little rotation at the head. A pylon can be strong enough and still be unusable if it moves too much.

Galvanising: coating thickness sets the service life

EN ISO 1461 sets minimum zinc coating thicknesses according to steel thickness: the thicker the member, the heavier the deposit. That mass of zinc determines how long the protection lasts — decades in a mild environment, markedly less in a marine one.

Two practical consequences. Members must be designed to be galvanised: vent and drain holes, no sealed voids, or the zinc bath cannot circulate. And drilling must be finished before galvanising: drilling afterwards exposes bare steel at the most highly stressed point.

Materials

Sectors

• Telecom — operators, tower companies, densification sites
• Energy — distribution lines, substations
• Industry — lighting supports, technical masts, gantries
• Local authorities — street lighting, signage, CCTV supports

Framework applicable to the trade. Certifications provided on request.