Types of Anchor Bolts for Utility Poles
Lighting Pole Anchoring
For street and area lighting, cast-in-place anchor bolts (per ASTM F1554) are standard. These bolts feature a threaded end for nut engagement and a square or hex head embedded in concrete. Precision alignment during installation prevents misalignment-induced stress, which is critical for LED fixtures with vibration-sensitive components.
Galvanized Anchor Bolts
Hot-dip
galvanized bolts (ASTM A153) dominate coastal and industrial environments due to their zinc coating’s sacrificial corrosion protection. A 2023 study showed galvanized anchors in salt-laden atmospheres outlast plain steel by 8–12 years. Their use in lighting poles ensures longevity despite road salt exposure or chemical drift from nearby factories.
High Mast Lighting Systems
Towering 30–50 meters, high mast poles require heavy-duty anchor bolts with diameters up to 2.5 inches. These bolts use a dual-embedment design: a lower straight shank for concrete bonding and an upper threaded section for pole connection. Wind tunnel tests confirm that helical grooves on the shank improve pullout resistance by 25% in sandy soils.
Cross-Application Considerations
- Load Capacity: High mast bolts must withstand 500+ kN uplift forces, requiring grade 80 steel.
- Environmental Adaptation: Galvanized bolts in humid zones should pair with stainless steel nuts to avoid thread galling.
- Installation Precision: Lighting poles demand ±2mm alignment tolerance to prevent pole lean, achievable through laser-guided templates.