Most problems with a steel pole do not start in the pole but underneath it. An undersized foundation or misplaced anchor bolts lead to leaning, vibration or costly rework. That is why installation starts long before the crane arrives.
1. Site survey and foundation design
Before digging, we define what the pole will carry (signals, cameras, luminaires, panels), its height and the site conditions. The foundation is then sized for self-weight, wind load on the pole and its equipment, and soil type. Existing utilities under the sidewalk are checked to avoid clashes with pipes or ducts.
2. Excavation, rebar and anchor bolts
Once the layout is approved, the pit is excavated and the rebar is placed together with the anchor bolt cage. The bolts are held by a template that matches the hole pattern of the pole base plate, which guarantees everything fits on erection day. Conduits for cabling and grounding are also left in place at this stage.
3. Concrete pour and curing
The concrete is poured and vibrated, and the template position and level are checked again. Then comes the step most often cut short: curing. The pole should not be erected until the concrete reaches the strength defined in the design.
Common mistake: erecting the pole early to meet a deadline. A few days gained on site can cost the stability of the whole structure.
4. Lifting and erection
The pole is lifted by crane and set on the bolts. The lower nuts allow precise leveling until the pole is plumb; the upper nuts are then tightened as specified and the base is protected.
5. Connections and site reinstatement
With the pole in place, arms and equipment are installed, cabling is pulled, grounding is connected and the sidewalk or paving is reinstated. On busy roads this work is often scheduled at night to reduce the impact on traffic.
6. Inspection and handover
Before handover we check plumbness, bolt tightness, coating condition and equipment operation. Everything is documented for the client.
What to ask your supplier
- A foundation design that matches the pole and the site soil.
- A bolt template made together with the base plate.
- Respect for curing time before erection.
- One party accountable for both manufacturing and installation.
SEBLAN manufactures poles at its Quito plant and installs them with its own crew. See our services for traffic signals and road signage, CCTV camera poles and steel structures.
About the author. Industrias SEBLAN has manufactured and installed poles, traffic signals and steel structures in Ecuador since 1993, under an ISO 9001 quality management system.