Vibration analyses of electrical transmission spun-cast concrete poles for health monitoring

Spun-cast concrete poles have been increasingly used in power line support in U.S. during the past decade. Dynamic behaviors of these pole structures are critical design considerations due to the wind and conductor effects. However, free vibration of pole structures has rarely been studied and existing design guidelines do not provide clear information associated with pole natural frequencies. To build-up knowledge in pole vibration, analyses of concrete poles of various sizes and classes were performed numerically. The finite element models were verified with experimental modal data from several poles. Based on the study, empirical relations between geometric parameters and pole natural frequencies were developed, which are very basic information for health monitoring of power lines.