Poles ahead
23 Aug 2010
The first of a locally-designed 66,000 volt power pole has been erected in McMinn Street.
Power and Water networks staff worked with Berrimah-based Foremost Engineering to develop a steel pole for transmission powerlines as an alternative to the concrete ones currently trucked in from interstate.
Power Networks General Manager Bertram Birk said the poles recently passed rigorous testing to prove their cyclone withstand ability.
“Foremost Engineering approached us with the concept for this pole and we worked with them on the specifics,” he said.
“We then had the opportunity to put one into service when we need to replace a damaged pole in Darwin city."
Mr Birk said crews actually found working with this new pole easier.
"It is great to be able to source another product locally - and now there is interest in this design from other utilities interstate.”
The new pole was installed in two stages.
The base was placed on Saturday and the concrete allowed to set until Monday, when the top was placed and the powerlines reconnected.
Electricity supply was successfully restored through the line once the installation was complete.

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