RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.

0
Page 1 of 25

®
Duraspun Concrete Poles

RocPole™
COMMUNICATION POLE
User Guide Version 4.0

Issue: May, 2004

Approved:

K.R. Beattie
Manager – Rocla Concrete Poles
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 2 of 25

COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE
This manual is exclusively for use with the Rocla RocPole™ Pole Selection Program V.4.xx.

The information contained in the program is confidential and is not to be disclosed to any other person
without written permission from Rocla Pty Ltd. Unauthorised copying of this information may result in
prosecution. IF YOU ARE NOT PREPARED TO TREAT THIS INFORMATION AS CONFIDENTIAL, YOU
MUST RETURN THE PROGRAM TO ROCLA IMMEDIATELY.

The software remains the property of Rocla Pty Ltd, and the manual and software is subject to return on
demand. You are not permitted to make copies of the software program without written permission from
Rocla. They are submitted for use only in connection with proposals and contracts of Rocla Pty Ltd. Data
is to be used only with reference to products manufactured and supplied by Rocla Pty Ltd.

The customer agrees that Rocla will not be liable on any legal basis for any loss, damage, costs or
expenses incurred by the customer arising out of or in connection with the provision or use of this
software, other than liability imposed by any applicable legislation which may not be excluded by
agreement.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 3 of 25

Index
COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE ...................................................................................................2
Index ................................................................................................................................................3
1. General Description ..................................................................................................................4
2. Accessories and Fittings...........................................................................................................5
3. Definitions .................................................................................................................................7
4. Design Information....................................................................................................................8
4.1. Design Basis......................................................................................................................8
4.2. Tip Fittings and Tip Strengths............................................................................................8
4.2.1. LT Type Poles ............................................................................................................8
4.2.2. Notes on Tip Strengths for LT Poles ..........................................................................9
4.2.3. SR and EX (Extendable) Type poles........................................................................10
4.2.4. Notes on Tip Strengths for SR and EX Poles...........................................................10
5. Pole Footings..........................................................................................................................11
5.1. Footing Design Principles................................................................................................11
5.2. “F3” and “F5” Foundation Options ...................................................................................12
6. Design Loads..........................................................................................................................13
6.1. Strength and Stiffness Below Ground ............................................................................13
Table 3: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength for LT, SR2 & SR3 Poles.........................14
Table 4: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength for EX2 & EX3 Poles ...............................15
Table 5: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength for SR4 & SR5 Poles...............................16
Table 6: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength for EX4 & EX5 Poles ...............................17
Table A1: Stiffness (EI) Values ......................................................................................................18
Table B1: Stiffness (EI) Values for Superseded Poles ..................................................................19
Table B2: Design BM and Shear Strength for Superceded Communication Poles .......................20
Notes on Tables.............................................................................................................................21
6.2. Ground Level Joints.........................................................................................................21
7. Cutting and Drilling of Poles ...................................................................................................21
7.1. Bonding Ferrules Into Finished Product ..........................................................................22
7.2. Maintenance & Repair .....................................................................................................22
8. Lifting and Handling ................................................................................................................23
Appendix A – Drawing List.............................................................................................................24
Appendix B - Drawings for Historical purposes (Superseded Drawings).......................................25
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 4 of 25

1. General Description
Rocla Duraspun® concrete poles are the result of over 45 years experience in the design and manufacture
of quality spun concrete products. All concrete pole manufacturing sites have a Quality Assurance System
accredited to ISO9002.

Rocla provides a range of Communication poles that are designed to support a wide range of antennae
configurations under most wind loading conditions in Australia. Communication poles require high
resistance to rotations under serviceability wind loads as well as satisfy ultimate strength requirements.
Rocla Duraspun®, prestressed concrete is an ideal choice for these applications.

The Rocla Duraspun® Communication pole range includes SR, LT and EX type poles;

• SR poles are ‘heavy duty’ types, catering for high loads and/or large sail areas.

• LT poles are slimmer, and are designed for less heavily loaded applications.

• EX type poles are ‘extendable’ types. They may be extended with a 5 metre concrete extension.

All poles are extendable via a steel turret using the tip ferrules provided.

Rocla Duraspun®, prestressed concrete communication poles are manufactured by the centrifugal
spinning method using high tensile reinforcement (stressed and unstressed), accurately positioned in steel
forms, and high performance concrete. The unstressed reinforcing cage contributes to strength as well as
forming an internal earthing system that is continuous throughout the pole. The poles are manufactured in
convenient length sections that are bolted together on site.

A range of fittings are available, these include:

• Step ferrules and associated step bolts.

• Stainless steel ferrules and stainless steel hole-formers to allow structural steel connections.

• Fixtures to accommodate commercial climbing systems (eg. Lad-Saf connections).

• Pole caps.

• Earthing ferrules.

• Hatch doors and cable entry openings to provide cable access to and from the pole.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 5 of 25

2. Accessories and Fittings

M-12 Earth Ferrule M-16 Step Ferrule Bolt-on Ladder Bracket

Pre-assembled Hold-Down Bolt

600 x 300mm Cable Entry Port Tip Ferrules (4 x M16 or 4 x M24)
Assemblies (for pad footings)

Cable Exit Hatch Pole Painting Lad-Saf Cable Guide

M-16 Earth Ferrule 75 x 150mm Cable Exit Slot Lad-Saf Bottom Anchor on Pole

Jointing Spanner Joint Lug Assembly Jointing Epoxy

 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 6 of 25

All Rocla Duraspun® Communication poles are identifiable by a small rectangular name plate which is
located on the pole approximately 1.5m above ground line or for above ground jointed sections, 1.5m
above the butt end of the section. The name plate describes the place of manufacture, pole type, section
length and mass, site number, carrier and date of manufacture.

Poles can also be painted to suit individual requirements.

The manual and associated proprietary software called “RocpoleTM” provides information intended to
assist a suitably qualified person to select the appropriate pole for a particular site or to check whether an
existing pole is suitable with a modified antenna loading. Rocla is also able to provide engineering backup
services including foundation design and certification, and pole structural certificates.

Standard fittings arrangements exist for most Rocla Communication Poles. The standard fittings drawings
are available for download from our website (http://pipe.rocla.com.au/poles/communications/).
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 7 of 25

3. Definitions
Term Definition

Mu Ultimate bending moment strength

Ø Mu Design bending moment strength

Mc Effective bending moment strength

SBM Secondary bending moment generated from offset vertical loads via pole
deflection

Ø Strength reduction factor

Ms The sum of primary bending moments acting on the pole

Mo The over-turning moment acting on the foundation at ground level

‘Point of Fixity’ The distance below ground level to the point of assumed maximum bending
moment in the foundation.

Vu Ultimate shear strength

Ø Vu Design shear strength

V* Design shear force (serviceability or ultimate limit state)

G Dead load = pole weight + pole attachment weight

Wu Ultimate wind load

Mo (max) Maximum value of Mo

Ms (max) Maximum value of Ms

GL Ground level

AGL Above ground level

Cd Co-efficient of drag
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 8 of 25

4. Design Information

4.1. Design Basis

The design criteria for V4.0 Communication poles are:

• The default Serviceability Basic wind speed is generally taken to be 28 m/s1.

• The maximum allowable pole tip rotation under Serviceability conditions is generally assumed to
be 1.0° (comprising the addition of ‘pole rotation’ and ‘foundation rotation’).

• Wind load calculations are to AS/NZS 1170.2 – 2002, Structural design actions; Part 2: Wind
Actions.

• The critical Strength Limit State load combination is: 1.1G + Wu (AS3600 – 2001 3.3.1)

• Secondary bending moments (SBM’s) due to pole deflection are taken into account.

The ‘pole attachments’ dead loads are assumed to be equivalent to vertical tip loads of:

• 10 kN for SR, CC and EX Type poles, and:

• 6 kN for LT Type poles.

SBM calculations include a 1.0 degree foundation rotation allowance at ground level under Ultimate load
conditions. SBMs are omitted under Serviceability conditions due to the inherently small pole deflections.

• The ‘effective design strength’ Mc = (Ø x Mu) – SBM’s (where Ø = 0.9)

• Calculations are based on standard Rocla design basis.

• SBM’s are determined as above.

• The minimum spun concrete strength f’c = 65 MPa.

• AS/NZS4065-2000 and AS3600-2001 are reference codes.

• Exposure Classifications A1, A2 and B1 to AS3600-2001 are acceptable.

4.2. Tip Fittings and Tip Strengths

Rocpole™ design program V4.0 shows ‘effective bending strengths’ for each pole type from the tip to the
‘point of fixity’. However, the useable strength may be limited by fittings or steelwork. The following
information relates to poles where the structural strength is limited by the fittings at the tip.

4.2.1. LT Type Poles

The tip of each LT type pole has 4 No M16 ferrule assemblies. The useable tip strength of each LT type
pole may be limited by either the thread strength of the ferrules or the grade of bolt used in the ferrules:

1
AS4676-2000, Structural design requirements for utility services poles.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 9 of 25

Tip Diameter Tip Strength (kNm)

Pole Type Tip Mc (kNm)
(mm)
Grade 4.6 bolts Grade 8.8 bolts
LT-A 315 35 21 35
LT-B 360 45 24 42
LT-C 390 70 26 48

Table 1 – Tip strength for LT type poles.

4.2.2. Notes on Tip Strengths for LT Poles

‘Tip Mc’ = the effective bending strength of the pole at the tip as shown in Rocpole V4.0.

‘Tip Strength’ = the effective bending strength of the pole at the tip, the value depending upon the grade
of bolt used in each ferrule. A Ø factor = 0.8 has been applied for these calculations without ‘secondary’
moments. Shear load effects on the bolts has not been considered.

• The design tensile strength of each M16 tip ferrule, Ø x Ntf, = 72 kN (Ø = 0.8).

• The design tensile strength of Grade M16 4.6 bolts, Ø x Ntf, = 50 kN (Ø = 0.8).

• The design tensile strength of Grade M16 8.8 bolts, Ø x Ntf, = 104 kN (Ø = 0.8). The ferrule
strength limits the connection strength in this case.

• The maximum ultimate load in an M16 bolt should be no greater than 72 kN.

• The 4 No. ferrules are equally spaced on a PCD = tip OD – 70.

The strengths shown assume that the attached steelwork is sufficiently stiff to adequately transfer the
loads. Tip ferrule orientation details are shown in drawing 90779A.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 10 of 25

4.2.3. SR and EX (Extendable) Type poles

The tip of each SR and EX (tip of 5m extension) type pole has 4 No M-24 ferrule assemblies. The useable
strength of the pole may be dependent upon the Grade of bolt being used in the ferrules:

Pole Tip diameter Tip Strength (kNm)

Tip Mc (kNm)
(mm)
Grade 4.6 bolts Grade 8.8 bolts
450 110 60 110
525 130 70 130
540 140 75 140
600 160 80 160
615 170 90 170
675 180 100 180
750 200 110 200
825 250 120 240
900 300 130 270
990 350 140 300
1050 400 150 320

Table 2 – Tip strength for SR and EX type poles.

4.2.4. Notes on Tip Strengths for SR and EX Poles

• The design tensile strength of each M24 tip ferrule is greater than 234 kN (the strength of each
ferrule is limited by the bolt strength in all cases).

• The design tensile strength of Grade 4.6 M24 bolts, Ø x Ntf, = 113 kN (Ø = 0.8).

• The design tensile strength of Grade 8.8 M24 bolts, Ø x Ntf, = 234 kN (Ø = 0.8).

• The 4 No ferrules are equally spaced on a PCD = tip OD – 80.

The strengths shown assume that the attached steelwork is sufficiently stiff to adequately transfer the
loads.

Tip ferrule orientation details are shown in drawing 90779A.

 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 11 of 25

5. Pole Footings
Rocla Duraspun® Communication poles can utilise a number of footing solutions depending on the soil
conditions;

• Direct embedded (standard installation for most ground conditions), [89104B]

• Mounted to pad/raft footing for rocky ground or poor soils, [90749D]

• Hybrid, collared type installation, or [90949 A]

• Mounted to a driven concrete pile in soils of very low strength [contact Rocla for further
information]

Footing design is a specialist field requiring geotechnical knowledge and is not addressed in this manual.
However, the structural implications of a foundation design impact on the pole and advice from Rocla may
be required.

An in-house footing design service is available. Please contact your Rocla representative for further
information.

The nominated embedment depth for each pole size is predetermined, being the difference between pole
length and height above ground. These embedment depths are intended to suit ‘normal’ or ‘average’ types
of soils. However, the foundation designer needs to ensure that stability and Limit State conditions are
satisfied for each application.

For saline ground water conditions the butt of the pole should be sealed to prevent water ingress. Other
protective measures may also need to be considered. The following design information is intended to
assist the foundation designer.

5.1. Footing Design Principles

Pole foundations need to resist over-turning moments and shear forces under Serviceability and Ultimate
loading conditions. Foundations must also be able to resist vertical forces.

The primary factors influencing the direct buried type footing design are:

• Over-turning moment (at ground level).

• Shear force (at ground level).

• Embedment depth.

• Pier diameter.

• Soil strength.

The pier diameter is normally taken to be the hole diameter when the backfill material is significantly
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 12 of 25

stronger than the immediate foundation material. This is the case for communication poles because, to
minimise pole rotation, concrete backfill is typically used. The soil strength or adoption of soil resistance
properties is a geotechnical issue.

The critical issue under serviceability loading conditions is ‘footing rotation’. Various methods can be used
to calculate this rotation. This is the responsibility of the designer. The critical issue under ultimate loading
conditions is ‘foundation strength’. Again, this is the responsibility of the foundation designer.

5.2. “F3” and “F5” Foundation Options

“F3” and “F5” are two specific types of direct embedded footings designed such that the above ground
pole sections can be replaced by stronger pole sections without replacing the footing. For example, an
“F3” footing could be installed with an SR2 type pole and at some stage in the future, this SR2 may be
replaced with an SR3 pole. This upgrade will provide extra strength capacity to cope with additional
antennas.

The “F5” is a stronger direct embedded footing. The “F5” is the strongest direct buried footing currently
available and will allow the pole to be upgraded to the current maximum pole strength ie. SR5.

The advantage of using these footings is that a pole swap-out can be achieved without additional work to
the foundation. The above-ground pole section(s) can be removed and replaced with a higher strength
pole.

Refer to drawing 90983A for “F3” and “F5” Foundations.

 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 13 of 25

6. Design Loads
The primary moment, Ms, and the shear force, V*, acting on the pole at ground level are to be obtained
from the relevant Communication pole certificate.

The design over-turning moment is the sum of the primary moment plus the ‘secondary bending moment’.

ie: Mo = Ms + SBM’s (at ground level)

Tables 3 to 6 detail the maximum Mo values associated with the corresponding maximum Ms values for
each pole type. For values of Ms less than the maximum, use:

M 
M O =  O(max) M S
M 
 S(max) 

6.1. Strength and Stiffness Below Ground

Tables 3 to 6 detail the ‘below ground’ design bending moment strength and design shear strengths for all
the nominated pole sizes.

The design shear strength (Ø x Vu) values are based on Vu as determined by Rocla design methods and
assuming a Ø factor = 0.9. Vu represents the minimum ultimate shear strength. A Ø factor = 0.9 is
considered appropriate for the application of communication poles. However, a smaller Ø factor as per
AS3600 may be adopted.
 RocPole User Guide Version 4.0
Page 14 of 26

Table 3: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength For LT, SR2 & SR3 Poles

Design BM strength Design shear strength

Ms (max) Mo (max)
Pole Type X1 X2 X3 X4 B1 B2
(kNm) (kNm) Y2 (m) Y3 (m) Y4 (m) A2 (m) A3 (m)
(kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm)
LT-A10 240 260 0.5 1.7 2.5 260 270 245 80 0.5 2.5 200 300
LT-A12 280 310 0.5 2.0 3.0 310 320 290 90 0.5 3.0 220 305
LT-A15 340 370 0.5 2.0 3.0 370 385 350 110 0.5 3.0 230 310
LT-A17 370 405 0.5 2.0 3.0 405 415 375 120 0.5 3.0 240 330
LT-A20 410 460 1.0 2.7 4.0 460 475 430 140 1.0 4.0 270 360
LT-A23 616 710 1.0 2.7 4.0 710 750 675 220 1.0 4.0 310 410
LT-A26 660 790 1.0 2.7 4.0 790 820 740 240 1.0 4.0 330 440
LT-A30 702 880 1.0 2.7 4.0 880 910 820 270 1.0 4.0 350 500

LT-B12 357 385 1.0 2.0 3.0 385 400 360 120 1.0 3.0 240 330
LT-B15 437 470 0.5 2.0 3.0 470 485 440 140 0.5 3.0 250 340
LT-B17 468 510 0.5 2.0 3.0 510 520 470 150 0.5 3.0 270 360
LT-B20 526 590 1.0 2.7 4.0 590 620 560 180 1.0 4.0 290 390
LT-B23 762 865 1.0 2.7 4.0 865 890 805 260 1.0 4.0 310 420
LT-B26 814 945 1.0 2.7 4.0 945 970 875 290 1.0 4.0 340 450
LT-B30 848 1,055 1.0 2.7 4.0 1,055 1,080 975 320 1.0 4.0 370 510

LT-C35 1,450 1,695 1.0 3.5 5.0 1,695 1,750 1,575 520 1.0 5.0 400 620

SR2-H15-450 599 630 0.5 2.0 3.0 630 650 585 190 0.5 3.0 330 430
SR2-H20-450 1,010 1,090 1.0 2.5 3.7 1,090 1,150 1,035 340 1.0 3.7 390 570
SR2-H25-540 1,282 1,400 1.0 3.0 4.5 1,400 1,465 1,320 440 1.0 4.5 520 680
SR2-H30-540 1,700 1,890 1.0 3.5 5.0 1,890 1,970 1,775 590 1.0 5.0 530 750
SR2-H35-540* 2,112 2,400 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,400 2,500 2,250 750 1.0 5.0 580 900
SR2-H40-540* 2,470 2,860 1.0 4.0 5.5 2,860 3,000 2,700 900 1.0 5.5 600 1,000

SR3-H15-615* 1,718 1,765 0.5 3.5 5.0 1,765 1,905 1,715 570 0.5 5.0 470 860
SR3-H20-615* 2,116 2,220 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,220 2,370 2,135 710 1.0 5.0 520 940
SR3-H25-615* 2,090 2,260 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,260 2,350 2,115 700 1.0 5.0 530 1,020
SR3-H30-615* 2,703 2,965 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,965 3,105 2,795 930 1.0 5.0 580 1,130
SR3-H35-615* 2,820 3,150 1.0 4.5 6.0 3,150 3,230 2,910 970 1.0 6.0 620 1,140
SR3-H40-615* 2,820 3,400 1.0 4.5 6.0 3,400 3,500 3,150 1,050 1.0 6.0 620 1,140

Note : For design purpose B2 = B3.

A1 = Y1 = 0 for all poles
Ms(max) = Maximum Ms value
Mo(max) = Maximum Mo value

GL Y1 X1 GL A1 B1

Y2 X2 A2 B2
Point of Fixity Point of Fixity
Dist from GL
Dist from GL

Y3 X3

Y4 A3 B3
X4
Design BM strength Design Shear strength

* Embedded section of pole to be in-filled with concrete as per Rocla specifications

Revision Level: 4.00

 RocPole User Guide Version 4.0
Page 15 of 25

Table 4: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength For EX2, EX3 Poles
Design BM strength Design shear strength
Ms (max) Mo (max)
Pole Type X1 X2 X3 X4 B1 B2
(kNm) (kNm) Y2 (m) Y3 (m) Y4 (m) A2 (m) A3 (m)
(kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm)
EX2-H15-525 1,010 1,090 1.0 2.5 3.7 1,090 1,150 1,035 340 1.0 3.7 390 570
EX2-H20-615 1,282 1,400 1.0 3.0 4.5 1,400 1,465 1,320 440 1.0 4.5 520 680
EX2-H25-615 1,700 1,890 1.0 3.5 5.0 1,890 1,970 1,775 590 1.0 5.0 530 750
EX2-H30-615* 2,112 2,400 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,400 2,500 2,250 750 1.0 5.0 580 900

EX3-H15-690* 2,116 2,220 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,220 2,370 2,135 710 1.0 5.0 520 940
EX3-H20-690* 2,090 2,260 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,260 2,350 2,115 700 1.0 5.0 530 1,020
EX3-H25-690* 2,703 2,965 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,965 3,105 2,795 930 1.0 5.0 580 1,130
EX3-H30-690* 2,820 3,150 1.0 4.5 6.0 3,150 3,230 2,910 970 1.0 6.0 620 1,140

Note : For design purpose B2 = B3.

A1 = Y1 = 0 for all poles
Ms(max) = Maximum Ms value
Mo(max) = Maximum Mo value

GL Y1 X1 GL A1 B1

Y2 X2 A2 B2
Point of Fixity Point of Fixity
Dist from GL
Dist from GL

Y3 X3

Y4 A3 B3
X4
Design BM strength Design Shear strength

* Embedded section of pole to be in-filled with concrete as per Rocla specifications.

Revision Level: 4.00

 RocPole User Guide Version 4.0
Page 16 of 25

Table 5: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength For SR4, SR5 Poles
Design BM strength Design shear strength
M s (max) M o (max)
Pole Type X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 B1 B2
(kNm) (kNm) Y2 (m) Y3 (m) Y4 (m) A2 (m) A3 (m)
(kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm)
SR4-H15-1050* 4,155 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H19-990* 4,120 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H25-900* 4,035 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H30-825* 3,940 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H35-750* 3,810 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H40-675* 3,670 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H45-600* 3,495 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200
SR4-H50-525* 3,315 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7 710 1,200

SR5-H19-990* 6,870 7,010 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,010 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300
SR5-H25-915* 6,870 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300
SR5-H30-840* 6,680 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300
SR5-H35-765* 6,470 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300
SR5-H40-690* 6,140 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300
SR5-H45-615* 6,000 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300
SR5-H50-540* 5,690 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9 710 1,300

Note : For design purpose B2 = B3.

A1 = Y1 = 0 for all poles
Ms(max) = Maximum Ms value
Mo(max) = Maximum Mo value

GL Y1 X1 GL A1 B1

Y2 X2
Dist from GL
Dist from GL

Y3 X3 A2 B2
Point of Fixity Point of Fixity

Y4 X4

Y5 X4 A3 B3

Design BM strength Design Shear strength

* Embedded section of pole to be in-filled with concrete as per Rocla specifications.

Revision Level: 4.0

 RocPole User Guide Version 4.0
Page 17 of 25

Table 6: Design Bending Moment and Shear Strength For EX4 & EX5 Poles
Design BM strength Design shear strength
Ms (max) Mo (max)
Pole Type X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 B1 B2
(kNm) (kNm) Y2 (m) Y3 (m) Y4 (m) A2 (m) A3 (m)
(kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm)
EX4-H14-1065* 4,120 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200
EX4-H20-975* 4,035 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200
EX4-H25-900* 3,940 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200
EX4-H30-825* 3,810 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200
EX4-H35-750* 3,670 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200
EX4-H40-675* 3,495 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200
EX4-H45-600* 3,315 4,220 0.5 1.5 5.5 7.0 4,220 4,500 4,100 1,300 1.5 7.0 710 1,200

EX5-H14-1065* 6,870 7,010 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,010 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300
EX5-H20-990* 6,870 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300
EX5-H25-915* 6,680 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300
EX5-H30-840* 6,470 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300
EX5-H35-765* 6,140 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300
EX5-H40-690* 6,000 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300
EX5-H45-615* 5,690 7,150 1.0 2.5 7.5 9.0 7,150 7,800 6,900 2,000 2.5 9.0 710 1,300

Note : For design purpose B2 = B3.

A1 = Y1 = 0 for all poles
Ms(max) = Maximum Ms value
Mo(max) = Maximum Mo value

GL Y1 X1 GL A1 B1

Y2 X2
Dist from GL
Dist from GL

Y3 X3 A2 B2
Point of Fixity Point of Fixity

Y4 X4

Y5 X4 A3 B3

Design BM strength Design Shear strength

* Embedded section of pole to be in-filled with concrete as per Rocla specifications

Revision Level: 4.0

 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 18 of 25

Table A1: Stiffness (EI) Values

Embedment
Tip OD Total Length Stiffness (EI)
Pole Type Depth
(mm) (m) (Nm2)
(m)
SR2-H15-450 450 18.0 3.0 3.02E+08
SR2-H20-450 450 23.7 3.7 4.84E+08
SR2-H25-540 540 29.5 4.5 8.96E+08
SR2-H30-540 540 35.0 5.0 1.18E+09
SR2-H35-540 540 40.0 5.0 1.60E+09
SR2-H40-540 540 45.5 5.5 2.04E+09
SR3-H15-615 615 20.0 5.0 7.78E+08
SR3-H20-615 615 25.0 5.0 1.05E+09
SR3-H25-615 615 30.0 5.0 1.32E+09
SR3-H30-615 615 35.0 5.0 1.69E+09
SR3-H35-615 615 41.0 6.0 1.69E+09
SR3-H40-615 615 46.0 6.0 1.69E+09
SR4-H15-1050 1050 22.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H19-990 990 26.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H25-900 900 32.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H30-825 825 37.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H35-750 750 42.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H40-675 675 47.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H45-600 600 52.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR4-H50-525 525 57.0 7.0 2.25E+09
SR5-H19-990 990 28.0 9.0 2.368E+09
SR5-H25-915 915 33.8 9.0 2.368E+09
SR5-H30-840 840 38.8 9.0 2.368E+09
SR5-H35-765 765 44.0 9.0 2.368E+09
SR5-H40-690 690 49.0 9.0 2.368E+09
SR5-H45-615 615 54.0 9.0 2.368E+09
SR5-H50-540 540 59.0 9.0 2.368E+09
LT-A10 315 12.5 2.5 8.32E+07
LT-A12 315 15.0 3.0 1.05E+08
LT-A15 315 18.0 3.0 1.38E+08
LT-A17 315 20.0 3.0 1.64E+08
LT-A20 315 24.0 4.0 2.18E+08
LT-A23 315 27.0 4.0 2.97E+08
LT-A26 315 30.0 4.0 3.63E+08
LT-A30 315 34.0 4.0 4.69E+08
LT-B12 360 15.0 3.0 1.37E+08
LT-B15 360 18.0 3.0 1.76E+08
LT-B17 360 20.0 3.0 2.08E+08
LT-B20 360 24.0 4.0 2.76E+08
LT-B23 360 27.0 4.0 3.66E+08
LT-B26 360 30.0 4.0 4.42E+08
LT-B30 360 34.0 4.0 5.62E+08
LT-C35 395 40.0 5.0 6.78E+08

Notes:
The embedment depths nominated suit a soil with a 'safe soil bearing strength' of 120 kPa using effective widths to
suit the pole diameters.

Stiffness (EI) values have been calculated at the mid point of the embedment depth.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 19 of 25

Table B1: Stiffness (EI) Values for Superseded Poles

Embedment
Tip OD Total Length Stiffness (EI)
Pole Type Depth
(mm) (m) (Nm2)
(m)
SR1-H15 450 18.0 3.0 2.81E+08
SR1-H20 405 24.0 4.0 3.69E+08
SR1-H20 Jointed 405 23.7 4.0 3.64E+08
SR1-H25 457 29.5 4.5 7.97E+08
SR1-H30 510 35.0 5.0 1.86E+09
SR2-H15 450 18.0 3.0 3.35E+08
SR2-H20 405 23.7 4.0 3.81E+08
SR2-H25 457 29.5 4.5 8.09E+08
SR2-H30 510 35.0 5.0 1.79E+09
SR2-H30-J2 525 35.0 5.0 1.25E+09
SR2-H35 510 40.0 5.0 1.83E+09
SR3-H15 630 18.0 3.0 7.37E+08
SR3-H20 810 24.0 4.0 2.02E+09
SR2-H25 705 30.0 5.0 2.02E+09
SR3-H30 615 35.0 5.0 1.81E+09
SR3-H30-J2 630 35.0 5.0 2.02E+09
SR3-H35 630 41.0 6.0 1.86E+09
LTA15 315 18.0 3.0 1.36E+08
LTA17 315 20.0 3.0 1.62E+08
LTA20 315 24.0 4.0 2.18E+08
LTA23 315 27.0 4.0 2.97E+08
LTA26 315 30.0 4.0 3.63E+08
LTB15 360 18.0 3.0 1.82E+08
LTB17 360 20.0 3.0 2.14E+08
LTB20 360 24.0 4.0 2.85E+08
LTB23 360 27.0 4.0 3.83E+08
LTB26 360 30.0 4.0 4.70E+08

Notes:

The embedment depths nominated suit a soil with a 'safe soil bearing strength' of 120 kPa using effective widths to
suit the pole diameters.

Stiffness (EI) values have been calculated at the mid point of the embedment depth.
 RocPole TM User Guide Version 4.0
Page 20 of 25

Table B2: Design BM and Shear Strength For Superseded Communication Poles
Design BM strength Design shear strength
Tip OD M s (max) M o (max)
Pole Type MR X1 X2 X3 X4 B1 B2
(mm) (kNm) (kNm) Y2 (m) Y3 (m) Y4 (m) A2 (m) A3 (m)
(kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm) (kNm)
LTA15 315 340 370 1.1 0.5 2.0 3.0 370 385 350 110 0.5 3.0 230 310
LTA17 315 370 405 1.1 0.5 2.0 3.0 405 415 375 120 0.5 3.0 240 330
LTA20 315 410 460 1.1 1.0 2.7 4.0 460 475 430 140 1.0 4.0 270 360
LTA23 315 616 710 1.2 1.0 2.7 4.0 710 750 675 220 1.0 4.0 310 410
LTA26 315 660 790 1.2 1.0 2.7 4.0 790 820 740 240 1.0 4.0 330 440

LTB15 360 437 470 1.1 0.5 2.0 3.0 470 485 440 140 0.5 3.0 250 340
LTB17 360 468 510 1.1 0.5 2.0 3.0 510 520 470 150 0.5 3.0 270 360
LTB20 360 526 590 1.1 1.0 2.7 4.0 590 620 560 180 1.0 4.0 290 390
LTB23 360 762 865 1.1 1.0 2.7 4.0 865 890 805 260 1.0 4.0 310 420
LTB26 360 814 945 1.2 1.0 2.7 4.0 945 970 875 290 1.0 4.0 340 450

SR1-H15 450 521 550 1.1 0.5 2.0 3.0 550 565 510 170 0.5 3.0 300 310
SR1-H20 450 580 630 1.1 1.0 2.5 3.7 630 660 595 190 1.0 3.7 350 360
SR1-H20J 450 610 670 1.1 1.0 2.5 3.7 670 710 640 210 1.0 3.7 350 360
SR1-H25 457 796 895 1.1 1.0 3.0 4.5 895 950 855 280 1.0 4.5 420 580
SR1-H30 510 1,180 1,325 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 1,325 1,390 1,255 410 1.0 5.0 700 700

SR2-H15 450 561 590 1.1 0.5 2.0 3.0 590 610 550 180 0.5 3.0 360 370
SR2-H20 405 801 880 1.1 1.0 2.5 3.7 880 940 850 280 1.0 3.7 350 360
SR2-H25 457 1,032 1,155 1.1 1.0 3.0 4.5 1,155 1,220 1,100 360 1.0 4.5 470 530
SR2-H30 510 1,714 1,880 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 1,880 1,980 1,785 590 1.0 5.0 710 710
SR2-H30 525 1,788 1,965 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 1,965 2,065 1,860 620 1.0 5.0 710 710
SR2-H35 510 2,030 2,300 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,300 2,480 2,235 740 1.0 5.0 710 710

SR3-H15 630 1,380 1,420 1.0 0.5 2.0 3.0 1,420 1,470 1,325 440 0.5 3.0 550 560
SR3-H20 810 3,186 3,290 1.0 1.0 2.7 4.0 3,290 3,500 3,150 1,050 1.0 4.0 710 840
SR3-H25 705 2,836 3,005 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 3,005 3,200 2,880 960 1.0 5.0 710 840
SR3-H30 615 2,640 2,860 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,860 3,030 2,730 910 1.0 5.0 760 760
SR3-H30 630 2,664 2,880 1.1 1.0 3.5 5.0 2,880 3,030 2,730 910 1.0 5.0 710 840
SR3-H35 630 2,955 3,270 1.1 1.0 4.5 6.0 3,270 3,430 3,090 1,030 1.0 6.0 710 840

Note : For design purpose B2 = B3.

A1 = Y1 = 0 for all poles
Ms(max) = Maximum M s value
Mo(max) = Maximum M o value

GL Y1 X1 GL A1 B1

Y2 X2 A2 B2
Point of Fixity Point of Fixity
Dist from GL
Dist from GL

Y3 X3

Y4 A3 B3
X4
Design BM strength Design Shear strength
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 21 of 25

Notes on Tables
For poles marked with an asterix (*), the bottom 0.5m (min) of the pole needs to be in-filled with concrete
to allow the full shear strength to be achieved. The in-fill is to be low shrinkage concrete with f’c = 40 MPa,
min.

If a pole does not have adequate shear strength for a particular application, the pole may be strengthened
by a concrete in-fill. Refer to Rocla for advice. However, with deeper embedment, the pole height would
be correspondingly reduced and fittings relative to ground level would change.

Direct embedment type foundations can be improved by increasing the foundation width and/or using a
deeper foundation embedment depth. This approach is commonly used when the foundation soil is
weaker than normal.

An embedment depth, which is less than the nominated value, will generally increase the shear forces
acting on the pole. This is often the case when the foundation material is rock.

In such cases, concrete in-fill of the embedded portion of the pole is a practical means of providing a total
adequate shear strength.

6.2. Ground Level Joints

Joints shown to be located at ground level should be nominally clear of the ground surface so that the joint
can be assembled as per the relevant drawing.

An alternative, where possible, is to join the bottom two sections together and place as a single unit into
the foundation.

7. Cutting and Drilling of Poles

When a section is required to be cut (for example, when reducing the embedment depth), the structural
implications should be checked and confirmed by Rocla.

Conventional cutting methods for steel reinforced, high strength concrete can be used.

At the cut face, the tendons shall be ground back 5mm below the concrete surface. This ground back area
shall be filled with an appropriate epoxy. The cut face shall then be painted with two coats of an
appropriate epoxy to provide a film thickness nominally 0.3mm dry or 0.6mm wet. No painting should be
carried out until the concrete is dry and clean.

If the pole needs to be drilled, use a hammer drill and masonry bit to ensure that the steel reinforcement is
not damaged. Coring or drilling is generally only possible in the top areas of a pole. Consult Rocla for
guidance.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 22 of 25
7.1. Bonding Ferrules Into Finished Product
• Grind two 3mm wide grooves 10mm from the top and bottom of the M16 ferrule approximately
3mm into the corners of the hexagonal.

• Measure and mark where the step ferrule is to be located in the pole. If multiple step ferrules are to
be inserted along the same axis a string line must be used to ensure all steps are properly aligned.

• Using a 25mm masonry drill bit, drill into the concrete to a depth corresponding to the height of
the step ferrule.

• Before bonding the grooved step ferrule into the concrete, clean out all excess debris and dust
from the drilled hole. Ensure step ferrule seats neatly and square in the hole and that the top of the
ferrule doesn't sit proud of the pole surface.

• Coat the step ferrule with MegaPoxy P1 (or equivalent) epoxy resin and also coat the inside
concrete surface of the drilled hole with the same, then insert the step ferrule.

• Ensure the step ferrule has a step bolt screwed in so the ferrule can be placed so as to align
square to the surface of the pole and also to enable the step bolt to align with any other steps that
may be on the same axis.

• Wipe off any excess epoxy resin that may be on the surface of the pole with a damp cloth.

• After allowing the epoxy resin the recommended curing time (as per the manufacturers
instructions), tidy the area around the step ferrule if there is a large amount of concrete to be
replaced. If the step ferrule is a neat fit into the drilled hole, only a small amount of Relpatch needs
to be neatly placed around the top of the step ferrule to finish the repair off.

7.2. Maintenance & Repair

Concrete poles supplied by Rocla are a minimum maintenance product. However, in the event of any
physical damage to a pole of a minor nature such as chipping, structural grade epoxy should be used for
the repair.

• Prepare the area to be repaired by blowing out any loose material that may be present.

• Mix up a small amount of Epoxy to the manufacturers specifications. Pack the Epoxy into the area
being repaired using a small tool. Ensure the small tool is clean so it will be capable to trowel off
the repair as smooth as possible.

• Work the Epoxy into the repair then trowel off as flush as possible to the surface of the pole.
Gently rub the edges of the repair with a slightly dampened rubber sponge as this will help bring
the repair edges flush with the surrounding surface.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 23 of 25
• Wipe the area around the repair with a dry cloth to remove any excess Epoxy that may have
gathered whilst rubbing with the rubber sponge.

• To finish the repair, sieve a liberal amount of dry cement over the Epoxy and leave for a minimum
of 24 hours.

In this 24 hour period, the repair area must not be effected by any moisture.

8. Lifting and Handling

All pole sections are to be stored or placed on the ground using two support bearers. The supports should
be located approximately (0.2 x section length) from each end. Timber is the recommended bearer
material. Standard flat bearers are 100 x 100 in cross section.

The top sections of all poles are provided with a lifting hole. The section is lifted via a bar passing through
the lifting hole with chains or slings at each end of the bar. This section is intended to be lifted by itself but
can be fully dressed, provided that the SWL is not exceeded. Refer to drawing 90759A for the various
acceptable bar sizes and SWL combinations.

The lower pole sections are to be lifted at the stud end via ‘special purpose lifting lugs’ with an appropriate
lifting beam OR a ‘special purpose lifting beam’.

Refer to drawing 90753B for ‘SP lifting lug’ details and drawing 90756A for application and use of ‘SP
lifting lugs’. It is important that the lifting ropes, which span between the ‘lifting lugs’ and the lifting beam,
do not splay inwards. This can damage the pole. For the pair of ‘SP lifting lugs’, the maximum SWL = 10
tonnes.

Refer to drawing 90304B for ‘SP lifting beam’ details, which suit joint diameters of 1275, 990, 810 and 630.
Refer to drawing 90757A for ‘SP2 lifting beam’ details, which suit joint diameters of 1140, 765, and 585.
Refer to drawing 90319B for application and use of these ‘SP lifting beams’. For each `SP lifting beam’, the
maximum SWL = 18 tonnes.

If the ‘SP lifting lugs’ are used, it is suggested that the associated lifting beam have rope connections at
1200 centres to ensure that the ropes splay outwards.
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 24 of 25

Appendix A – Drawing List

Drawing No. Description
90155D Standard Communication Poles LT-A Range (10m to 30m)
90156D Standard Communication Poles LT-B Range (12m to 30m)
91642A Standard Communication Poles LT-C Range (35m)
90702D Standard Communication Poles SR2 Range (15m to 40m)
90703D Standard Communication Poles SR3 Range (15m to 40m)
90672C Standard Communication Poles SR4 Range (15m to 50m)
90945B Standard Communication Poles SR5 Range (19m to 50m)
90979A Extendable Communication Poles EX2 (15m to 35m)
90980A Extendable Communication Poles EX3 (15m to 35m)
90981A Extendable Communication Poles EX4 (14m to 50m)
90982A Extendable Communication Poles EX5 (14.5m to 50m)
89228C Lug Assembly details for Duraspun® Jointed Poles
8383B Jointing Spanner for Lug Type Joints
8384E Joint Instructions for Duraspun® Lug Jointed Poles
90948B High Strength Joint Plates
91086A Jointing Spanner for High Strength Pole Joints
90759A Pole Lifting and Handling
90757A Lifting Beam for 1140, 765 and 585 diameter tip ends
90304B Lifting Beam for 1275, 990 , 810 and 630 diameter tip ends
90319B Application and use of Lifting Beam
90753B SP Lifting Lug Fabrication Details
90756A Application and use of Lifting Lugs
89104B General Details for Pole Direct Embedded Footings
90949A General Details for Collar / Embedded Footings
91404A Concrete Pad-Mounted Pole Assembly Details
91112A Lad-Saf General Arrangement
90983A 'F3' and 'F5' Foundations
90779A Tip Ferrule Orientation Details
 RocPole™ User Guide Version 4.0
Page 25 of 25

Appendix B - Drawings for Historical purposes (Superseded Drawings)

Drawing No. Description
89333 G Sh.1 of 2 SR1 General Assembly Antenna Poles
89333 D Sh.2 of 2 SR2 General Assembly Antenna Poles
89602 B SR2-H30-J & SR2-H20-J General Assembly
90152 B SR3 General Assembly Antenna Poles – Includes SR3-H35