New Methodology for the Assessment of Decayed Utility Wood Poles Using Ultrasonic Testing
Author: Fernando J. Tallavó
Publisher:
Published: 2009
Total Pages: 244
ISBN-13: 9780494561621
DOWNLOAD EBOOKWood is one of the oldest and most common material used in construction. Since the beginning of the electrification in Canada in late 19th-century, wood poles have been widely used to provide structural support to electric transmission and distribution lines. For example, electrical network in Ontario has over 2 millions distribution poles across the province. Wood poles are typically exposed to severe environmental conditions, which cause deterioration due to wood rotting, insect attack, and weathering. The wood deterioration resulting in loss of strength can compromise the structural integrity of poles. Typical life expectancy of wood varies from 35 to 50 years depending on the environmental condition and type of wood. Electrical distribution infrastructure in Canada is aging. For example, the average age of in-service wood poles in Ontario is estimated to be 29 years with a standard deviation of 15 years. About 300,000 wood poles have been in-service for more than 45 years, which are rapidly reaching to end of expected service life. Different types of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods have been historically used for the condition assessment of wood poles. However, current methods are based on simple concepts that do not consider the variations of wave velocity and wave attenuation in an orthotropic material. The goal of this research investigation is to develop an advanced and reliable NDT technique for in-situ inspection and assessment of wood poles in order to remove unsafe poles from service, extend the service life of sound poles, and support optimum replacement strategies for the renewal of wood pole infrastructure. The thesis presents a new methodology for condition assessment of wood poles using ultrasonic testing based on theoretical, numerical, and experimental studies. The research covers areas such as signal processing, dynamic characterization, statistical reliability analysis, numerical simulations, and laboratory testing.
