A Full-Scale Experimental Investigation of Utility Poles Made of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer

Abstract

Utility poles made of glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) are becoming increasingly common in European countries. Therefore, it is necessary to accurately examine their structural properties to ensure the integrity and safety of the poles. The purpose of this article is to compare the bending resistance of GFRP composite lighting columns obtained using European standard procedures with full-scale experimental tests. Several composite lighting columns were tested as part of the research study, and coupon tests were performed to assess the material properties required to calculate their bending resistance according to European Standard (EN) 40-3-3. The results obtained differed significantly. Furthermore, it was observed that the current standard rules for obtaining the resistance of GFRP poles based on the limit state method show a higher load capacity of the column in comparison to the capacity obtained from the tests.