Attaching Fiber?

We'll make Pole Loading Analysis

Pole loading analysis is done in Osmose O-Calc Pro v7.00. Among similar software, O-Calc Pro is considered the most powerful and fast, producing comprehensive analysis reports.

What is Pole Loading Analysis

The pole visuals

The pole reports

REPORTS
The final result of pole loading analysis is the report file for each and every pole, which shows lateral and vertical pole loading in % compared to maximum allowable loading. Pole loading is assumed as PASSED if the loading is within 85% of allowable (in most cases) according to Table 261-1 of NESC 2017.

Reports are handy in reviewing correctness of such things as anchor placement, downguys tension, braces load, conductor and communication cables tension, etc. Reports show load share between attachers.

PDF / report example 1
PDF / report example 2
PDF / report example 3

What to start from?

An initial survey is necessary to gather all possible field data concerning poles one needs to attach to. It can be made and presented in different ways, but at least it should bear the names of poles, their height and class. The height of attachment of existing conductors and cables should be collected, as well as existing anchor types and their lead lengths. The type of existing conductors should be requested from your utility company. Field photos should be provided. The appearance of the collected field data does not really matter:

Can be an utility company GIS map, which contains pole data, information concerning framing, equipment, conductor types, etc.

All pole data can be collected in an excel or any other similar file type.

A handwritten survey will also work.

Pole field survey file example: XLS

What you get

What you get is a complete package of stuff to get permission to attach from your utility company, including:

Line design file containing all poles in line (PPLLD)
Separate pole design files for every pole (PPLX)
Analysis reports (PDF)
Pole map / Plan view drawing
Spreadsheet with pole data, including name, type, coords, make ready requirements, pole loading %, etc.

Alongside with help sending it to your utility company, negotiating and defending the solutions.

FAQ

How much does it cost?
Pole loading analysis starts from $40/pole and depends on provided data completeness, complexity of work, amount, etc.

How long does it take?
Usually ~2 weeks per 100 poles

Where can I attach?
Communication cables are usually allowed to be attached in communication zone 18′ – 23′.
Communication cables must have 40′ separation from supply conductors per Rule 235 Table 235-5 NESC 2017.

What ground clearances should be maintained?
Check NESC 2017 cheat sheet for clearances.

How to determine framing?
Check US DoA RUS BULLETIN 1728F-804 for specifications for 12.47/7.2 kV line construction

What is the max span of my fiber cable?
A very rough estimation (in meters) can be made as Lmax = (T+1)*10, where T is the tensile strengh of your cable (in kN).
To get the accurate numbers follow the standard rules of cable state calculation.

Why choose PoleFiber

Happy clients

0 +

Projects done

0 +

Poles engineered

0 +

Miles of fiber attached

0 +

Client testimonials

"We've worked with several pole engineering consultants, but none have matched the precision and responsiveness of PoleFiber.
Highly recommend for any utility looking to streamline pole modeling."

Brandon Keune

"PoleFiber's expertise helped us confidently plan a major fiber expansion project. The engineering was thorough, and the turnaround time exceeded expectations. We especially appreciated their ability to handle complex multi-party joint-use scenarios."

Tyler Kamits

"Reliable and detail-driven. We relied on their team to validate hundreds of poles across rural areas. Their pole engineering services helped us resolve several longstanding overloading issues."

Dave Sanchez

Not convinced?

We are so self-confident that sometimes we even help PUCs resolve design issues with their own attachers.