Tests of wood poles are made to determine:

Data for use in establishing allowable stresses,

Data upon which to base economical pole line design,

Data on the strength properties of different species in pole sizes,

Data as to the influence of defects on the strength properties of poles,

Data as to the effect of preservatives and preservative treatments on the strength properties of poles, and

Data for correlating the strength properties of full-size poles with those of small clear specimens of the same species.

Treating procedures to which poles have been subjected may introduce variables that prohibit direct comparisons between different groups of data. Complete information on the treating techniques shall form a part of the test records.

1.1 These test methods cover determination of the bending strength and stiffness of wood poles. Knowledge of these properties is used in providing for reliable and economical design with poles of different species, size, or grade.

1.2 Two test methods are included: the cantilever test method and the machine test method.

1.3 Provision is also made for extracting small clear specimens from the butt section and determining static bending and compression parallel to grain strength values in accordance with Test Methods D143.

1.4 The procedures specified in these test methods apply to tests of either treated or untreated material.

1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. SI values are given in parentheses and are provided for information only.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.