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

Experimental Studies and Numerical Simulations of FRP Poles Failure in the Area of Inspection Hole

Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) utility poles are becoming more widespread in European countries. To ensure the integrity and safety of poles, it is necessary to carefully examine their structural features. The purpose of this paper is to present the numerical model of a column made with the engineering simulation software ANSYS and to compare the experimentally determined values of the stresses that lead to column failure close to the inspection hole with the results obtained using the numerical model. The critical buckling and failure loads for GFRP poles, as well as the associated modes of failure, were correctly predicted by the finite element method used in this study. Failure occurred in the middle of the inspection hole's longer edge at a stress level of 220-250 MPa. A comparison of the stress using the ANSYS simulation software that led to the destruction of the column with those measured experimentally using strain gauges revealed a good agreement between their values.

FRP Poles: A State-of-the-Art-Review of Manufacturing, Testing, and Modeling

Fiber-reinforced polymers poles were on the increase because they were lightweight, have high strength-to-weight ratios, provide corrosion resistance, can be customized to meet strength and deflection requirements, and have a low life-cycle cost of construction and maintenance. This research presents a comprehensive review of all significant research and existing case studies to review the present knowledge concerning fiber-reinforced polymers poles. The main summary covers 70 works focusing on fiber poles to summarize recent activities on selected relevant topics and highlight possible future implementations. In this context, this study discusses fiber-reinforced polymers poles in six aspects: (i) introduction; (ii) methodology; (iii) Materials properties of FRP poles; (iv) manufacturing techniques of FRP poles; (v) testing of FRP poles (static and dynamic flexure test as cantilever beam); (vi) modeling of FRP poles. Therefore, this critical review will demonstrate an overview of FRP Poles manufacturing techniques (Pultrusion, filament winding, centrifugal process, and hand lay-up) and which Pultrusion technique is the best suited for FRP Poles. Static modeling was the most used of other techniques.