TIA/EIA

(DRAFT)

Structural (Draft) for Steel Gin Poles Used for the

Installation of Antenna Towers and Antenna
Supporting Structures

TIA/EIA-PN-4860-Gin Poles

Telecommunications Industry Association

Electronic Industries Association
TR14.7 Sub-committee
Safety Facilities Task Group
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STRUCTURAL STANDARDS FOR STEEL GIN POLES USED FOR THE

INSTALLATION OF ANTENNA TOWERS AND ANTENNA SUPPORTING
STRUCTURES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE NUMBER

OBJECTIVE 4

SCOPE 4

1.0 GENERAL
1.1 Definitions 5
1.2 Reference Standards 7

2.0 GIN POLE OPERATION AND USE

2.1
2.2 Scope
Gin Pole 8
8

3.0 LOADS
3.1 Scope 9
3.2 Classification of Gin Poles 9
3.3 Combination of Loads 9

4.0 ANALYSIS
4.1 Scope 12
4.2 Analysis Models 12

5.0 DESIGN
5.1 Scope Method 13
13
5.2 Design
5.3 Effective Slenderness Ratios for Compression Members 13
5.4 Connections 14

6.0 RIGGING EQUIPMENT

6.1 Scope 16
6.2 Rigging Equipment Strength Requirements 16
6.3 Daily Inspection 17
6.4 Wire Rope Requirements 17
6.5 Wire Rope End Connections 17
6.6 Chains 17
6.7 Hooks and Shackles 17
6.8 Rooster Head 17

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7.0 Load Chart

7.1 Scope 18
7.2 Standard Gin Pole Chart 18
7.3 Special Engineered Lift 19

8.0 MANUFACTURING
8.1 Scope 20
8.2 Steel 20
8.3 Test Reports 20
8.4 Fabrication 20
8.5 Straightness 20
8.6 Finish 20
8.7 Identification 20

9.0 Inspection and Repair

9.1 Field Tolerances 21
9.2 General Items for Gin Pole Inspection 21
9.3 Minimum Inspection Frequency 21

10.0 Repair and Modification 21

11.0 Examples and Figures

Figures 2-1 and 2-2 22

Figures 2-3 and 2-4 23

Figure 3-1 24

Figure 3-2 25

Figures 7-1 and 7-2 26

ANNEX A Procurement and User Guidelines 27

ANNEX B Guide for Engineering Design

1.0 Scope 28
2.0 Gin Pole Capacity 28
3.0 Gin Pole Overall Effective Length Factor “K” 31
4.0 Gin Pole Lift Considerations 33
Chart B-1 34

ANNEX C Evaluation of Existing Poles

1.0 Scope 35
2.0 Data for Engineering Evaluation and File Documentation 35
3.0 Written Inspection Report for gin Pole 38
4.0 Independent Inspection by a Qualified Firm 38

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OBJECTIVE

The objective of this standard is to provide minimum criteria for design and
use of steel gin poles for installation of antennas, antenna towers and
antenna supporting structures. The information contained in this standard
was obtained from sources as referenced and noted herein and represents
the accepted industry practices for minimum standards for the design of
steel gin poles used for the installation of antennas and antenna supporting
structures.

While this standard is believed to be accurate, a licensed professional

engineer should not rely upon this information for any specific application
without competent professional examination and verification of its accuracy,
suitability, and applicability. This standard is not intended to cover all
conditions, which could exist in a particular situation. This standard covers
the use of a cantilever gin pole in the vertical or near vertical position only.

SCOPE

This standard describes the requirements for design of steel gin poles that
are used for the installation of antennas, towers and antenna supporting
structures.

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1.0 GENERAL

1.1 Definitions:

ASD: (Allowable Stress Design) is a method of analysis in which the design strength of
the structure is equivalent to its ultimate strength divided by a specified factor of safety.

Basket Slings: are slings attached to the bottom of the gin pole, providing vertical
support.

Bridle: the upper most support point of the gin pole that attaches to the structure. This
can also be referenced as the collar.

Bridle Support: the upper support that restricts the gin pole from moving in any
horizontal direction.

Cantilever: the projection of the gin pole above the bridle.

Competent Person: one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards,
which are hazardous, or dangerous to employees and who has the authorization to take
prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

Engineered Lift: a lift outside the limits specified by a specific load chart prepared by
an engineer.

Free Body Diagram: (FBD) a representation of an object in equilibrium, showing

external forces, moments and support reactions.

Gin Pole: a device unique to the telecommunications industry used to raise successive
sections of tower steel, antennas or equipment into position. This temporary device
allows headroom above the highest fixed point of the tower or structure.

Gross Load: the total load to be lifted. This includes the weight ofthe lifted object,
headache ball, the load line, tag line, and any other attachments.

Headache Ball: a counterweight attached to the end of the load line to return the load
line to the ground.

Impact Load: a dynamic condition to account for a momentary vertical acceleration or

braking of the load.

Jump Line: a wire rope used to raise and lower the gin pole.

Load Chart: a chart used to determine the lifting capacities of the gin pole under
specified parameters.

Load Line: a wire rope used to raise and lower the load.

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LRFD: (Load & Resistance Factor Design) is a method of analysis in which the limit
state condition of the structure is evaluated with a load increased above the actual load
used. This increased load is then compared to the strength of the structure.

Mid-Level Support: the support between the bridle and the basket that restricts the
pole from movement in all horizontal directions.

Panel Connection Point: the point where the horizontal and diagonal bracing members
intersect the vertical leg member of a gin pole or tower structure.

Qualified: means the pole meets the parameters of this standard and/or is used within
the guidelines and specifications put forth in this standard.

Qualified Person: a person who, by possession of a recognized degree or certificate of

professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, has
successfully demonstrated his/her ability to solve and resolve problems related to the
subject matter and work.

Reeving: is the act or method of passing a wire rope through the pole, rooster head and
any other additional sheaves or pulleys.

Rigging: are the items used to support or secure the gin pole and to lift or control the
load.

Rooster Head: is a sheave assembly located at the top of the gin pole, which allows
the load line to pass through it and rotate 360 degrees.

Shall: indicates a mandatory practice.

Should: indicates an advisory practice.

Slings: a looped wire rope, strap or chain for supporting, cradling or lifting an object.

Tag Line: a method of applying a force to control a load.

Track: a device or system used to guide and support some gin poles during the raising
and lowering of the gin pole.

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2.2.5 Jump Line

The jump line is used to reposition the gin pole by raising and lowering the gin pole to
the desired location. The jump line leaves the hoist on the ground, goes through a
block at the base of the tower, up through a block on the tower, then through a series of
blocks or directly to a specific location on the gin pole.

There shall be a mechanism in place to prevent the pole from tipping during the jumping
process.

2.2.6 Tag Line

Tag lines are used to help control the load during the lifting process. Two common
methods of tagging are the straight tag and the trolley tag. These methods are shown
on Fig. 2-3. A straight tag is attached directly to the load. A trolley tag may be attached
to the gin pole. The trolley tag connection point shall be belowthe rooster head.

2.2.7 Tower Attachment

Gin pole attachment to the tower is typically with bridle and basket slings as shown in
(Fig. 2-4). They shall be positioned to minimize loading forcesproduced on the tower
members to which they are attached. Bridle and basket slings shall be attached at
tower panel points and gin pole panel points.

3.0 LOADS

3.1 Scope
This section provides minimum load requirements for gin pole structures.

3.2 Classification of Gin Poles

The class of the gin pole is based on its gross load capacity determined by using the
following parameters:
1. cantilever height of 25 feet,
2. a 3 degree load line angle,
3. a tag line angle of 60 degrees,
4. pole attached at bridle and basket only,
5. kL3 / EI = 100 (see annex B),
6. without internal horizontal load linerestraint between the basketand bridle points
(see annex B).

Class A 0 < 2,000-pound gross load

Class B 2,000 to 5,000-pound gross load
Class C over 5,000-pound gross load

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3.3 Combination of Loads

3.3.1 Symbols
D= dead load (weight) of gin pole and fixed rigging attachments.
L= live load is the gross load.
W= wind force applied to the cantilever portion of the gin pole.
Im = Impact loading.
FS = factor of safety.

3.3.2 Design Loading Requirements

It is the intent of this standard to specify an impact factor for both LRFD and ASD
design. These impact factors are increased for smaller gin poles, typically used on
smaller structures, to help account for unpredictable deflection, which may occur in the
structure during a lift.

3.3.2.1 Impact Factors (Im)

The following impact factors shall be used with either design method.
1. Class A 1.45
2. Class B 1.35
3. Class C 1.25

3.3.2.2 LRFD Design

Gin pole structures shall be designed so that their design strength equals or exceeds
the load effects of the factored loads in the following limit state combination.

For LRFD the following load combinations shall be used:

1.3D + 1.6(L x Im) +1.6W

Gin poles shall be analyzed with the following load case to determine anticipated
deflections. (1.0D + 1.0L)

The resistance factors φ (PHI) for the strength of the gin pole components shall be in
accordance with the AISC LRFD manual.

3.3.2.3 ASD Design

As an alternative to LRFD design, ASD design may be used with the following load
combinations:

1.0D+1.0(L x Im)+1.0W

3.3.2.4. Service Load Conditions

For the purposes of calculating deflections and factor of safety on rigging, the following
load combinations shall be used.

1.0D+1.0L

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3.3.3 Loads, Forces and Reactions for Gin Pole Lifts

The free body diagrams in Figures 3-1 and 3-2 describe the typical loading associated
with a gin pole in the vertical and near vertical positions. Figure 3-1 describes a straight
tag arrangement and Figure 3-2a trolley tag arrangement. These figures show the pick
load, forces and distances associated with load and tag lines, and reactions at tower
and tag connection locations. Symbols and notations are noted in the nomenclature
portions of the diagrams.

3.3.4 Wind Loading

Gin poles shall be designed with a minimum 30-mph effective wind speed applied to the
cantilever portion while in theloaded condition. The direction of the wind force shall be
the direction which applies maximum forces and reactions. The wind force calculated
shall be for a constant 30 mph effective wind speed from the following equation:
W = .00256 x Kz x Gh x V2 x (Cf x Ae) (lbs)
W = .613 x Kz x Gh x V2 x (Cf x Ae) (N/(m2))

where:
Kz = 1.0 (velocity pressure coefficient)
Gh = 1.0 (gust effect factor)
V = 30 (effective wind speed - mph )
Cf = force coefficient for the gin pole structure
Ae = effective projected area of the gin pole structure – sq. ft.

Cf and Ae shall be calculated in accordance with the TIA/EIA-222-F-1996 standard, if

appurtenances are attached to the gin pole their shape factor times their associated
wind area shall be added to the Cf x Ae portion of the above equations.

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7.3 Special Engineered Lift

It is the intent of this standard for lifts to be within the ratings allowed in the “Load Chart”
as defined by this standard. Any lift or lifting to be allowed on a special basis, which is
not specified in standard gin pole load charts shall only be allowed at the direction of a
qualified engineer. The following is a list of conditions in which the engineer may allow
lifts within the parameters of a “Special Engineered Lift” condition:

a. Lifts which allow an increased gin pole capacity bycalculating load line angles
(theta “?”) that are less than 3 degrees shall be considered special. In general
this 3-degree load line angle considers a rooster head sheave which allows the
load line, when vertical, to clear the gin pole sides by only a few inches. In the
case of extended rooster heads, which extend the load line several inches out
from the gin pole edge, the engineer shall specify the minimum allowable load
line angle to be used in standard gin pole charts. If capacities are increased
above these charted values by use of lower load line angles, “Special
Engineered Lift” procedures shall apply.

b. Lifts, which can qualify for higher gin pole capacities than charted values due
to, increased stiffness of structures in which the gin pole is mounted to, and/or
additional gin pole supports to the structure, such as proper mid-level supports
provided between the bridle and basket attachments locations.

c. Lifts, which can qualify for higher gin pole capacities thancharted values due
to horizontally restraining of the load line as it passes from the rooster down
through the pole.

d. Other arrangements of additional support for the gin pole that will allow
improved lifting capacities above charted values can constitute a “Special
Engineered Lift” condition. All applicable strength factors, impact factors and
factors of safety as detailed in this standard must be met in order to allow
improved lifting capacities. The complete procedure shall be approved by a
qualified engineer with specific instructions provided to the user.

7.3.1 Field Monitoring and Measuring Requirements

Special monitoring and measuring conditions, as specified by the engineer, shall be
provided and used in the field during all “Special Engineered Lifts”.

Examples of items to consider for field monitoring during special engineering lifts are;
monitoring of gin pole support conditions, lifted weights, load line and tag line forces,
load line and tag line angles (usually converted to allowable and controllable distances
of movement from the no load condition), wind conditions, gin pole deflections and
mounting structure deflections

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8.0 MANUFACTURING

8.1 Scope
This section outlines the structural steel material requirements, fabrication
specifications, and corrosion control applicable for gin pole structures.

8.2 Steel
Structural steels applicable for gin poles shall conform to one of the steel materials
listed in Table 1-1 of AISC-LRFD-95, or in Table 1-1 of AISC Hollow Structural Sections
Connections Manual- 1997 unless otherwise specified by the engineer.

8.3 Test Reports

Certified mill test reports conforming to ASTM A6 or A568, as applicable, shall be
provided to the purchaser to verify steel used in construction of new gin poles.

8.4 Fabrication
Fabrication shall be in accordance with AISC-LRFD-95 Chapter M and welding shall
conform to fabrication procedures of the “American Welding Society Structural Welding
Code Steel” AWS D1.1-2000.

8.5 Straightness
The gin pole shall be manufactured within straightness requirements specified.
Straightness requirements shall be met for the individual members of the pole as well as
for the overall assembled length. The overall assembled length, and/or individual
member lengths, shall not deviate from straightness by more than one part in five
hundred (1/500), but not more stringent than 1/16”(1.5mm) over the members length.

8.6 Finish
Gin poles that are not galvanized should be painted with a matte finish to prevent
corrosion.

Galvanized gin poles shall be hot dipped galvanized in accordance with ASTM 123
unless otherwise specified by an engineer.

8.7 Identification
Markings for Gin Poles shall be as follows:
1. Each gin pole shall be permanently marked with an identification number
that references a specific load chart,
2. For proper assembly, each section of the gin pole shall be marked in a
specified sequence.

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9.0 INSPECTION

9.1 Field Tolerances

The designer/engineer specified straightness tolerances shall be used for inspection.

9.2 General Items for Gin Pole Inspection

A detailed visual inspection by a competent person shall be completed covering at a
minimum the following items:
a) Kinked, deformed or bent structural members.
b) Welds shall be visually inspected for quality, deformation, cracks andrust.
c) Check members for rust or pitting or loss of cross sectional area.
d) Check sling attachment points for distortion, wear, cracksand rust.
e) Ensure that proper splice bolts are utilized and associated hardware is in
good condition. When re-using bolts, confirm that the bolts are in good
condition as specified by this standard.
f) Check rooster head side plates for distortion or damage, and bearings for
proper lubrication and movement.
g) Ensure proper section order and placement.
h) Inspect all attachment hardware, including rigging.

9.3 Minimum Inspection Frequency

Minimum inspection criteria for gin poles shall include the following:
a) A detailed written inspection annually, orwithin one year prior to being placed in
service, shall be preformed and kept on file.
b) A general visual inspection during assembly prior to use on a specific project
shall be made.
c) After any abnormal occurrences a complete and thorough inspection shall be
made.

10.0 Repair and Modification

The modification or repairs of a gin pole shall be made with like or similar materials to
meet or exceed the srcinal specifications.

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2.0.4 A description of the attachment plates, withtheir location in reference to

the overall pole length, along with their width, length and thickness should
be provided. This information is necessary todescribe how the gin pole
will be attached to a supporting structure.
2.0.5 If the gin pole has a track, similar sketches and detailsfor the track and its
proposed rigging arrangement should be provided as described above for
the gin pole.
2.0.6 Section connections shouldbe shown in detail with size and grade of
bolts, bolt hole diameters, end and edge distances, bolt spacing, steel
thickness and grade of material being bolted together.
2.0.7 Full details of the rooster head should be provided giving the grade of
steel and weld descriptions for the side plates, base flange and reinforcing
gussets. A sketch showing pertinent details should be provided. Bolted
connection details including the grade of bolts should be provided.
2.0.8 Design details for sheaves and bearings should be provided, including the
manufacturer’s model and serial numbers, along with safe working load
capacities if available.
2.0.9 Sketches C-1 and C-2 are example forms that could be used to
accumulate data for a gin pole analysis.

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Evaluation of a Triangular Pole

Evaluation of a Square Pole

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3.0 Written Inspection Report for Gin Pole:

A gin pole inspection report covering the items described in Section 9.0 of this standard
should be included with the design data. The records of the inspected items should be
provided to the engineer, including details of any discrepancies found. Pictures of gin
pole sections along with specific items in question should be submitted with this report.

4.0 Independent Inspection By a Qualified Firm:

It is recommended to have an existing gin pole inspected by an independent non-
destructive inspection firm. Below is a list of items to consider for this type of
inspection:

4.0.1 A visual inspection should be completed by a competent welding

inspector. If improper welds or cracks are found magnetic particle testing,
dye penetrant testing or ultrasonic testing of welds may be necessary for
further verification.
4.0.2 If steel chemistry is in question, a spectrometer can be used to determine
basic compounds in the steel. Spark testing can be used to get an
estimate of carbon percentages in the steel. If directed by the testing
professionals and approved by the engineer, removal of specific coupons
for more exact material verification can be arranged.
4.0.3 Hardness testing of the welds, their heat affected zones, and the base
metal is recommended to verify that unusual and/or undesirable conditions
are not present.

The inspection and testing needs will be different for each individual gin pole. The
above documentation is not intended to be an exhaustive list of items to be covered and
is only a guideline. The type of testing necessary should be determined anddirected by
the professional engineer completing the analysis.

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