Light poles are essential infrastructure found in virtually every outdoor lighting application. These tall, slender structures typically range from 20 to 40 feet in height and allow lighting fixtures to be mounted at optimal heights to illuminate wide areas effectively. They provide critical lighting solutions for parking lots, highways, residential streets, and pathways.
While light poles may appear simple in design, they incorporate multiple engineered components that ensure functionality, safety, and longevity. This guide covers the essential components and considerations for LED parking lot lights, LED highway lights, and LED street light applications.
Light Pole Materials
Five primary materials are used in light pole construction, each with distinct advantages and limitations:
Wood Poles
- Cost-effective and readily available option
- Lightweight construction simplifies installation
- Non-conductive material provides electrical safety
- Limited lifespan due to decay, fire susceptibility, and pest issues
Concrete Poles
- High strength with excellent wind, rot, and fire resistance
- Can be manufactured locally to reduce costs
- Extremely heavy, requiring specialized handling equipment
- Limited flexibility in design modifications
Steel Poles
- Superior strength and durability for demanding applications
- Excellent wind resistance and multi-fixture support capability
- Electrically conductive – requires proper grounding
- Susceptible to corrosion without proper coating systems
Aluminum Poles
- Lightweight construction with a high strength-to-weight ratio
- Natural corrosion resistance is ideal for coastal environments
- Typical service life of 50+ years with minimal maintenance
- Higher initial cost and limited fire resistance
Fiberglass Poles
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Non-conductive with excellent corrosion resistance
- Service life typically ranges from 20 to 30 years
- UV resistance varies by manufacturer and coating system
Light Pole Configurations
Square vs. Round Poles
Light poles are manufactured in two primary cross-sectional shapes. Square poles feature four-sided construction with sharp corners, while round poles use cylindrical designs. Round poles are typically tapered, with the largest diameter at the base tapering to a smaller diameter at the top for optimal wind resistance and aesthetic appeal.
Installation Methods
Anchor-based poles mount to engineered concrete foundations using anchor bolts, nuts, and washers. This method allows for easier maintenance and replacement.
Direct burial poles (embedded poles) are installed by setting the pole shaft directly into an excavated foundation. Installation typically requires burying 10% of the pole length plus 2 feet for adequate stability.
Essential Light Pole Components
Access and Maintenance Components
Hand-hole cover plates provide removable access points for electrical maintenance and wiring modifications.
Base covers and plates enclose anchor bolts and provide weather protection. Base plates distribute loads to the concrete foundation.
Mounting Hardware
Tenons are cylindrical mounting modules attached to the pole top. Standard tenons are 2? inches in diameter, with 3-inch and 4-inch options available for larger fixtures. Tenons accept various bracket styles, including bullhorn and spoke configurations. Retrofit adaptors are available for poles without integrated tenons.
Pole caps provide weather protection when the pole top is not used for fixture mounting.
Foundation Hardware
Anchor bolts and washers secure anchor-based poles to foundations. Typical specifications include:
- 20-foot poles: ¾-inch diameter bolts, 17 inches long with 3-inch J-hooks
- 30-40 foot poles: 1-inch diameter bolts, 36 inches long
Important: Anchor bolt specifications vary based on pole height, wind loads, soil conditions, and fixture loads. All installations require engineering review and must comply with local building codes.
Specialty Components
Vibration dampers reduce harmonic oscillation and are recommended for poles supporting security cameras or sensitive equipment.
Side brackets enable additional fixtures for accent lighting or building facade illumination.
Electrical outlets provide convenient power access for temporary lighting or maintenance equipment.
Banner brackets accommodate advertising displays and event signage.
PVC conduit protects internal electrical wiring from moisture and mechanical damage.
Professional Installation Requirements
Safety Notice: Light pole installation involves electrical work and structural foundations that require licensed professionals. All installations must comply with local electrical codes, building codes, and engineering requirements.
Proper pole selection depends on multiple factors, including wind load calculations, soil bearing capacity, fixture loads, and local environmental conditions. Consult with qualified engineers and refer to manufacturer specifications for all technical requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding light pole components is essential for selecting the right solution for your outdoor lighting project. Each component plays a critical role in the system’s performance, safety, and longevity. For detailed specifications and installation guidance, explore our comprehensive selection of light poles and street lighting pole solutions.
About The Author
Neil Peterson is Chief Executive Officer at LED Lighting Supply. He has been active in the LED industry for over 10 years and is responsible for product planning and management as well as revenue and operations at LED Lighting Supply. Much of Neil’s time is focused on working with customers on large commercial and industrial lighting requirements. When not working, he enjoys family time, camping, fishing, and sports.
