© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.

 Foreword
The sixth edition of Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic
Signals supersedes the fifth edition and its 2010 and 2011 interims. It includes changes approved by the Highways
Subcommittee on Bridges and Structures in 2012.

Design guidelines for fatigue-critical multisided tubular sections are included in Section 5, “Steel Design.” Additional
guidance is provided on longitudinal seam welds, tube-to-transverse plate connection welds, anchor bolt installation, and
stiffened connections. New figures for fillet-welded gusseted box connections and ring-stiffened box connections are
provided as commentary. Section 5 also includes updates to hand-hole welds, weld inspection, and provides new figures
for holes and cutouts.

The scope of Section 11, “Fatigue Design,” is expanded to allow design of support structures using nominal stress-
based classifications of typical connection details, or using the alternate local stress-based and/or experiment-based
methodologies presented in Appendix D. New tables are provided for determining the fatigue resistance of typical
connection details in support structures for finite and infinite life designs. The scope of Section 11 is expanded to include
separate provisions for high-mast lighting towers, including a combined wind load for a simplified approach to derive
fatigue damage from all the load effects due to natural wind.

The Specifications are based on the allowable stress design methodology and are intended to address the usual
structural supports. Requirements more stringent than those in the Specifications may be appropriate for atypical structural
supports. The commentary is intended to provide background on some of the considerations contained in the
Specifications; however it does not provide a complete historical background, nor detailed discussions of the associated
research studies. The Specifications and accompanying commentary do not replace sound engineering knowledge and
judgment.

AASHTO Highways Subcommittee on Bridges and Structures

v
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 Preface
The sixth edition of Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic
Signals supersedes the fifth edition and its 2010 and 2011 interims. It includes changes approved by the Highways
Subcommittee on Bridges and Structures in 2012.

AASHTO Publications Staff

vi

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 ABBREVIATED TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................. 1-i

SECTION 2: GENERAL FEATURES OF DESIGN ................................................................................................. 2-i

SECTION 3: LOADS ................................................................................................................................................. 3-i

SECTION 4: ANALYSIS AND DESIGN: GENERAL CONSIDERATION ............................................................ 4-i

SECTION 5: STEEL DESIGN ................................................................................................................................... 5-i

SECTION 6: ALUMINUM DESIGN ......................................................................................................................... 6-i

SECTION 7: PRESTRESSED CONCRETE DESIGN .............................................................................................. 7-i

SECTION 8: FIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITE DESIGN .................................................................................. 8-i

SECTION 9: WOOD DESIGN ................................................................................................................................... 9-i

SECTION 10: SERVICEABILITY REQUIREMENTS........................................................................................... 10-i

SECTION 11: FATIQUE DESIGN .......................................................................................................................... 11-i

SECTION 12: BREAKAWAY SUPPORTS ............................................................................................................ 12-i

SECTION 13: FOUNDATION DESIGN ................................................................................................................. 13-i

APPENDIX A: ANALYSIS OF SPAN-WIRE STRUCTURES ............................................................................... A-i

APPENDIX B: DESIGN AIDS ................................................................................................................................. B-i

APPENDIX C: ALTERNATIVE METHOD FOR WIND PRESSURES ................................................................. C-i

APPENDIX D: ALTERNATIVE METHODS FOR FATIQUE DESIGN ................................................................ D-i

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 SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 1
1.1—SCOPE ..........................................................................................................................................................................1-1

1.2—DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................................................................1-1

1.3—APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................1-2

1.4—TYPES OF STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS ...................................................................................................................1-2

1.4.1—Sign .....................................................................................................................................................................1-2
1.4.2—Luminaire ...........................................................................................................................................................1-3
1.4.3—Traffic Signal......................................................................................................................................................1-5
1.4.4—Combination Structures .....................................................................................................................................1-6

1.5—REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................................................1-6

1-i
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 SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1—SCOPE C1.1

The provisions of these Standard Specifications for These Specifications are the result of National
Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Project
Traffic Signals, hereinafter referred to as the Specifications, 17-10 and the corresponding NCHRP Report 411. At the
are applicable to the structural design of supports for discretion of the Owner, proprietary solutions may be
highway signs, luminaires, and traffic signals. The types of considered. These solutions may address both new structures
supports covered in these Specifications are discussed in and the repair or rehabilitation of existing structures. Testing
Article 1.4. The Specifications are intended to serve as a of proprietary solutions shall model actual conditions as
standard and guide for the design, fabrication, and erection of closely as possible, and the test methods and results shall be
these types of supports. published. These Specifications are intended to replace the
previous edition, Standard Specifications for Structural
Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signals
(2009).
These Specifications are not intended to supplant
proper training or the exercise of judgment by the designer,
and they include only the minimum requirements necessary
to provide for public safety. The Owner or the designer may
require the design and quality of materials and construction
to be higher than the minimum requirements.
The commentary directs attention to other documents The commentary discusses some provisions of the
that provide suggestions for carrying out the requirements Specifications with emphasis given to the explanation of new
and intent of these Specifications. However, those documents or revised provisions that may be unfamiliar to users of the
and the commentary are not intended to be a part of the Specifications. The commentary is not intended to provide a
Specifications. complete historical background concerning the development
of this and previous Specifications, nor is it intended to
provide a detailed summary of the studies and research data
reviewed in formulating the provisions of the Specifications.
However, references to some of the research data are
provided for those who wish to study the background
material in depth.

1.2—DEFINITIONS

Arm—A cantilevered support, either horizontal or sloped.

Bridge Support—Also known as span-type support; a horizontal or sloped member or truss supported by at least two vertical
supports.

Cantilever—A support, either horizontal or vertical, supported at one end only.

Designer—The person responsible for design of the structural support.

High-Level Luminaire Support—Truss-type or pole-type tower that provides lighting at heights greater than about 17 m
(55 ft), typically using 4 to 12 luminaires.

High-Mast Lighting Tower (HMLT)—Another description for a pole-type high-level luminaire support.

Luminaire—A complete lighting unit consisting of a lamp or lamps together with the parts designed to distribute the light, to
position and protect the lamps, and to connect the lamps to the electric power supply.

Mast Arm—A supporting arm designed to hold a sign, signal head, or luminaire in an approximately horizontal position.

Monotube—A support that is composed of a single tube.

1-1
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 STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS FOR STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS FOR
1-2 HIGHWAY SIGNS, LUMINAIRES, AND TRAFFIC SIGNALS, SIXTH EDITION

Overhead Sign—A sign suspended above the roadway.

Owner—The person or agency having jurisdiction for the design, construction, and maintenance of the structural support.

Pole—A vertical support that is long, relatively slender, and generally rounded or multisided.

Pole Top—A descriptive term indicating that an attachment is mounted at the top of a structural support, usually pertaining to
one luminaire or traffic signal mounted at the top of a pole.

Roadside Sign—A sign mounted beside the roadway on a single support or multiple supports.

Sign—A device conveying a specific message by means of words or symbols, erected for the purpose of regulating, warning,
or guiding traffic.

Span Wire—A steel cable or strand extended between two poles, commonly used as a horizontal support for small signs and
traffic signals.

Structural Support—Support designed to carry the loads induced by attached signs, luminaires, and traffic signals.

Traffic Signal—An electrically operated traffic control device by which traffic is regulated, warned, or directed to take
specific actions.

Truss—A structural support, usually vertical or horizontal, composed of framework that is often arranged in triangles.

1.3—APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS

The following specification documents may be

referenced for additional information on design, materials,
fabrication, and construction:

• Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges,

• AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications,
• Standard Specifications for Transportation Materials
and Methods of Sampling and Testing, and
• Book of ASTM Standards.

1.4—TYPES OF STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS

Structural supports are categorized as follows:

• Sign support structures,

• Luminaire support structures,
• Traffic signal support structures, and
• A combination of these structures.

1.4.1—Sign C1.4.1

Structural supports for signs include both overhead and Typical overhead and roadside sign supports are shown
roadside sign structures that are intended to support highway in Figure C1.4.1-1. Overhead sign structures are generally of
traffic signs and markers. the bridge or cantilever type. It is also common to support
signs on existing grade separation structures that span the
traffic lanes.

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SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION 1-3

Figure C1.4.1-1—Sign Supports

1.4.2—Luminaire C1.4.2

Structural supports for luminaires include typical poles The lighting of modern highways includes the use of
with luminaire arms, typical poles with luminaires mounted typical lighting poles, generally tubular shafts that support
at pole top, and high-level luminaire supports (both truss type one or two luminaires and range in height from about 9 m
and pole type). (30 ft) to 17 m (55 ft). High-level luminaire supports
normally range in heights from about 17 m (55 ft) to 46 m
(150 ft) or more, usually supporting 4 to 12 luminaires; they
are used to illuminate large areas. Typical luminaire supports
and high-level luminaire supports are shown in Figure
C1.4.2-1.

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 STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS FOR STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS FOR
1-4 HIGHWAY SIGNS, LUMINAIRES, AND TRAFFIC SIGNALS, SIXTH EDITION

Figure C1.4.2-1—Luminaire Structural Supports

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SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION 1-5

1.4.3—Traffic Signal C1.4.3

Structural supports for mounting traffic signals include Typical traffic signal supports are shown in
pole top, cantilevered arms, bridge, and span wires. Figure C1.4.3-1.

Figure C1.4.3-1—Traffic Signal Structural Supports

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 STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS FOR STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS FOR
1-6 HIGHWAY SIGNS, LUMINAIRES, AND TRAFFIC SIGNALS, SIXTH EDITION

1.4.4—Combination Structures C1.4.4

Combination structures include structural supports that Generally, combination structures are composed of a
combine any of the functions described in Articles 1.4.1, luminaire support and a traffic signal support. Other
1.4.2, and 1.4.3. structures may combine traffic signal or luminaire supports
with those for utility lines.
1.5—REFERENCES

AASHTO. 2002. AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges, 17th Edition, HB-17. American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials, Washington, DC.

AASHTO. 2009. AASHTO Transportation Glossary, 4th Edition. American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials, Washington, DC.

AASHTO. 2009. Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires and Traffic Signals, Fifth
Edition, with 2010 and 2011 Interims. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Washington, DC.

AASHTO. 2012. AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, Sixth Edition, LRFDUS-6. American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials, Washington, DC.

AASHTO. 2012. Standard Specifications for Transportation Materials and Methods of Sampling and Testing. 32nd Edition,
HM-32. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, Washington, DC.

ASTM. 2012. Book of ASTM Standards. American Society for Testing and Materials, West Conshohocken, PA.

Fouad, F. H., E. A. Calvert, and E. Nunez. 1998. Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signals,
NCHRP Report 411. Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, Washington, DC.

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All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 SECTION 2: GENERAL FEATURES OF DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
2.1—SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................................. 2-1

2.2—DEFINITIONS..................................................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.3—AESTHETICS ..................................................................................................................................................... 2-2

2.4—FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................... 2-2

2.4.1—Lighting Systems ....................................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.4.1.1—Vertical Heights for Luminaire Supports ......................................................................................... 2-2
2.4.2—Structural Supports for Signs and Traffic Signals...................................................................................... 2-3
2.4.2.1—Vertical Clearances .......................................................................................................................... 2-3
2.4.2.2—Size, Height, and Location of Signs................................................................................................. 2-5
2.4.2.3—Illumination and Reflectorization of Signs ...................................................................................... 2-5
2.4.2.4—Variable Message Signs ................................................................................................................... 2-5

2.5—ROADSIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS ................................................................. 2-5

2.5.1—Clear Zone Distance................................................................................................................................... 2-5
2.5.2—Breakaway Supports .................................................................................................................................. 2-6
2.5.2.1—Foundations ..................................................................................................................................... 2-6
2.5.2.2—Impact Height .................................................................................................................................. 2-6
2.5.3—Guardrails and Other Barriers .................................................................................................................... 2-6
2.5.4—Roadside Sign and Luminaire Supports ..................................................................................................... 2-7
2.5.5—Overhead Sign Supports and High-Level Lighting Supports..................................................................... 2-7
2.5.6—Traffic Signal Supports .............................................................................................................................. 2-7
2.5.7—Gores .......................................................................................................................................................... 2-7
2.5.8—Urban Areas ............................................................................................................................................... 2-7
2.5.9—Joint-Use Supports ..................................................................................................................................... 2-8

2.6—CORRELATION OF STRUCTURAL SUPPORT DESIGN WITH ROADWAY AND BRIDGE DESIGN .... 2-8
2.6.1—Signs .......................................................................................................................................................... 2-8
2.6.2—Luminaires ................................................................................................................................................. 2-8

2.7—MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................................................................ 2-8

2.8—REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................................... 2-9

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 SECTION 3: LOADS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
3.1—SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3-1

3.2—DEFINITIONS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3-1

3.3—NOTATION.......................................................................................................................................................................... 3-2

3.4—GROUP LOAD COMBINATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 3-3

3.5—DEAD LOAD ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3-3

3.6—LIVE LOAD ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3-4

3.7—ICE LOAD ............................................................................................................................................................................ 3-4

3.8—WIND LOAD ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3-5

3.8.1—Wind Pressure Equation............................................................................................................................................. 3-5
3.8.2—Basic Wind Speed ...................................................................................................................................................... 3-5
3.8.2.1—Elevated Locations .......................................................................................................................................... 3-6
3.8.2.2—Special Wind Regions ..................................................................................................................................... 3-6
3.8.3—Wind Importance Factor Ir ......................................................................................................................................... 3-6
3.8.4—Height and Exposure Factor Kz ................................................................................................................................ 3-12
3.8.5—Gust Effect Factor G ................................................................................................................................................ 3-13
3.8.6—Drag Coefficients Cd ................................................................................................................................................ 3-15

3.9—DESIGN WIND LOADS ON STRUCTURES ................................................................................................................. 3-20

3.9.1—Load Application ...................................................................................................................................................... 3-20
3.9.2—Design Loads for Horizontal Supports .................................................................................................................... 3-21
3.9.3—Design Loads for Vertical Supports ........................................................................................................................ 3-21
3.9.4—Unsymmetrical Wind Loading ................................................................................................................................ 3-21
3.9.4.1—Overhead Cantilevered Supports................................................................................................................... 3-22
3.9.4.2—Concentrically Mounted Supports................................................................................................................. 3-22

3.10—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................................. 3-26

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 SECTION 4: ANALYSIS AND DESIGN—GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
4
4
4.1—SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 4-1

4.2—DEFINITIONS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 4-1

4.3—NOTATION.......................................................................................................................................................................... 4-1

4.4—DESIGN METHOD ............................................................................................................................................................. 4-2

4.5—STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS............................................................................................................................................... 4-2

4.6—DESIGN OF STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS ........................................................................................................................ 4-2

4.6.1—Vertical Cantilever Supports (Pole-Type) ................................................................................................................. 4-2
4.6.2—Horizontal Supports (Single-Member or Truss)........................................................................................................ 4-3
4.6.3—Horizontal Supports (Span Wire and Connections) .................................................................................................. 4-3

4.7—ANALYSIS OF SPAN-WIRE STRUCTURES .................................................................................................................. 4-3

4.8—SECOND-ORDER EFFECTS ............................................................................................................................................. 4-3

4.8.1—Simplified Method ..................................................................................................................................................... 4-4
4.8.2—Detailed Method ......................................................................................................................................................... 4-5

4.9—REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................................................... 4-5

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 SECTION 5: STEEL DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
5
5.1—SCOPE ......................................................................................................................................................................... 5-1

5.2—DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................................. 5-1

5.3—NOTATION ................................................................................................................................................................. 5-1

5.4—MATERIAL—STRUCTURAL STEEL ...................................................................................................................... 5-3

5.5—LOCAL BUCKLING ................................................................................................................................................... 5-3

5.5.1—Classification of Steel Sections .......................................................................................................................... 5-3
5.5.2—Width–Thickness Ratios for Round and Multisided Tubular Sections .............................................................. 5-4
5.5.3—Width–Thickness Ratios for Compression Plate Elements ................................................................................ 5-4
5.5.4—Slender Element Sections................................................................................................................................... 5-5

5.6—ALLOWABLE BENDING STRESS FOR ROUND AND MULTISIDED TUBULAR MEMBERS ........................ 5-6

5.7—ALLOWABLE BENDING STRESS FOR FLANGED I-SHAPED MEMBERS AND CHANNELS ....................... 5-8
5.7.1—Strong Axis Bending .......................................................................................................................................... 5-8
5.7.1.1—Members with Compact and Noncompact Sections and Adequate Lateral Support ................................ 5-8
5.7.1.2—Members with Compact or Noncompact Sections and with Inadequate Lateral Support ........................ 5-8
5.7.2—Weak Axis Bending ........................................................................................................................................... 5-9
5.7.2.1—Members with Compact Sections ............................................................................................................ 5-9
5.7.2.2—Members with Noncompact Sections .................................................................................................... 5-10

5.8—ALLOWABLE BENDING STRESS FOR SOLID BARS AND RECTANGULAR PLATES BENT ABOUT
THEIR MINOR (WEAK) AXIS......................................................................................................................................... 5-10

5.9—ALLOWABLE TENSION STRESS .......................................................................................................................... 5-10

5.9.1—Determination of the Area A ............................................................................................................................ 5-11
5.9.1.1—Tension Load Transmitted Only by Bolts .............................................................................................. 5-11
5.9.1.2—Tension Load Transmitted Only by Longitudinal Welds to Other than a Plate Member or by
Longitudinal Welds in Combination with Transverse Welds ............................................................................... 5-11
5.9.1.3—Tension Load Transmitted Only by Transverse Welds .......................................................................... 5-11
5.9.1.4—Tension Load Transmitted to a Plate by Longitudinal Welds along Both Edges at the End
of the Plate for Lw ≥ w ........................................................................................................................................... 5-11
5.9.2—Slenderness Limit............................................................................................................................................. 5-11

5.10—ALLOWABLE COMPRESSION STRESS ............................................................................................................. 5-12

5.10.1—Slenderness Limit........................................................................................................................................... 5-12

5.11—ALLOWABLE SHEAR STRESS............................................................................................................................ 5-12

5.11.1—Round Tubular Members ............................................................................................................................... 5-13
5.11.2—Multisided Tubular Members......................................................................................................................... 5-14
5.11.3—Other Shapes .................................................................................................................................................. 5-15

5.12—COMBINED STRESSES......................................................................................................................................... 5-15

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 5.12.1—Vertical Cantilever Pole-Type Supports......................................................................................................... 5-16
5.12.2—Other Members .............................................................................................................................................. 5-16
5.12.2.1—Axial Compression, Bending, and Shear ............................................................................................. 5-16
5.12.2.2—Axial Tension, Bending, and Shear...................................................................................................... 5-17
5.12.2.3—Bending of Square and Rectangular Tubes .......................................................................................... 5-17

5.13—CABLES AND CONNECTIONS ............................................................................................................................ 5-18

5.14—DETAILS OF DESIGN ........................................................................................................................................... 5-18

5.14.1—Minimum Thickness of Material .................................................................................................................... 5-18
5.14.2—Tube Sections ................................................................................................................................................. 5-18
5.14.3—Transverse Plate Thickness ............................................................................................................................ 5-19
5.14.4—Stiffened Tube-to-Transverse-Plate Connections........................................................................................... 5-20
5.14.5—Backing Rings ................................................................................................................................................ 5-20
5.14.6—Holes and Cutouts .......................................................................................................................................... 5-21
5.14.6.1—Unreinforced Holes and Cutouts .......................................................................................................... 5-21
5.14.6.2—Reinforced Holes and Cutouts ............................................................................................................. 5-23
5.14.7—Mast-Arm-to-Pole Connections ..................................................................................................................... 5-24
5.14.8—Dimensional Tolerances ................................................................................................................................. 5-25
5.14.9—Slip Type Field Splice .................................................................................................................................... 5-26

5.15—WELDED CONNECTIONS .................................................................................................................................... 5-26

5.15.1—Tube-to-Tube Splice Circumferential Welds ................................................................................................. 5-26
5.15.2—Longitudinal Seam Welds .............................................................................................................................. 5-26
5.15.3—Tube-to-Transverse-Plate Connection Welds................................................................................................. 5-27
5.15.4—Hand-Hole Welds and Other Structural Welds .............................................................................................. 5-28
5.15.5—Weld Inspection ............................................................................................................................................. 5-28

5.16—BOLTED CONNECTIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 5-29

5.17—ANCHOR BOLT CONNECTIONS......................................................................................................................... 5-29

5.17.1—Anchor Bolt Types ......................................................................................................................................... 5-30
5.17.2—Anchor Bolt Materials .................................................................................................................................... 5-30
5.17.3—Design Basis................................................................................................................................................... 5-31
5.17.3.1—Double-Nut Anchor Bolt Connections ................................................................................................. 5-32
5.17.3.2—Single-Nut Anchor Bolt Connections .................................................................................................. 5-32
5.17.3.3—Use of Grout......................................................................................................................................... 5-33
5.17.3.4—Wind-Induced Cyclic Loads ................................................................................................................ 5-33
5.17.4—Anchor Bolt Design........................................................................................................................................ 5-33
5.17.4.1—Distribution of Anchor Bolt Forces...................................................................................................... 5-33
5.17.4.2—Allowable Stresses for Anchor Bolts ................................................................................................... 5-33
5.17.4.3—Bending Stress in Anchor Bolts ........................................................................................................... 5-34
5.17.4.4—Anchor Bolt Holes in Base Plate .......................................................................................................... 5-35
5.17.5—Anchor Bolt Installation ................................................................................................................................. 5-35
5.17.5.1—Anchorage Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 5-36
5.17.5.2—Anchor Bolt Pretensioning ................................................................................................................... 5-36
5.17.5.3—Plumbness of Anchor Bolts.................................................................................................................. 5-41

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5.18—MINIMUM PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEEL .................................................................................... 5-41
5.18.1—General ........................................................................................................................................................... 5-41
5.18.2—Painted Structures .......................................................................................................................................... 5-41
5.18.3—Galvanized Structures .................................................................................................................................... 5-41

5.19—REFERENCES......................................................................................................................................................... 5-41

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 SECTION 6: ALUMINUM DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
6
6.1—SCOPE ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 6-1

6.2—NOTATION .............................................................................................................................................................................. 6-1

6.3—MATERIAL—ALUMINUM ALLOY.................................................................................................................................... 6-3

6.4—NONWELDED MEMBERS .................................................................................................................................................... 6-3

6.4.1—Local Buckling Stress ...................................................................................................................................................6-11
6.4.2—Allowable Bending Stress ............................................................................................................................................6-12
6.4.2.1—Effect of Local Buckling on Beam Strength .....................................................................................................6-13
6.4.3—Allowable Tension Stress .............................................................................................................................................6-13
6.4.3.1—Slenderness Limit...............................................................................................................................................6-13
6.4.4—Allowable Compression Stress ....................................................................................................................................6-13
6.4.4.1—Effect of Local Buckling on Column Strength .................................................................................................6-14
6.4.4.2—Slenderness Limit...............................................................................................................................................6-14
6.4.5—Allowable Shear Stress .................................................................................................................................................6-14
6.4.5.1—Torsion and Shear in Tubes ...............................................................................................................................6-14
6.4.6—Bearing ..........................................................................................................................................................................6-14

6.5—WELDED MEMBERS ...........................................................................................................................................................6-15

6.5.1—Filler Wire .....................................................................................................................................................................6-15
6.5.2—Members with Longitudinal Welds .............................................................................................................................6-16
6.5.3—Members with Transverse Welds.................................................................................................................................6-17

6.6—CASTING ALLOYS ..............................................................................................................................................................6-17

6.7—COMBINED STRESSES .......................................................................................................................................................6-18

6.7.1—Vertical Cantilever Pole-Type Supports ......................................................................................................................6-19
6.7.2—Other Members .............................................................................................................................................................6-19
6.7.2.1—Axial Compression, Bending, and Shear ..........................................................................................................6-19
6.7.2.2—Axial Tension, Bending, and Shear...................................................................................................................6-20

6.8—DETAILS OF DESIGN ..........................................................................................................................................................6-20

6.8.1—Minimum Thickness of Material..................................................................................................................................6-20
6.8.2—Dimensional Tolerances ...............................................................................................................................................6-21

6.9—WELDED CONNECTIONS ..................................................................................................................................................6-21

6.10—BOLTED CONNECTIONS AND ANCHOR BOLTS ......................................................................................................6-21

6.11—PROTECTION ......................................................................................................................................................................6-21
6.11.1—Galvanic Corrosion (Contact with Dissimilar Materials)..........................................................................................6-21
6.11.2—Overall Painting ..........................................................................................................................................................6-22
6.11.3—Cleaning and Treatment of Metal Surfaces ...............................................................................................................6-23
6.11.4—Anodizing....................................................................................................................................................................6-23

6.12—REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................................................................6-23

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 SECTION 7: PRESTRESSED CONCRETE DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
7
7.1—SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 7-1

7.2—DEFINITIONS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 7-1

7.3—NOTATION.......................................................................................................................................................................... 7-1

7.4—MATERIALS ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7-2

7.5—DESIGN ................................................................................................................................................................................ 7-2

7.5.1—Method of Design....................................................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.5.2—Concrete Strength ....................................................................................................................................................... 7-3

7.6—ALLOWABLE STRESSES ................................................................................................................................................. 7-3

7.6.1—Concrete...................................................................................................................................................................... 7-3
7.6.2—Prestressing Tendons.................................................................................................................................................. 7-3

7.7—LOSS OF PRESTRESS ....................................................................................................................................................... 7-4

7.8—STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................................................... 7-4

7.8.1—Design Flexural Strength ........................................................................................................................................... 7-4
7.8.2—Design Shear Strength................................................................................................................................................ 7-5
7.8.3—Design Torsional Strength ......................................................................................................................................... 7-6
7.8.4—Combined Shear and Torsion .................................................................................................................................... 7-7

7.9—DEVELOPMENT OF PRESTRESSING STRAND .......................................................................................................... 7-7

7.9.1—Development Length .................................................................................................................................................. 7-7
7.9.2—Transfer Length .......................................................................................................................................................... 7-7

7.10—DURABILITY .................................................................................................................................................................... 7-8

7.10.1—General ..................................................................................................................................................................... 7-8
7.10.2—Concrete Cover......................................................................................................................................................... 7-8

7.11—MANUFACTURING TOLERANCES ............................................................................................................................. 7-8

7.12—INSPECTION ..................................................................................................................................................................... 7-9

7.13—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................................... 7-9

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 SECTION 8: FIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITES DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
8.1—SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 8-1

8.2—DEFINITIONS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 8-1

8.3—NOTATION.......................................................................................................................................................................... 8-1

8.4—MATERIAL—FIBERGLASS-REINFORCED POLYESTER.......................................................................................... 8-2

8.4.1—Polyester Resins ......................................................................................................................................................... 8-3
8.4.2—Glass Fiber Reinforcement......................................................................................................................................... 8-3

8.5—MANUFACTURING METHODS ...................................................................................................................................... 8-3

8.6—METHOD OF DESIGN ....................................................................................................................................................... 8-4

8.6.1—Design Assumptions .................................................................................................................................................. 8-5

8.7—TESTING .............................................................................................................................................................................. 8-5

8.7.1—Bending Strength of FRP Poles ................................................................................................................................. 8-5
8.7.2—Other Tests ................................................................................................................................................................. 8-6

8.8—ALLOWABLE STRESSES ................................................................................................................................................. 8-6

8.8.1—Determination of Mechanical Properties of FRP ...................................................................................................... 8-6
8.8.2—Allowable Bending Stress for Tubular Sections ....................................................................................................... 8-7
8.8.3—Allowable Bending Stress for W and I Sections ....................................................................................................... 8-8
8.8.4—Allowable Compression Stress—Flexural Buckling................................................................................................. 8-8
8.8.5—Allowable Compression Stress—Local Buckling ..................................................................................................... 8-9
8.8.6—Allowable Tension Stress .......................................................................................................................................... 8-9
8.8.7—Allowable Shear Stress .............................................................................................................................................. 8-9

8.9—COMBINED STRESSES..................................................................................................................................................... 8-9

8.9.1—Bending and Compression ....................................................................................................................................... 8-10
8.9.2—Bending and Tension ............................................................................................................................................... 8-10

8.10—MINIMUM PROTECTION FOR FRP MEMBERS ...................................................................................................... 8-11

8.11—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................................. 8-11

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 SECTION 9: WOOD DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
9
9.1—SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 9-1

9.2—DEFINITIONS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 9-1

9.3—NOTATION.......................................................................................................................................................................... 9-2

9.4—MATERIAL.......................................................................................................................................................................... 9-3
9.4.1—Wood Products ........................................................................................................................................................... 9-3

9.5—DESIGN—GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS .................................................................................................................... 9-3

9.5.1—Design Dimensions of Posts ...................................................................................................................................... 9-3
9.5.2—Design Dimensions of Poles ...................................................................................................................................... 9-3
9.5.3—Net Section ................................................................................................................................................................. 9-5

9.6—BASIC DESIGN VALUES FOR WOOD MEMBERS...................................................................................................... 9-5

9.7—ALLOWABLE STRESSES FOR WOOD MEMBERS ..................................................................................................... 9-8

9.8—ADJUSTMENT FACTORS ................................................................................................................................................ 9-9

9.8.1—Wet Service Factor for Posts CM................................................................................................................................ 9-9
9.8.2—Wet Service Use for Poles ......................................................................................................................................... 9-9
9.8.3—Untreated Factor for Poles Cu .................................................................................................................................... 9-9

9.9—TAPERED COMPRESSION MEMBERS........................................................................................................................ 9-10

9.10—STRESS CALCULATIONS ............................................................................................................................................ 9-10

9.10.1—Shear Stress ............................................................................................................................................................ 9-10

9.11—COMBINED STRESSES................................................................................................................................................. 9-11

9.11.1—Combined Bending and Axial Compression ......................................................................................................... 9-11

9.12—CONNECTIONS .............................................................................................................................................................. 9-11

9.13—MINIMUM PROTECTION FOR WOOD PRODUCTS ............................................................................................... 9-12

9.13.1—Preservative Treatment for Posts ........................................................................................................................... 9-12
9.13.2—Preservative Treatment for Poles ........................................................................................................................... 9-12

9.14—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................................. 9-13

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 SECTION 10: SERVICEABILITY REQUIREMENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
10
10.1—SCOPE .............................................................................................................................................................................. 10-1

10.2—DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................................................. 10-1

10.3—NOTATION...................................................................................................................................................................... 10-1

10.4—DEFLECTION ................................................................................................................................................................. 10-1

10.4.1—Overhead Bridge Supports for Signs and Traffic Signals ..................................................................................... 10-1
10.4.2—Cantilevered Supports for Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signals ...................................................................... 10-2
10.4.2.1—Vertical Supports ......................................................................................................................................... 10-2
10.4.2.2—Horizontal Supports ..................................................................................................................................... 10-2
10.4.3—Vibration................................................................................................................................................................. 10-3
10.4.3.1—Requirements for Individual Truss Members ............................................................................................. 10-4

10.5—CAMBER ......................................................................................................................................................................... 10-4

10.6—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................................. 10-6

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 SECTION 11: FATIGUE DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
11
11.1—SCOPE .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11-1

11.2—DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................................................. 11-1

11.3—NOTATION...................................................................................................................................................................... 11-1

11.4—APPLICABLE STRUCTURE TYPES............................................................................................................................ 11-3

11.5—DESIGN CRITERIA ........................................................................................................................................................ 11-3

11.5.1—Nominal Stress-Based Design ............................................................................................................................... 11-4

11.6—FATIGUE IMPORTANCE FACTORS .......................................................................................................................... 11-4

11.7—FATIGUE DESIGN LOADS........................................................................................................................................... 11-6

11.7.1—Sign and Traffic Signal Structures ......................................................................................................................... 11-7
11.7.1.1—Galloping ..................................................................................................................................................... 11-7
11.7.1.2—Natural Wind Gust....................................................................................................................................... 11-8
11.7.1.3—Truck-Induced Gust ..................................................................................................................................... 11-9
11.7.2—High-Mast Lighting Towers ................................................................................................................................ 11-10

11.8—DEFLECTION ............................................................................................................................................................... 11-12

11.9—FATIGUE RESISTANCE ............................................................................................................................................. 11-13

11.9.1—Detail Classification ............................................................................................................................................. 11-13
11.9.2—Stress Range ......................................................................................................................................................... 11-13
11.9.3—Fatigue Resistance................................................................................................................................................ 11-14
11.9.3.1—Stress Concentration Factors ..................................................................................................................... 11-16

11.10—REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................................. 11-33

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 SECTION 12: BREAKAWAY SUPPORTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
12 12
12.1—SCOPE ......................................................................................................................................................................12-1

12.2—DEFINITIONS .........................................................................................................................................................12-1

12.3—DESIGN OF BREAKAWAY SUPPORTS.............................................................................................................12-2

12.4—STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE.........................................................................................................................12-2

12.5—BREAKAWAY DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE ....................................................................................................12-3

12.5.1—Impact Test Evaluation Criteria .....................................................................................................................12-3
12.5.2—Analytical Evaluation of Impact Tests ..........................................................................................................12-5
12.5.3—Additional Requirements ...............................................................................................................................12-5

12.6—DURABILITY REQUIREMENTS .........................................................................................................................12-7

12.7—BREAKAWAY MECHANISMS............................................................................................................................12-7

12.8—REFERENCES .........................................................................................................................................................12-7

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 SECTION 13: FOUNDATION DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
13
13.1—SCOPE .............................................................................................................................................................................. 13-1

13.2—DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................................................. 13-1

13.3—NOTATION...................................................................................................................................................................... 13-1

13.4—DETERMINATION OF SOIL PROPERTIES ............................................................................................................... 13-2

13.5—FOUNDATION BEARING CAPACITY ....................................................................................................................... 13-2

13.5.1—Allowable Bearing Capacity .................................................................................................................................. 13-2

13.6—DRILLED SHAFTS ......................................................................................................................................................... 13-2

13.6.1—Geotechnical Design .............................................................................................................................................. 13-3
13.6.1.1—Embedment .................................................................................................................................................. 13-3
13.6.1.2—Capacity ....................................................................................................................................................... 13-6
13.6.2—Structural Design.................................................................................................................................................... 13-6
13.6.2.1—Details .......................................................................................................................................................... 13-6

13.7—SPREAD FOOTINGS ...................................................................................................................................................... 13-6

13.7.1—Geotechnical Design .............................................................................................................................................. 13-6
13.7.2—Structural Design.................................................................................................................................................... 13-6

13.8—PILES ................................................................................................................................................................................ 13-6

13.8.1—Geotechnical Design .............................................................................................................................................. 13-7
13.8.2—Structural Design.................................................................................................................................................... 13-7

13.9—SCREW-IN HELIX.......................................................................................................................................................... 13-7

13.10—EMBEDMENT OF LIGHTLY LOADED SMALL POLES AND POSTS ................................................................ 13-7

13.11—REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................................. 13-10

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 APPENDIX A: ANALYSIS OF SPAN-WIRE STRUCTURES

TABLE OF CONTENTS
A.1—SCOPE ....................................................................................................................................................................... A-1

A.2—DEFINITIONS ........................................................................................................................................................... A-1

A.3—NOTATION ............................................................................................................................................................... A-1

A.4—CONFIGURATIONS................................................................................................................................................. A-2

A.5—SAG............................................................................................................................................................................ A-2

A.6—LOADING ................................................................................................................................................................. A-3

A.7—SIMPLIFIED METHOD............................................................................................................................................ A-3

A.7.1—Group I Load Combination (Dead Load Only) ................................................................................................ A-3
A.7.2—Group II and Group III Load Combinations (Dead, Ice, and Wind Loads) .................................................... A-4

A.8—DETAILED METHOD .............................................................................................................................................. A-7

A.8.1—Group I Load Combination (Dead Load Only) ................................................................................................ A-7
A.8.2—Group II and Group III Load Combinations (Dead, Ice, and Wind Loads) ................................................... A-7

A.9—REFERENCES........................................................................................................................................................... A-8

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 APPENDIX B: DESIGN AIDS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
B

B.1—SECTIONAL PROPERTIES FOR TUBULAR SHAPES ......................................................................................... B-1

B.2—STRESSES FOR TUBULAR SECTIONS................................................................................................................. B-2

B.3—DEFLECTION EQUATIONS FOR TAPERED TUBULAR CANTILEVERED BEAMS ...................................... B-4

B4—DEFLECTION EQUATIONS FOR TAPERED CANTILEVERED BEAMS ........................................................... B-5

B.5—EFFECTIVE LENGTH FACTORS FOR COLUMNS .............................................................................................. B-7

B.6—ALLOWABLE STRESSES FOR SELECTED ALUMINUM ALLOYS .................................................................. B-7

B.7—REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................................................... B-42

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 APPENDIX C: ALTERNATE METHOD FOR WIND PRESSURES

TABLE OF CONTENTS
C

C.1—ALTERNATE METHOD .................................................................................................................................. C-1

C.2—WIND LOAD ..................................................................................................................................................... C-1

C.3—WIND PRESSURE FORMULA ........................................................................................................................ C-1

C.4—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................... C-7

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 APPENDIX D: ALTERNATE METHODS FOR FATIGUE DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS
D
D.1—ALTERNATE METHODS ................................................................................................................................................ D-1

D.2—NOMENCLATURE ........................................................................................................................................................... D-1

D.3—LOCAL STRESS-BASED DESIGN ................................................................................................................................. D-1

D.3.1—Assessment of Finite Life ........................................................................................................................................ D-1
D.3.1.1—Determination of Local Stress ....................................................................................................................... D-2
D.3.1.2—Fatigue Resistance ......................................................................................................................................... D-2
D.3.2—Design for Infinite Life ............................................................................................................................................ D-3
D.3.2.1—Determination of Local Stress ....................................................................................................................... D-3
D.3.2.2—Fatigue Resistance ......................................................................................................................................... D-4

D.4—EXPERIMENT BASED DESIGN .................................................................................................................................... D-4

D.4.1—Determination of Finite Life Fatigue Resistance..................................................................................................... D-4
D.4.1.1—Experimental Protocols.................................................................................................................................. D-4
D.4.1.2—Determination of Fatigue Resistance ............................................................................................................ D-5
D.4.2—Determination of Infinite Life Fatigue Resistance .................................................................................................. D-5
D.4.2.1—Experimental Protocols.................................................................................................................................. D-5
D.4.2.2—Determination of Fatigue Resistance ............................................................................................................ D-6

D.5—REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................................... D-6

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