Watch the Video: How Poles are Made in Sidney, Nebraska

Have you ever wondered how the towering wood utility poles that border our freeways and highways get there in the first place?

It’s a fascinating process; in this video – filmed at our Sidney, Nebraska plant – you can view the step-by-step process that goes into creating these vital structures, from the arrival of raw materials to the meticulous treatments and quality checks that ensure their durability and longevity.

Here’s a summary of each step outlined in the video.

  1. Species transport: Various species of wood are transported to a Bell Lumber and Pole facility. These species are chosen based on their suitability for pole production, considering factors such as strength, durability, and availability.

  2. Sorting: Upon arrival, the poles are sorted meticulously according to their species, class, and length. This step ensures that each pole is categorized correctly for further processing and eventual use.

  3. Peeling and Incising: The poles undergo peeling, where the outer bark layer is removed, revealing the raw wood beneath. Incising creates small slits or perforations in the wood to aid in the penetration of preservatives during the treatment process.

  4. Length verification and cutting: Using advanced computer-aided design (CAD) technology, the length of each pole is verified and adjusted if necessary. Precision cutting machines then cut the poles to their final specified length with accuracy.

  5. Top framing: Top framing involves the shaping and framing of the top end of each pole according to its intended purpose. This step ensures that the poles are structurally sound and ready for installation upon reaching their destination.

  6. Standard work audits: Regular audits are conducted to ensure that all processes adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety. These audits help identify any deviations or issues that need to be addressed promptly.

  7. Through bore groundline prep: Groundline preparation involves making specific adjustments and treatments to the portion of the pole that will be in contact with the ground. Through-bore techniques may be employed to enhance durability and resistance to decay.

  8. Moisture analysis: Before treatment, moisture levels within the wood are carefully analyzed. This ensures that the wood is at the optimal moisture content for effective treatment and long-term preservation.

  9. Treatment confirmation: Following the treatment process, thorough checks are conducted to confirm that the preservatives have penetrated the wood effectively and that the desired retention levels have been achieved. This step is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of the poles.

  10. Chemical analysis: Samples from the treated poles undergo chemical analysis to verify the effectiveness of the treatment process and to ensure compliance with regulatory standards for environmental safety and product quality.

  11. Self-unloader delivery: Finally, the poles are loaded onto self-unloading trucks or other transportation vehicles for delivery to their destination. This method ensures efficient and convenient delivery while minimizing handling and potential damage to the poles during transit.

From the careful selection and sorting of wood species to the rigorous quality checks and treatments, each step in the process contributes to creating poles that will withstand the test of time and provide vital functions in our communities.

Sustainable wood utility poles, made to last.

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