Sports Lighting

Types of Sports Lighting Poles: Concrete, Steel, Aluminum, and Wood Options

1. Concrete Poles

   These poles are known for their durability and resistance to environmental factors like wind and weather. They are typically precast and can be installed quickly and efficiently. Concrete poles can be customized to different heights and are often used in high-traffic areas due to their strength and longevity.

2. Steel Poles

   Steel poles are another popular option, offering a balance between strength and weight. They can be coated or painted to resist corrosion and are often used in outdoor sports facilities. Steel poles can be designed in various shapes and sizes, making them adaptable to different sports lighting needs.

   Steel poles used in sports lighting systems are known for their strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They are typically made from high-strength, low-alloy steel conforming to ASTM A572 Grade 65 or ASTM A595 Grade A, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

   One key advantage of steel poles is their pre-engineering and pre-fabrication capabilities. Many manufacturers offer pre-engineered steel poles designed to meet specific wind load and EPA requirements. This pre-engineering process ensures that the poles are optimized for their intended use, reducing the need for on-site modifications and speeding up the installation process.

   For example, some of our manufacturers offer a range of pre-engineered steel poles that are designed to support a specific number of lighting fixtures. These poles are available in various heights and wind load ratings, allowing for customization based on the specific needs of the sports facility.

   In addition to their pre-engineering capabilities, steel poles are also known for their durability. They are typically hot-dipped galvanized to provide a protective coating that helps prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of the pole. Hot-dip galvanizing involves immersing the steel pole in a bath of molten zinc, which reacts with the steel to form a zinc-iron alloy layer. This layer provides a barrier against corrosion, ensuring that the steel pole can withstand exposure to the elements for many years.

   Overall, steel poles offer a balance of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for sports lighting systems.

3. Wood Poles

   Wood poles are a popular choice for sports lighting systems due to their durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness. They are typically made from either Southern Yellow Pine or Ponderosa Pine, both of which are known for their resistance to decay and insect damage. Wood poles can be treated with preservatives to further extend their lifespan, which can be up to 70 years or more, with proper maintenance.

   Wood poles are available in various sizes and classes, with the height of the poles ranging from 20 feet for smaller fields to 70 feet or more for larger stadiums. One advantage of wood poles is their relatively low cost compared to steel or concrete poles. They are also easier to install and can be used with existing light fixtures, which can save on replacement costs.

4. Aluminum Poles

   Aluminum poles are lightweight and easy to install, making them a cost-effective option for sports lighting. They are also resistant to corrosion and can be designed in various styles to match the aesthetic of the sports facility.

When selecting sports lighting poles, it's essential to consider factors such as the height and weight of the lighting fixtures, the environmental conditions of the sports facility, and the aesthetic preferences of the facility owners. Working with a reputable sports lighting company like Gorilla Netting ensures that the right type of pole is selected for your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and safety.