Service Life Prediction and Durability of Wooden Utility Poles in Cameroon: a Factor-Based Approach

Abstract

The durability of wooden electric poles is a critical concern in Cameroon, where they are extensively used for electricity distribution. However, for nearly two decades, their  premature degradation has gradually led the government to consider replacing them with concrete poles, a solution that is both costly and environmentally unfriendly. The aim of this study is to propose an approach for predicting and enhancing the service life of wooden poles, particularly eucalyptus poles, which are widely used in the country. The factor method, employed as the methodological framework, is based on identifying and weighing factors and sub-factors that influence the longevity or degradation of wooden poles throughout their life cycle. This method identifies six categories of factors and 19 sub-factors or variables, each with two or three weighted characteristics, as per ISO 15686 standards. The results show that a desired service life can be achieved by considering a combination of these variables, with the service life ranging from 8 months to 86 years. Furthermore, they recommend concentrating efforts on the optimal management of the conditions that influence the durability of wooden poles to avoid costly and unsustainable replacements.

Keywords: utility poles, durability, factor method, service life prediction, reference service life

DOI: 10.7176/CER/17-1-05

Publication date: April 30^th 2025