This state-of-the-art technology represents a significant step forward in the construction of telecommunications infrastructure, offering numerous advantages compared to traditional towers.
Technical characteristics and advantages
1. Increased strength and stability
Glued laminated timber, also known as glulam, consists of layers of dimensional lumber bonded together with durable, moisture-resistant structural adhesives. This technique enables greater strength and load resistance compared to ordinary wooden columns. This provides better stability, which is a key characteristic for high structures such as antenna towers.
2. Resistance to natural disasters
Laminated wooden masts are resistant to extreme weather conditions, including high winds, rain, and snow. Thanks to a special gluing process, these masts are not only less prone to cracking and bending, but are also more durable in relation to moisture and temperature changes.
3. Durability and less maintenance
Traditional wooden towers require regular maintenance to prevent deterioration due to weathering. Laminated wood, on the other hand, offers an extended lifespan with minimal maintenance costs. It is an economically viable solution for long-term infrastructure projects.
4. Environmental sustainability
The use of glued laminated wood contributes to the reduction of the carbon footprint, as wood acts as a natural carbon sink. The production process of this material also consumes less energy compared to the production of steel or concrete, making it a sustainable choice for modern construction.
5. Esthetic appeal
In addition to the functional advantages, laminated wooden towers also have a visual appeal that easily fits into different landscapes, be it urban or natural environments. Their elegant and natural appearance contributes to the esthetics of the space where they are installed.
Static calculation and performance
The presentation by spec. ing. aedif. Ivan Volarić included a thorough analysis of the static calculation and performance of these towers. Static calculation includes the analysis of loads such as wind forces, antenna weight, and seismic effects, using advanced software tools for simulation and design optimization.
The results showed that these masts can withstand the expected loads with a significant safety margin. The production of laminated wooden towers begins with the production of glulam, which is made by gluing thin layers of lumber under high pressure, which ensures high strength and resistance of the material.
The manufacturing process includes rigorous quality control to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of the masts, while on-site assembly ensures precise placement and stability.
Conference presentation
The presentation of laminated wooden antenna towers at the Days of the Croatian Chamber of Civil Engineers included detailed descriptions of the construction and assembly of these poles. The experts present had the opportunity to see examples of real applications and get an insight into the technology behind the creation of these innovative structures.
Special emphasis was placed on the environmental and economic benefits that this technology brings, thus encouraging wider application in future telecommunications infrastructure projects.
Concluding the presentation, the experts pointed out that laminated wooden antenna towers represent a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional solutions, offering superior resistance, durability and esthetic value. This innovation not only improves the quality of telecommunication services, but also contributes to environmental conservation and the reduction of maintenance costs, which is key to sustainable development in construction.
With this demonstration, laminated wooden 40-meter antenna towers proved to be a significant advance in the field of construction, confirming their value as an exceptional solution for modern infrastructure.
Two such towers, so-called Ecopols, have already been built in the Republic of Croatia, located in Brod-Posavina County and Zagreb County.
