Chemical Penetration and Retention - Legal Requirements

Chemical treatment is not just an auxiliary process but a core determinant of the longevity, resilience, and safety of wooden utility poles. The ability of the preservative chemicals to permeate deeply and uniformly into the wood (penetration) and their proper concentration (retention) are indispensable for the effective preservation of the poles.

Minimum Chemical Penetration - Legal Requirements

As part of our commitment to upholding EN, NF, and SANS754 standards, we adhere strictly to the minimum legal requirements for chemical penetration and retention. These benchmarks exist to ensure the poles' optimal resistance against pests, fungi, and environmental degradation, thereby preventing premature failure and potential safety hazards.

Minimum penetration requirement - 15mm.
Penetration must be solid and may exceed 15mm
Penetration must not be spotty (see picture below).
Measurement technique. A 5mm thick sample is extracted from the pole with an increment borer, at the final inspection, at the factory. Can also be measured by the client, at the delivery point, or in the field at the time of installation.

The penetration test cores above which show non-homogeneous penetration will lead to the rejection of the poles concerned.

Chemical Retention

In the case of Creosote treated poles - 115kg per cubic meter.
In the case of CCA treated poles - 16kg per cubic meter
Ask your supplier for detailed records

Optimal penetration and retention are outcomes of meticulous process controls during treatment, encompassing appropriate conditioning of wood, careful selection of preservatives, and calibrated application methods. Our state-of-the-art facilities, complemented by a team of dedicated professionals, ensure that every pole leaving our premises meets the highest standards.