HUBBELL LIGHTING / POLE VIBRATION APPLICATION GUIDE

As an industry leader in light pole design and manufacturing, Hubbell is committed to providing information to help
designers avoid wind induced pole vibration. This paper presents a practical guide for recognizing and minimizing
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a pole system.

Two common types of pole vibration are:

FIRST MODE (Harmonic) VIBRATION SECOND MODE (Resonance) VIBRATION

Figure 1: First and Second Mode Pole Vibration

FIRST MODE VIBRATION is characterized by a side to side movement that has a maximum displacement at
the top of the pole. This behavior may be referred to as “sway”. The frequency of movement is about 1 cycle per
second or less. Because the vibration frequency is comparatively small, the onset of material fatigue will take
longer than poles exhibiting higher modes of vibration.

SECOND MODE VIBRATION is characterized by a symmetric oscillation at or near the midpoint of the pole
shaft. The oscillation frequency typically ranges from 3-6 cycles per second. Second mode vibration occurs when
air moving across a pole reaches “lock-in” velocity. At “lock-in” velocity, Vortex Shedding produces alternating
transverse forces that oscillate the pole at one of its natural frequencies. The onset of fatigue cracking or structural
failure may occur quickly under such conditions.

VORTEX SHEDDING is the phenomenon caused by a steady, constant velocity wind moving across a slender,
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These pockets alternate, creating alternating forces that act on the pole perpendicular to the wind direction.

Figure 2: Vortex Shedding simulation about a cylinder demonstrating alternating low pressure zones in wake

EFFECTS OF WIND INDUCED VIBRATION

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design and shape, and wind conditions. Wind induced vibration can lead to reduced performance in the pole
systems and may result in structural failure.

www.hubbelllighting.com / 701 Millennium Blvd. Greenville, SC 29607 / 864.678.1000 12/14

 HUBBELL LIGHTING / POLE VIBRATION APPLICATION GUIDE

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induced pole vibration.

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natural or man-made wind breaks as common in the
upper mid-west, plains states, and some coastal
regions.

Figure 3: Coastal Locations

Fig. 3

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parking structures, causeways)

Figure 4: Open terrain examples in central US

Fig. 4

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currents or areas with natural or man-made features that
alter wind patterns

Figure 5: Illustration of wind pattern changes caused by structures

Fig. 5

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Figure 6: Jet blast

Fig. 6

)YPKNLZHUK7HYRPUN+LJRZ– Flat, elevated structures in

open areas can also transfer vibration generated by
moving vehicles or move on their own as a result for
vortex shedding about its structural supports

Figure 7: Example of parking deck with pole mounted luminaires.

Fig. 7

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Figure 8: Unique application.

Fig. 8

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 HUBBELL LIGHTING / POLE VIBRATION APPLICATION GUIDE

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Pole selection can also contribute to the potential for wind induced vibration. Relevant design attributes are:

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the pole and its susceptibility to vibration. Loads that exceed the design limits of the pole may result in structural failure. Also
problematic, very small loads and zero loaded poles (lightly damped) may be prone to vibration.

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An increase in height will increase both values, making it more susceptible to wind induced vibration.

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between material types. Steel and aluminum are very common materials used in light pole manufacturing. Of the two types,
steel has higher strength of material properties than aluminum.

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cylinder at various wind approach angles

Taper – Taper can also change the aerodynamic characteristics of the pole, shifting the critical wind velocity that causes
Second Mode vibration.

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Mitigate risk through pole selection -

• Avoid poor damping conditions caused by under loading poles. Poles should not be installed without the luminaires they
are designed to support.

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cross sectional size, and/or minimize height.

• Consider round tapered poles.

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destructive vibration. Most dampers reduce the amplitude of mechanical vibrations by adding mass that moves at a
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excitation frequency, thereby changing the critical velocity and the forces generated by vortex shedding.

First Mode Dampers

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is designed for 4”, 5”, and 6” square aluminum and steel lighting poles.

Figure 10: First Mode Vibration Damper (Q41)

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 HUBBELL LIGHTING / POLE VIBRATION APPLICATION GUIDE
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Second Mode Dampers

Second Mode vibration dampers are designed to alter the natural frequency at which the pole will resonate, reducing the pole
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dampers are available.

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holes. These devices wrap around the inner surface of the pole shaft, are free
standing, and reduce motion.

Interior Canister (Q42) vibration dampers feature an internal cylinder that houses a
cushioned, weighted rod pendulum. This device moves in the opposite direction of the
shaft, disrupting vibrations. The impact of the pendulum against the cylindrical housing
may be audible under certain conditions. This type of damper is factory installed.
Figure 11: Canister and tube dampers

Perform and Record Pole Maintenance

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required.

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thumping of electrical conductors in the pole may be indications of pole vibration.
• Low torque values on anchor bolts.
• Loose or missing parts at the luminaire and/or pole top are an early indication that the pole may be vibrating in
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replace as necessary.
• Look for signs of rust and corrosion above the pole base plate weld and about the hand hole. Corrosion may
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plate weld may indicate shaft material fatigue. An inexpensive die may be used to aid in detection.

Figure 12: Example of fatigue cracking at
the base plate weld

• For square poles, inspect the corners near the base plate in a similar manner.
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is deemed to be structurally sound, mitigation steps should be taken immediately by adding dampers and monitoring the pole
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Wind induced vibration is a naturally occurring phenomena that may lead to structural failure of poles. Such a failure is not an
indication of inferior design, material, or craftsmanship. As such, Hubbell’s warranty does not apply to and Hubbell shall have no
liability for any failure of the products or damage due to fatigue failure or similar phenomena resulting from induced vibrations,
harmonic oscillation or resonance associated with movement of air currents around the product.

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