Guy Wire Anchors are critical components of tower installation,
safety, and preparation work. Before the tower and guy wire anchors are installed, the soil type must be determined. It is very important
to determine the type of soil to several feet below the ground surface before purchasing anchors. In addition to the soil type at the site, it is also important to know the weather conditions at the site, such as maximum winds and icing that may collect on the tower. Soil conditions can soften or change markedly with heavy rains. Since there can be variations in the precise soil condition at a site, you may want to purchase two or more types of anchors or
sizes for the installation, and choose the appropriate anchor once you have begun installation.
Seek the advice of a professional engineer if you are not confident that you can install the appropriate guy wire anchors.
Temporary guying of steel towers is always necessary where more than one tower section is erected. Under no circumstances should the tower be advanced more than two sections without guying. Permanent guy wire anchors are to be installed before the temporary ones are removed.
Screw-In Guy Wire Anchors
Screw-in Guy Wire Anchors are recommended for softer soil types. They do not work well in rocky soils. The screw-in anchor is a 66" (1.67m) hot-dip galvanized steel bar with an eye on one end for attaching the guy wires and a 6" or 8" (152.4mm or 203.2mm) diameter screw at the bottom. These are standard anchors used in the utility industry.
Drive-In Guy Wire Anchors
Drive-in Guy Wire Anchors are recommended for denser, rocky soils. The anchor
is a 6" (152.4mm) wide malleable iron triangle with a 48" (1.22m) long cable attached to it. A drive-rod is used to drive the anchor into the ground. Drive rods can be driven manually with a sledge or with power equipment if available.
Rock Guy Wire Anchors
Rock Guy Wire Anchors are standard in the construction industry for rocky areas. They require drilling a hole for insertion of a threaded rock guy wire anchor. The anchor can then be cemented into place if desired. Grouting is necessary with soft, crumbling rocks or if weathering is expected.
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