Transmission Tower, Lattice and Pole Repair

Overhead transmission, distribution and substation support structures are often in need of repair to ensure the safety and reliability of these very important assets. The ingression of water and other forms of moisture into the internal areas of tubular shaped (pole) structures that are sealed at the interface of the base plate and concrete foundation is considered one of worst case scenarios for these structures in terms of corrosion.  This form of corrosion is especially harmful as there are no observable signs that accelerated corrosion is taking place, such as the appearance of red rust staining, pitting or metal loss, that are typically used as indicators.

Two pole structures that have experienced accelerated corrosion that resulted in metal loss to the point of perforation are shown in the pictures above.   Test methods that are used to detect internal corrosion where there are not any visual signs of corrosion taking place include a boroscopic inspection and electrochemical corrosion testing.  Both of these test methods require a skilled technician in order to perform evaluations.

Above, the internal areas of two different pole structures taken during a boroscopic examination are shown.  Both exhibit internal corrosion and metal loss to varying degrees.

Above, water and other forms of moisture can build up over time.  The methods used for repair include, among others, retrofitting with hand hole access, adequate draining source installed,  fitting of steel repair plates and welding of new plate to existing shafts, and application of a protective coating system that is UV resistant.

Above, Matco Services’ field repair technician is in the process of installing a metal repair plate.  Below, drainage wells are cut into a concrete foundation.

As there are various procedures that are used to implement repairs and retrofit these structures it is considered a benefit to seek the expert advice of those most knowledge about internal corrosion damage and the methods used for repair and retrofitting.  Through its incorporation with Valmont Service Group (VSG), a leading provider of these services, Matco Services’ is now able offering a comprehensive inspection, assessment and repair program as well.

Engineering Solutions and Mitigation Techniques: As experienced materials and corrosion engineering experts, Matco Services' staff members are geared towards providing innovative and cost effective engineering solutions designed to meet the specific needs of our clients.  These solutions often incorporate the use of cathodic protection, application of protective coatings or tape wrappings, or the use of some other form of corrosion mitigation or early detection method.  Although Matco Services' has had the capability to carry out an assortment of these procedures for many years, we are delighted to now offer an additional scope of repair work that includes application of protective paints and coatings, structural repair and weld repair.  These repair procedures are performed by NACE certified technicians that have undergone extensive training in steel utility pole, lattice, tower and anchor rod corrosion assessment and mitigation techniques.

Matco Services' Team Members - Our team includes experts in a variety of desciplines including corrosion engineering, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, paint and coatings specialists, electrochemists, chemists, Ph.D. level scientists in materials selection and design, polymer and elastomer specialists, and concrete (petrographic) specialists that often work as a team to identify a the root cause of a materials failure.  We also have a vast array of laboratory and field testing equipment that is enlisted at times when a repair or refurbishment of a structure is required. All of Matco Services' testing equipment is calibrated on a routine basis in accordance with both national and international standards, and is ready to be put to use at a moment's notice. Matco Services' staff includes a variety of experts in corrosion and materials engineering, as well as the methods used to repair and retrofit a variety of structures.  The following staff memebers of Matco Services' are part of the service offerings listed on this page.  An asterisk indicates NACE training and certification.

Mr. Geoff Rhodes Mr. Ron Hansen (*)

Mr. Ed Larkin                    Mr. Gary Woita

Ms. Heather Groll (*)          Mr. Doug Swensen (*)

We Value Our Customers... Throughout the years we have noticed that much of our business comes from repeat customers. Our expertise and well-equipped lab can account for much of this, but we believe there is something more to it. We attribute it to the fact that we promote an open and friendly environment that is never too busy to meet your needs. At Matco Services we value your business whether you are a large corporation or a small enterprise. We will provide you with the attention you need and deserve. We invite you to visit us and get to know our staff, and share in the learning experience.

Why Choose Matco Services? As one of the premier testing, inspection, and repair firms,  Matco Services is able to provide a unique and diverse blend of services. Thousands of investigations have been performed at Matco Services, ranging from jet engines and boiler tubes, to computer components and implants that have promoted the advanced understanding of why these components fail to meet expectations.  Combined with our new repair and retrofit capabilities for a variety of structure types we are now able to offer our clients a comprehensive array of services from project start, to project finish.  As always, projects are conducted discretely so that client confidentiality is ensured.