WOPAS

The significance of moisture content for the mechanical properties of wood is considerable and well-documented. The wood used by WOPAS is dried to a target moisture content of 14% before plastic coating. Increased strength is also achieved through the interaction between wood and plastic, where the PE plastic keeps the wood fibers in place when subjected to mechanical stress. Additionally, the PE plastic bridges the natural weaknesses of wood, such as knots and cracks.

The wood used by WOPAS is dried to a moisture content of approximately 14% before plastic coating, resulting in a lower density and weight for the pole, even accounting for the higher density of the plastic. The overall density is approximately 550 kg per m3, which is 20-25% lower compared to a traditional wooden pole (700 kg per m3). One advantage is that the weight remains constant and doesn't change after a period of heavy rainfall. Knowing the actual weight of each pole is particularly beneficial during helicopter installations. Additionally, we primarily use spruce for utility poles taller than 6 meters, which has about a 10% lower density than pine.

WOPAS RAW (not dried) for marine projects has a density of approximately 800 kg per m3.

Yes, that works fine. However, we recommend looking at brackets and clamps that encircle the pole. Penetrating fastening is a fully possible alternative and is often the most used method. In such cases, it's important to ensure proper sealing is achieved. Extensive testing has been conducted at NIBIO (Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research) using 3M sealant. The results were presented at the World Congress on Timber Engineering 2023. In WOPAS's various manuals for each product area, you will find more specific information regarding fastening.

We can manufacture round, conical, or square shapes. The most efficient for production and logistics is the cylindrical shape. This is the most common shape for marine piles, cattle posts and pole barns. However, for utility poles, the traditional tapered conical shape with an 8-10 mm reduction is most common. Standard dimensions for glulam timber are used for house foundations and beams.