Discussion on “foundations for transmission line towers and tower erection” (Walls, Leeper, Mitchell, Downing, Connery), and “four years' operating experience on a high-tension transmission line” (Bang), Deer Park, Md., June 29, 1915. (see proceedings for June and July, 1915)

R. J. McClelland: As a large part of the transmission line tower failures in the past have been due to weakness in the foundations or footings, rather than in the towers themselves, the topic under discussion is a pertinent one. Lack of complete information on the behavior of tower foundations in different soils has doubtless been largely responsible for such unsuitable designs and methods as have been employed, and transmission line engineers have come to an appreciation of the need of thorough acquaintance with the soil conditions with which they have to deal in any given case. This has led to making not only test pits along the route, but to conducting tests on sample foundations in place at different points.