Understanding Crossarm Testing

A variety of crossarm technologies exist for use in electric utility systems. The NESC [8] requires crossarms meet a specified mechanical load. Many utility procurement specifications require other types of tests including electrical and environmental tests. This paper condenses information presented in [6] and will help electric utility engineers better understand how popular mechanical, electrical and environmental tests are performed and how to interpret the results. The paper includes a discussion of the methods and interpretation of test results for various mechanical and electrical tests for the assembled arm, as well as corrosion and accelerated weathering tests.