Project case study

Pylon design competition

Utilities and infrastructure

Challenging the norm

  • “Leaf” concept works in harmony with natural landscape
  • Resists wind loads due to column and oval shape
  • Easily maintained through shape and access ladders
  • Protected against lightning and corrosion.
Client

RIBA

Department of Energy and Climate Change

National Grid

The challenge

The competition challenged the industry to come up with proposals for a new generation of electricity pylons that addresses the needs of communities whilst preserving the beauty of the countryside.

The existing 84 year old design was developed by Sir Reginald Blomfield and was iconic both for its time and the UK’s landscape. With more than 88,000 in the UK, the competition is focused on creating a lasting and sensitive legacy.

Our design

Drawing inspiration from the natural environment and using a degree of simplicity, the leaf concept works in harmony with the natural landscape. Structurally, the leaf resists applied wind loads due to the inherent stiffness of the cylindrical shape. It also allows for the use of other materials such as aluminium or carbon fibre.

Maintenance

Maintenance is easy through access ladders which provide greater safety and security against elements than the current design. Wind loads are transferred down via the piled foundation and resist compression and tension forces, while being individual to local soil conditions.

Lightning protection

Lightning protection is also assured through the use of 35 degree earth wires and the shape of the structure which gives good electrical separation. Horizontal units provide a streamlined profile and insulate to prevent flashover.