TREATING TIMBER POLES

Eco-FriendlyWooden PolesForestryInternational TradeTechnology

Oct 29

R&B Timber Group is a timber business that harvests, processes and pressure treats wooden poles for the domestic and international markets. The company has grown considerably over the years to the extent that we now own two treating plants, situated in Harding and Richmond, in the province of KwaZulu- Natal. While chemical treatments add to the cost of the timber, they can significantly increase its lifetime. When used in environments in which there are known biological hazards, it is cost-effective to specify treated timber and expect a longer service life or a lower cost maintenance schedule.

Types of Timber Treatment

Creosote Treatment: One of the most common ways to treat timber is through the Creosote Treatment Process. Coal-tar creosote is valued in its toxicity towards fungi, insects and marine borer as well as its natural water repellant quality. It is commonly used to preserve and waterproof cross arms, pilings, telephone poles, transmission poles, marine pilings and fence posts. This is done using the "full-cell process" or "empty cell process".

Copper Chrome Arsenate Treatment: Copper chrome arsenate (CCA) treated poles are timber that has been preserved with a substance containing copper, chromium and arsenic. This specifically prolongs the life of wooden poles that need to stand the test of time. This treatment method has been safely used for over 60 years having been invented in 1993.

CCA treated poles have gained popularity due its low conductivity, low corrosion and combustibility resistance. This is both a cost effective and environmentally friendly method of treating poles as it prolongs the life of the pole, has no offensive odour and will not contaminate the soil surrounding the treated pole. Both of the above methods are available at the R&B Timber Group.

All R&B Timber Group products meet the relevant SABS specification and ISO9001 standards, against pest, insect & fungal infestation. This ensures that you receive only the highest quality and professionalism for your treated poles.