Snow creep pressure on mast constructions

Abstract

In Norway snow-creep quite often causes damage on mast constructions on hillsides exposed to deep snow-cover. An extensive snow-creep measurement program has therefore been carried out for different constructions at NGI's snow and avalanche research station in Grasdalen during the period 1975 to 1990. Examples from power-line masts and ski-lift masts are shown to illustrate the snow-creep pressure problem. The aim of the research project is to be able to draw up guidelines for the design of masts in snow-creep exposed areas.