McWane Poles, among the McWane Inc. family of companies, last month marked the official opening of its newest ductile iron utility poles facility. Located in Provo, Utah, the new $18.5 million investment complements McWane’s existing presence in the area with its ductile iron pipe operation and marks the second facility dedicated to poles across the company’s growing footprint.
McWane’s patented manufacturing process produces ductile iron utility poles with engineered strength, dimensional consistency and natural corrosion resistance. These poles are impervious to rot, insects and woodpeckers; are highly fire resistant; and can withstand significant wind loads in the most adverse conditions. The performance characteristics of McWane’s DI Poles has made them the product of choice for numerous utilities that are working to make their systems more resilient.
Ductile iron poles weigh about less than wood poles, requiring less energy and fuel to transport, thereby reducing carbon emissions and lowering transportation costs. Additionally, McWane ductile iron poles are made from approximately 96 percent recycled material and are 100 percent recyclable.
The new 54,000-sqaure-foot facility was constructed over a 21-month period and produces poles that vary in length between 30 and 110 feet with a cycle time for a baseline pole of less than 12 minutes.
According to McWane Poles Assistant General Manager, Chris Hutras, “We are thrilled to open our new facility alongside our ductile iron pipe plant, positioning our operation for long-term success while enhancing McWane’s presence as an economic engine in the Provo community.
Hutras added, “We greatly appreciate the support of the County Commission in helping us navigate this process. This multi-year project would not have been possible without the fortitude of many McWane team members in tandem with numerous civic and community leaders.”
