EPA OUTDOOR WIND LOAD CALCULATIONS

Effective Projected Area (EPA) The Effective Projected Area (EPA) of a fixture is equal to the area visible by the wind at a particular angle. All pole mounted fixtures and mounting hardware have EPA values/ratings. All poles have maximum weight and EPA capacities. To calculate the EPA of any particular fixture configuration simply add the EPA values of the fixture(s) and mounting bracket(s) to be mounted. The total EPA & weight mounted on any pole must not exceed the poles maximum rating for the wind zone in which it is located. Contact [P2] for assistance in identifying EPA ratings for existing poles.

EPA Example Calculation Existing Pole: 25, 5 Square Steel Pole Pole EPA Rating = [70 mph, 36.5], [80 mph, 26.0], [90 mph, 19.0], [100 mph, 14.0], [120 mph, 8.0] Proposed Fixtures: (2) EST fixtures with an EPA of 2.48 and (2) BO8 bolt on arms with an EPA of 0.3 Calculation: [2 x 2.48] + [2 x 0.3] = 5.56 < 8.0 This configuration is suitable for wind zones up to 120 mph.

Wind Velocity Map

Annual Extreme Wind Velocity 30 Above Ground, 50-year Recurrence Interval

By Sam Bernal, DTKG

Note: The wind map is intended for general guidelines only. Consult your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and municipal engineering standards to determine the exact wind loading requirements for your application.