A N X I 05.

3 %5 = 0724150 0524630 5 4 6 a~

1 ANSI 05.3-1995

f o r Wood Products -
Solid Sawn-Wood Crossarms and Braces

- American National Standards Institute

I7 West 42nd Street
New York, New York
70036
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ANSI@
05.3-1 995
Revision of ANSI 05.3-1989

American National Standard

for Wood Products -

Solid Sawn-Wood Crossarms and Braces -

Specifications and Dimensions

Secretariat
Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions

Approved August 24, 1995

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

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American Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the
requirements for due process, consensus, and other criteria for approval have
National been met by the standards developer.
Standard Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of Standards
Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly and materially
affected interests. Substantial agreement means much more than a simple
majority, but not necessarily unanimity. Consensus requires that all views and
objections be considered, and that a concerted effort be made toward their
resolution.

The use of American National Standards is completely voluntary; their existence

does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether he has approved the
standards or not, from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products,
processes, or procedures not conforming to the standards.

The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards and will in
no circumstances give an interpretation of any American National Standard.
Moreover, no person shall have the right or authority to issue an interpretation of
an American National Standard in the name of the American National Standards
Institute. Requests for interpretations should be addressed to the secretariat or
sponsor whose name appears on the title page of this standard.

CAUTION NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or

withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards
Institute require that action be taken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw
this standard. Purchasers of American National Standards may receive current
information on all standards by calling or writing the American National Standards
Institute.

Published by

American National Standards Institute

11 West 42nd Street, New York, New York 10036

Copyright O1995 by American National Standards Institute

All rights reserved.
No pari of this publication may be reproduced in any
form, in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise,
without prior written permission of the publisher.

Printed in the United States of America

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Contents
Page
...
Foreword ................................................................................................ .I ii

Part 1: General requirements

1 Scope and organization ....................................................................... 1
2 Normative references .......................................................................... 1
3 Definitions ........................................................................................... 2
4 Marking ............................................................................................... 5
5 Treatment ............................................................................................ 6
6 Storage ............................................................................................... 6
7 Quality control ..................................................................................... 6
8 Rejection ............................................................................................. 6
9 Consumer information sheets (CIS) ...................................................... 6
Part II: Douglas-Fir: Specifications for crossarms and braces
10 Scope of part II ................................................................................ 10
11 Options and limitations (requirements) .............................................. 10
12 Material requirements ...................................................................... 11
13 Manufacturing requirements ............................................................. 13
14 Seasoning ....................................................................................... 15
15 Designated fiber stress ..................................................................... 15
Part 111: Dense southern pine: Specifications for crossarms
16 Scope of part III ............................................................................... 18
17 Options and limitations (requirements) .............................................. 18
18 Manufacturing requirements ............................................................. 18
19 Limitations ....................................................................................... 20
20 Seasoning ....................................................................................... 21
Tables
1 Douglas-fir knot-size limitations for communication and
power crossarms .............................................................................. 12
2 Douglas-fir knot and wane limitations for heavy-duty
crossarms ............................................................................................ 14
3 Douglas-fir knot-size limitations for heavy-duty braces ...................... 14
4 Knot-size limitations in southern pine crossarms ............................... 19
Figures
1 Features observed during grading ...................................................... 2
2 Crossarm sections ............................................................................. 4

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Page
Consumer information sheet on creosote pressure-
treated wood ...................................................................................... 7
Consumer information sheet on pentachlorophenol pressure-
treated wood ...................................................................................... 8
Consumer information sheet on inorganic arsenical
pressure-treated wood ....................................................................... 9
Knot limitations in heavy-duty crossarms (side view of central section) ...13
Recommended dimensions for crossarms with arms having
2. 4. 6. and 8 pin holes ..................................................................... 16
Sample of specification prepared by user .......................................... 17
Crossarm edges ............................................................................... 17
Annexes
A Grading rules for southern pine crossarm stock ................................. 22
B Test setup for evaluation of crossarm bending MOR .......................... 23
C Adjusting test results to obtain fiber stress ........................................ 25
D Bibliography .................................................................................... 26

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Foreword (This foreword is not part of American National Standard 05.3-1995.)

The purpose of this American National Standard i s t o establish, under

guidance provided by lumber manufacturers, producers, technical organi-
zations, and users, national specifications for solid sawn-wood crossarms
and braces used to support power and communication lines.
This specification is intended for use b y the producer and to guide the pur-
chaser in specifying and procuring adequately manufactured and suitably
treated crossarms and braces.
Suggestions for improvement of t h i s standard will b e welcome. They
should be sent to the Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions,
1200 G Street, NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005.
This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by
Accredited Standards Committee 0 5 o n Specifications for Wood Poles.
Committee approval of the standard does not necessarily imply that ali
committee members voted for its approval. At the time it processed and
approved this standard, Accredited Standards Committee 0 5 had the fol-
lowing members:

Russel C. Moody, Chairman

Alvin Lai, Secretary

Organization Represented Name of Representative

Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions ...........Ed Gurney
Jonathan L. Shaw
Joel D. Sullivan
American Institute of Timber Construction.......................... Bruce D. Pooley
Stephen F. Smith (Alt.)
American Plywood Association .......................................... Kenneth R. Andreason (Alt.)
American Wood Preservers Association............................. James McGougin
Chuck Stoddard
Robert Patterson
Les Lonning (Alt.)
American Wood Preservers Association. ............................ John N. Kressbach
American Wood Preservers Institute .................................. Robert Gooding
H. Errol Shaw
ASTM Committee D7 ......................................................... Robert D. Arsenault
Bohannan.......................................................................... Bill Bohannan
Brooks Manufacturing Company ........................................ Gary D. Smith
Canadian Electrical Association ......................................... Dave Chetwynd
Commercial Inspection Companies .................................... E.D. Williams
Joe Cole (Alt.)
Edison Electric Institute/Electric Light and Power ...............F. David Swing, Jr.
M.C. Mingoia (Alt.)
Electricity Association........................................................ Dan Price
Engineering Data Management. ......................................... Jozsef Bodig
Freas, A.O. ....................................................................... A.D. Freas
Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers...................Nelson G. Bingel, III
Robert O. Kluge
Robert C. Peters
John Hipke (Alt.)
Intec Services ................................................................... Marvin C. Hodgson
Mississippi Forest Prod Lab ............................................... H. Michael Barnes
National Association of Regulatory Utilities ........................ Robert S. Cullen
NW Pole & Piling Ship Association..................................... John Sears
Oregon State University..................................................... Jeffrey J. Morreli
James Wilson (Alt.)
Rocky Mountain Pole & Treatment Association ..................Richard Leinfelder
Reid Tinling (Alt.)
Rural Electrification Administration .................................... H. Robert Lash

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Organization Represented Name of Representative

Southern Pressure Treatment Association ......................... Karl Boatright
Bennie Evans
James L. Steyaart
St. University College-Forestry-Syracuse ........................... Robert Meyer
TRUS Joist MacMillan ....................................................... Sherman Nelson
Bruce Craig (Alt.)
U.S. Crossarm Manufacturers Association ......................... B.W. Atchley
U.S. Department of Agriculture .......................................... Russell C. Moody
Ron Wolfe (Alt.)
Borjen Yeh
U.S. Department of Energy ................................................ Mark Newbill
West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau .............................. Donald A. Devisser
Western Area Power Administration ................................... Gerald Paulson
Karen Rowe (Alt.)
Western Red Cedar Association ........................................ Jim B. Comerford
James E. Eastman
Western Wood Preservers Institute .................................... Stephen D. Browning
John Sears (Alt.)
Willamette Industries ......................................................... Wayne Tjoelker
Jon Howard (Alt.)

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AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD ANSI 05.3-1995

American National Standard

for Wood Products -

Solid Sawn-Wood Crossarms and Braces -

Specifications and Dimensions

Part I
General requirements

1 Scope and organization

1.1 Scope
This standard consists of specifications covering solid sawn-wood crossarms and braces manufactured
from coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii - variety rnenziesii) grown in the West Coast region, ¡.e.,
from the summit area of the Cascade Mountains of Washington and Oregon and from California; and
from dense Southern pine of the following species: longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), shortleaf pine (Pinus
echinata), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), and slash pine (finus ellioffii).The specifications are intended to
cover communications crossarms, power crossarms, heavy-duty crossarms, and heavy-duty braces.
Crossarms are intended primarily for use as beams. Heavy-duty crossarms may also be used as struts or
columns in braced H-frames. Braces are used for tension, compression-bracing, or both.
1.2 General organization of the standard
This standard is divided into three parts:
(1) Part I: General requirements and options that are applicable to all crossarms and braces covered
in this standard are specified in Part I;
(2) Part II: Specific requirements and options relating to crossarms and braces manufactured from
Douglas-fir are specified in Part II;
(3) Part 111: Specific requirements and options relating to crossarms and braces manufactured from
dense Southern pine are specified in Part 111.
2 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this American National Standard. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All
standards are subject to revision, and parties to agreements based on this American National Standard
are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the standards
indicated below.
ASTM D9-87, Standard terminology relating to wood’)
ASTM D198-84, Standard methods of static tests of timber - Structural sizes’)
ASTM D2915-90, Standard practices for evaluating allowable properties for grades of structural lumber‘)
AW PA (2-25-92, Sawn crossarms - Preservative treatment by pressure processe8
AWPA M-6-93, Brands used on forest products2)
SPIB, Grading Rules: Southern Pine Inspection Bureau; 19913)
WCLIB, Standard Grading Rules No. 17: West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau; 19934)
-
’) Available from ASTM, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
*) Available from American Wood Preservers Association, P.O. Box 286, Woodstock, MD 21163.
3, Available from Southern Pine Inspection Bureau, 4709 Scenic Highway, Pensacola, FL.
4,
Available from West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau, P.O. Box 23145, Portland, OR 97223.
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A N S I 0 5 - 3 95 0724150 0524638 8 7 7 W

ANSI 05.3-1995

MEASURE AVERAGE DEPTH

f

(a) Rate of Growth (b) Check

(c) Shake (d) Split

Figure 1 - Features observed during grading

3 Definitions
The following definitions are essentially in agreement with those given in ASTM D9-87, WCLIB Standard
Grading Rules No. 17, or SPIB Grading Rules, and shall apply to the terms used in this standard.
3.1 brashness: Commonly, the tendency of ?he wood to fail suddenly under stress, and to break at
relatively small deflection across the grain, with little or no splintering. It is also called brittleness. Possible
causes of brashness include heat degradation or the presence of decay. Three characteristics indicative
of the brashness of a piece are:
a) Exceptionally low specific gravity or weight, as compared to average weight for its species;
b) An especially small proportional amount of latewood;
c) Fibers with thin walls.
3.2 check: Lengthwise grain separation, usually occurring across or through the growth rings, as a
result of seasoning. This is shown in figure 1.
3.3 close grain grade: A Douglas-fir grade (WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, paragraph 204-b)
requiring an average of approximately 6, but not more than approximately 30, annual growth rings per
inch on either one end or the other of a piece, measured as shown in figure 1, Rate of growth, as shown
in WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, paragraph 204-d. Pieces averaging 5 rings or more than 30
rings per inch are accepted as close grain if they average 1/3 or more summerwood.
3.4 compression failures: Localized buckling of fibers, produced by the compression of wood along
the grain beyond its ultimate capacity.

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ANSI 05.3-1995
3.5 compression wood: Abnormal wood growth that frequently occurs on the underside of leaning
coniferous trees. It is denser and harder than normal wood, and is characterized by relatively wide growth
rings, usually eccentric, and includes what appears to be an exceptional proportion of latewood. In
compression wood the contrast in color between earlywood and latewood is usually less than in normal
wood. Compression wood is low in strength for its weight and shrinks excessively along the grain
compared to normal wood.
3.6 crack A break or fracture across the grain of the wood.
3.7 crossgrain: Fibers in wood that are not parallel with the long axis of the piece.
3.8 decay: A disintegration of wood substance due to the action of wood-destroying fungi, resulting in
loss of strength. Also called dote or rot.
3.8.1 advanced (typical) decay: The older stage of decay in which the disintegration is readily
recognized because hardness and other strength properties are reduced. Decided discoloration or
bleaching of the rotted wood may be apparent. Unsound red heart is a typical example of advanced
decay.
3.8.2 firm red heart: A stage of incipient decay, characterized by a reddish color in the heartwood.
3.8.3 incipient decay: The early stage of decay in which the disintegration has not proceeded far
enough to soften the wood or to cause a perceptible reduction in hardness. Such strength properties as
toughness or impact strength are appreciably reduced in wood with incipient decay, but the damage is
not normally visible to the naked eye.
3.9 dense material grade: A Douglas-fir grade (WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, paragraph
204-c) requiring an average of approximately 6 or more annual growth rings per inch and, in addition, 1/3
or more summerwood on either one end or the other of a piece, measured as shown in figure 1, Rate of
growth, in WCLIB Standard Grading Rule No. 17, paragraph 204-d. The contrast in color between the
summerwood and springwood must be distinct. Pieces averaging less than 6 annual rings per inch but
not less than 4 are accepted as dense if averaging 112 or more summerwood.
3.10 density: Mass (weight) of wood per unit volume. Strength is related to density. Higher working
stresses can be assigned to wood when lightweight pieces are eliminated, by specifying limits for rate of
growth and minimum percentages of summerwood. See rate of growth. See close grain grade and dense
material grade for Douglas-fir. See annex A for Southern pine.
3.11 dote: See decay.
3.12 earlywood: That portion of the growth ring that is formed during the early part of the season’s
growth. It is usually less dense, lighter in color, and weaker mechanically than latewood. The term is
preferred to springwood.
3.13 equilibrium moisture content (EMC): See Moisture equilibrium.
3.14 heart center: The pith or center core of the tree. “Free of heart centers’’ (FOHC) means “without
pith” (side-cut).
3.15 heartwood: The inner portion of wood between the pith and the sapwood, composed entirely of
nonliving cells. It is usually darker in color and more durable than the sapwood. Heartwood and sapwood
are comparable in strength.
3.16 knot: A portion of a branch or limb that has become incorporated in a piece of lumber. The shape
of the knot depends on the angle through which the branch was cut. Least diameters determine the size
unless otherwise stated. Terms used to describe knots include:
3.16.1 decayed knot: A knot that is softer than the surrounding wood, containing advanced decay.
3.16.2 firm knot: A knot that is solid across its face, containing incipient decay.
3.16.3 fixed knot: A knot that will hold its place in dry lumber under ordinary conditions, but can be
moved by pressure, not easily pushed out.

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ANSI 05.3-1995

I I
r 1 1 I I 1
I TOP CENTER SECTION

SECTION SECTION
LOWER HALF LOWER CENTER SECTION I
BRACE BOLT HOLES
BRACE BOLT HOLES (INCLUDED IN CENTER SECTION)

Figure 2 - Crossarm sections

3.16.4 intergrown knot: A knot whose growth rings are partially or completely intergrown on one or
more faces with the growth rings of the surrounding wood.
3.16.5 knot cluster: Two or more knots grouped together as a unit with the fibers of the wood deflected
around the entire unit. A knot cluster is distinct from a group of single knots, in which each is a unit.
3.16.6 loose knot: A knot not held firmly in place by growth or position, that cannot be relied upon to
remain in place.
3.16.7 sound knot: A knot that is solid across its face, is as hard as the surrounding wood, and shows
no indications of decay. It may vary in color from the natural color of the wood to reddish brown or black.
3.16.8 spike knot: A knot cut lengthwise or diagonally through the long axis of the branch. In a
crossarm, the cross-sectional view of the knot appears on one surface of the arm, and the longitudinal
view appears on an adjacent surface. The size of a spike knot is considered to be the distance across the
end-grain of the knot, between the edge of the arm and a line parallel to the edge.
3.16.9 tight knot: A knot that is so fixed by growth, shape, or position that it will firmly retain its place in
the piece.
3.17 latewood: That portion of the annual growth ring that is formed during the latter part of the yearly
growth period. It is usually denser, darker in color, and stronger mechanically than earlywood. This term is
preferred to summerwood.
3.18 moisture equilibrium: Moisture content at which the wood is neither gaining nor losing moisture at
a given temperature and relative humidity. Also known as Equilibrium Moisture Content (€MC).
3.19 nail plate: A galvanized metal plate placed on the end-sutfaces to prevent split-widening.
3.20 pitch pocket: An opening between growth rings that usually contains, or has contained, resin.
3.21 pith: The small core in the structural center of a log. See heart center.
3.22 rate of growth: The amount of tree growth each year, expressed as the number of growth rings
per inch (see figure 1).
3.23 red heart: See decay.
3.24 rot: See decay.
3.25 sapwood: The outer portion of wood next to the bark, usually lighter in color than the heartwood,
and containing some living cells while the tree is alive. If left untreated, sapwood is as strong as
heartwood, but is not naturally durable.
3.26 sections: For ease of description, crossarms are divided into sections as shown in figure 2.

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ANSI 05.3-1995
3.27 shake: A lengthwise separation along the grain, the greater part of which occurs essentially
between, or through, the growth rings. This is shown in figure 1.
3.28 skip: An unsurfaced area on dressed lumber.
3.29 split: A lengthwise separation of the wood from one surface to the other. This is shown in figure 1.
3.30 springwood: See earlywood.
3.31 summerwood: See latewood.
3.32 wane: Bark, or the lack of wood from any cause, on the surface of lumber.
3.33 warp: Any variation from a true or plane surface, including bows, crooks, twists, cups, or any
combination thereof, as these terms are defined in WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph
752, and in SPIB Grading Rules, Paragraph 752.

4 Marking
4.1 All crossarms and braces shall be legibly and permanently marked or branded in characters 3/8 inch
or larger. Marking or branding shall not be deeper than 1/8 inch and shall be applied to a wide face.
NOTE - All crossarms shall be marked to indicate the top of the arm because greater defects are permitted on the
bottom than on the top. Upside-down installation may thus result in less strength. Also, rounded edges offer less
resistance to insulated wires that may be pulled over the crossarms during installation. (See 13.3(a) and 18.3 for
specifications.)
4.2 Markings or brandings shall include the following information:
a) Manufacturer's name or symbol;
b) Year of manufacture;
c) Wood species (see 4.2.1);
d) Preservative designation as indicated in AWPA Standard M-6-93 (see 4.2.2);
e) Preservative retention in pounds per cubic foot of preservative.
4.2.1 Species Designation
Desianation Species
DF Douglas-fir
SP Southern pine*
*The term "Southern pine" (SP) may be used to designate any of the dense pine species named in 1.1.
4.2.2 Preservative Designation
Desianation Preservative
C Creosote
N Copper Napthenate
PA Pentachlorophenol in petroleum (Type A)
PC Pentachlorophenol in light hydrocarbon solvent (Type C)
SB Ammoniacal Copper Arsenate (ACA)
sc Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA Type A)
SK Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA Type C)
sz Ammoniacal Copper Zinc Arsenate (ACZA)

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ANSI 05.3-1995

4.2.3 Example. (This information may be in some other form or order, if authorized by the purchaser.)
ABC Co. 86 (manufacturer and year of manufacture)
DF .6 PC (species, retention, and preservative)

5 Treatment
Crossarms and braces are normally treated with a wood preservative to provide protection against insect
attack and damage from decay. Suitable preservatives, conditioning and treating requirements, treatment
results, and methods for determining the results of treatment are described in AWPA Standard C-25-92,
and shall be specified as applicable on the purchase order, or the contract, or both. It is intended that
specific requirements for the treatment of crossarms and braces with preservative shall be selected from
this standard, or from other appropriate standards, and that the requirements shall be included in the
purchasing agreement.

6 Storage
6.1 Untreated crossarms and braces shall be stacked at least 12 inches above ground, using
preservative-treated stickers on preservative treated skids, in a well-drained area, to assure good
ventilation. The stacks should be protected from the sun and weather to minimize checking and physical
distortion. If inspected members are to be held in storage for more than 24 hours after they are fabricated
but before treatment, they shall be stored under cover. Untreated arms or braces shall be protected from
the weather if shipped in open rail cars or other open vehicles.
6.2 Treated crossarms and braces shall be stacked on skids in closed piles, preferably under cover.

7 Quality control
7.1 Inspection and determination of conformance- to requirements shall be performed by the
manufacturer at the place of manufacture. Inspection may also be performed by the purchaser (or
purchaser's representative) at the place of manufacture, the treating plant, or the delivery destination.
The supplier shall provide to the purchaser, or to the purchaser's representative, such access as is
reasonable and necessary to determine that the material conforms to all specified requirements, and
shall furnish all necessary apparatus, labor, and other facilities for making the tests called for without cost
to the purchaser.
7.2 Inspection by the purchaser or purchaser's representative, or waiving of inspection, shall in no way
relieve the supplier of the obligation to furnish material in accordance with all specified requirements.
7.3 Inspection for all lumber defects and approved tests for moisture content shall be made before
treatment. Reinspection may be made at the discretion of the purchaser or purchaser's representative
following preservative treatment.

8 Rejection
Crossarms and braces determined not to be in accordance with specified requirements shall be rejected.

9 Consumer Information Sheets (CIS)

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the wood preserving industry entered into an
agreement in 1985 to assure the continued use and availability of pressure-treated wood products. One
part of that agreement was that the industry would undertake a nationwide voluntary consumer
awareness program to educate users of pressure-treated wood about the proper use, handling, and
disposal of treated wood products.
It is recommended that the attention of users of pressure-treated wood products be directed to EPA-
approved Consumer Information Sheets (CIS) (some are reproduced in figures 3-5)so that they are
informed as to the proper use, handling, and disposal of these products.
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Consumer Informaion Sheet
CREOSOTE
PRESSURE=- WOOD
CONSUMER INI;ORMATION
This wood has been preserved by pressure treatment
with an EPA-registered pesticide containing creosote to
protect it from insect attack and decay. Wood treated
with creosote should be used only where such protec.
tion is important.
Creosote penetrates deeply into and remains in the
pressure-treated wood for a long time. Exposure to cre-
osote may present certain hazards. Therefore, the folioW.
ing precautions should be taken both when handling the
treated wood and in determining where to use the
treated wood.
Wood treated with creosote should not be used where
it wiil be in frequent or prolonged contact with bare skin
(for example. chairs and other outdoor hirniture) unless
aii eíEctive sealer has been applied.
Creosote-treatedwood should not be used in residen-
tial interiors.Creosote-treatedwood in interiors of indus-
trial buildings should be used only for industrial building
components which are in ground contact and are subject
to decay o c insect infestation and wood block flooring.
For such uses, two coats d a n appropriate sealer must be
applied. Sealers may be applied at the installation site.
Wood treated with creosote should not be used in thc
interiors of farm buildings where there may be direct
contact with domestic animals or livestock which may
crib (bite) or lick the wood.
In interiors of farm buildings where domestic animals
or livestock are unlikely to crib (bite) or lick the wood.
creosote-treatedwood may be used for building compo-
nents which are in ground contact and are subject to
decay or insect infestation if two coats of an effective
sealer are applied. Sealers may be applied at the installa-
tion site.
Do not use creosote-treated wood for farrwing or
brooding facilities.
Do not use treated wood under circumstanres where
the preservative may become a component of food or
animal feed. Examples of such use would be structures or
containers for storing silage or food.
Do not use treated wood for cuttingboards or Counter-
tops.
Approxd by the US. Environmental Protection Agency
Figure 3 - Consumer Information Sheet on creosote pressure-treated wood
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ANSI 05.3-1995
Only treated wood that is visibly clean and free of
surface residues should be used for patios. decks and
walkways.
Po not use treated wood for construction of those
portions of beehives which may come into contact with
the honey
Creosote-treated wood should not be used where it
may come into direct or indirect contact with public
drinking water. except for uses involving incidental con-
tact such as docks and bridges.
Do not use creosote-treatedwood where it may come
into direct or indirect contact with drinking water for
domestic animals or livestock, except for uses involving
incidental contact such as docks and bridges.
Dispose of treated wood by ordinary trash collection
or burial Treated wood 5hOUld not be burned in open
fires or in stoves. fireplaces. or residential boilers. h e
cause toxic chemicals niay !x prtduïed as part of the
smoke and ashes Treated wood from commercial or
industrial use ( e g . construction sites) may hc burned
only in cornmercial or industrial incinerators or Iwilcrs
in accordince with state rind Fcdcrril rcpulations
Avoid frcquent or prolonged inhahtion (fi uwdust
from treated wood. When sawing and machining trwted
wood. wear a dust mask. Whenever possible. thcscoperu.
tions should he performed outdoors to avoid indoor
accumulations of airborne sawdust from treated wtwd
Avoid frequent or prolonged skin contact with ECC-
osotetreated wood: when handling the treated w c ~ d .
wear Iong-sleeved shirts and long pants and use gloves
impervious to the chemicals (for example,gloves that are
vinyl-coated ).
When power-sawingand machining. wear goggks to
protect eyes from flying particles.
After working with the wood. and before eating drink-
ing, and use of tobacco products, wash exposed areas
thoroughly
if oily preservativesor sawdust accumulateon clothcs.
launder before reuse. Wash work clothes separately from
other household clothing.
Coal tar pitch and coal tar pitch emulsion are effective
sealers for creosote-treated wood-block flooring.
Urethane. epoxy. and shellac are acceptable sealersforail
creosote-treatedwood
0l~5
7
 ANSI 0 5 - 3 95 0724350 0524644 070
ANSI 05.3-1995
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
PRESSURE-TREATEDWOOD
CONSUMER INFORMATION
This wood has been preserved by pressure-treatment
with an €PA-registered pesticide containing penta-
chlorophenol to protect it from insect attack and decay
Wood treated with pentachlorophenol should be uscd
only where such protection is important
kntachlorophenol penetrates deeply into and remains
in the pressure-treated wood for a long time. Exposure to
pentachlorophenol may present certain hazards There-
fore. the following precautions should be taken both
when handling the treated wood and i n determining
where to use and dispose of the treated wood.
USE SITE PñECAUTIONS
Logs treated with pentachlorophenol 4iould not he
used for log homes
Wood treated with pentachlorophenol should not he
used where it will be in frequent or prolonged contact
with bare skin (for example. chairs and other outdoor
furniture ì. unless an elfective sealer has been applied
Pentachlorophenol-treated wood should not be used
in residential. industrial, or commercial interiors except
for laminated beams or for building components which
are in ground contact and are subject to decay or insect
infestation and where two coats of an appropriate sealer
are applied Sealers may be applied at the installationsite
Wood treated with pentachlorophenol should not be
used in the interiors of farm buildings where there may
be direct contact with domestic animals or livestock
which may crib (bite) or lick the wood.
In interiors of farm buildings where domestic animals
or livestock are unlikely to crib (bite) or lick the wood.
pentachlorophenol-treatedwood may be used for build-
ing components which are in ground contact and are
subject to decay or insect infestation and where two
coats of an appropriate sealer are applied.Sealers may be
applied at the installation site.
Do not use pentachlorophenol-treated wood for far-
rowing or brooding facilities.
Do not use treated wood under circumstances where
the preservative may become a component of food or
animal feed. Examples of such sites would be structures
or containers for storing silage or food.
Do not use treated wood for cutting-boardsor counter-
tops.
,qproipd by the US. Eizvironnzmtal Protection Agency
Figure 4 - Consumer Information Sheet on pentachlorophenol pressure-treated wood
8
COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute
Licensed by Information Handling Services
Only treated wood that is visibly clean and free of
surface residue should be used for patios, decks and
walkways
Do not use treated wood for construction of those
portions of beehives which may come into contact with
the honey
Rntachlorophenol-treated wood should not be used
where it may come into direct or indirect contact with
public drinking water. except for uses involving inciden-
tal contact such as docks and bridges.
Do not use pentachlorophenol-treated wood where it
ma! come into direct or indirect contact with drinking
water for domestic animals or livestock, except for uses
involving incidental contact such as docks and bridges.
Dispose of treated wood by ordinary trash collection
or burial. Treated wood should not be burned in open
fires or in stoves.fireplaces.or residential boilers because
toxic chemicals ma). be produced as part of the smoke
and ashes. Treated wood from commercial or industrial
use ( e g . construction sites) may be burned only in
commercial or industrial incinerators or boilers rated at
20 million BTL.'!hour or greater heat input or its equiv-
alent in accordance with state and Federal regulations.
Avoid frequent or prolonged inhalation of sawdust
from treated wood When sawing and machining treated
wood. wear a dust mask Whenever possible. these opera-
tions should be performed outdoors to avoid indoor
accumulations of airborne sawdust from treated wood.
Avoid frequent or prolonged skin contact with penta-
chlorophenol-treated wood; when handling the treated
wood. wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and use
gloves impervious to the chemicals (for example. gloves
that are vinyl-coated).
When power-sawingand machining, wear goggles to
protect v e s from flying particles.
After working with the wood, and before eating,drink-
ing, and use of tobacco products, wash exposed areas
thoroughly.
if oily preservatives or sawdust accumulate on clothes,
launder before reuse. Wash work clothes separately from
other household clothing.
Urethane, shdlac, latex epoxy enamel and varnish are
acceptable sealers for pentachlorophenol-treated wood.
8 t 81
 A N S I 05.3 95 M 0724350 0524b4-5 T O 7 M

ANSI 05.3-1995

Consumer infonuuiorz Sheet

INORGAMC ARSENICAL
PRESSURE-TREATED WOOD
(Including: CCA. ACA. and ACZA )

CONSUMER INFORMATION
This wood has been presened by pressuwtreatmcnt
with an EPA-registered pesticide containing inorganic
arsenic to protect it from insect attack and decay. Wood
treated with inorganic arsenic should be used only where
such protection is important.
Inorganic arsenic penetrates deeply into and remains
in the pressure.treated wood for a long time Exposure to
inorganic arsenic may present certain hazards There-
fore, the following precautions should be taken both
when handling the treated wood and in determining
where to use or dispose of the treated wood.
Wood pressuretrcated with uaterborne arsenical prc-
servatives may be used inside residences as long as all
sawdust and construction debris are cleaned up and
disposed of after construction.
Do not use treated wood under circumstances where
the preservative may become a component of food or
animai feed. Examples of such sites would be structures
or containers for storing silage or food.
Do not use treated wood for cutting-boardsor counter-
tops.
Only treated wood that is visibly clean and free of
surface residue should be used for patios, decks and
walkways.
Do not use treated wood for construction of those
portions of beehives which may come into contact with
the honey
Treated wood should not be used where it may come
into direct or indirect contact with publicdrinkingwater.
except for uses involving incidental contact such as
docks and bridges.
Dispose of treated wood by ordinary trash collecticn
or burial. Treated wood should not be burned in open
firesor in stoves.fireplaces.or residential boilers because
toxic chemicals may be produced as part of the smoke
and ashes Treated wood from commercial or industrial
use ( e g . construction sites) may be burned only in
commercial or industrial incineratorsor boilers in accor-
dance with state and Federal regulations.
Avoid frequent or prolonged inhalation of sawdust
from treated wood. When sawing and machining treated
wood, wear a dust mask. Whenever possible,these opera.
tions should be performed outdoors to avoid indoor
accumulations of airborne sawdust from treated wood.
When power.sawing and machining wear godes to
protect eyes from flying particles.
After working with the wood,and before eating,drink-
ing, and use of tobacco products, wash exposed areas
thoroughly.
If preservatives or sawdust accumulate on clothes.
launder before reuse. Wash work clothes separately from
other household clothing.

Approtled by the U.S.Environiwntal Protectiou Agency 9\85

Figure 5 - Consumer Information Sheet on inorganic arsenical pressure-treated wood

COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute

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 ~~

ANSI 0 5 - 3 95 0724350 052464b 9 4 3

ANSI 05.3-1995

Part II
Douglas-fir:
Specifications for crossarms and braces
10 Scope of Part II
This part of the standard consists of specifications for the material and manufacture of Douglas-fir wood
crossarms and braces.
11 Options and limitations (requirements)
Attention is directed to both options and limitations (requirements) in the specifications for crossarms and
braces of Douglas-fir. When there are options, selection should be made by the purchaser from those
available, and should be specified by the purchaser.
Depending on use, specifications on limiting characteristics for crossarm types, with minimum cross-
section dimensions as noted, are covered in the following subclauses of the standard:
Crossarm Tvoe Subclause
All types - 12; 12.1-12.2

Communication minimum
crossarms 3-1/4 inches x 4-1/4 inches 12.3

Power minimum
crossarms 3-1/4 inches x 4-1/4 inches 12.4

Heavy-duty either dimension exceeds

crossarms 5-3/4 inches and the sum of adjacent 12.5
faces exceeds 9-1f2inches

Heavy-duty minimum
braces 2-314 inches x 12.6
3-3/4 inches

Options may be found in the following:

Portion of
ODtion Standard
Cross-section dimension
and length 13.2
Incising and depth 13.4
Marking 4
Drilling 13.2
Treatment and preservative 5
Maximum moisture content 12.2 & 14
Seasoning method 14
Other manufacturing requirements are covered in clause 13.

10
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 A N S I 05.3 95 9 0724350 0524b47 BAT 9

ANSI 05.3-1995

12 Material requirements
The lumber used shall be of coastal Douglas-fir (fseuúotsuga menziesii - variety menziesii) grown in the
West Coast region from the summit area of the Cascade Mountains of Washington and Oregon, and
from California. It shall conform to the limitations detailed in this clause for the specific uses. West Coast
Lumber Inspection Bureau (WCLIB) Standard Grading Rules No. 17 shall govern in all cases where
specific limitations are not stated. Paragraphs from the grading rules are listed under use categories.
12.1 Prohibited defects
The following defects are prohibited:
a) Compression wood;
b) Compression failure;
c) Advanced decay;
d) Insect damage’);
e) Knot clusters;
f) Low density or brashness;
g) Shakes.
12.2 Seasoning
This is covered in clause 14.
Moisture content, maximum: 22%.
Moisture gradient, maximum: 5% from center to surface.
12.3 Communication crossarms
Limitations shall conform to those specified in WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 170a,
except as noted:
a) Knots - as indicated in table 1;
b) Warp, including bow, cup, crook, and twist, shall be limited to Medium, as defined in WCLIB
Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 752, but not in two directions;
c) Splits - not permitted;
d) Checks - On properly seasoned arms, single face checks shall not exceed an average penetration
of 1/4 the depth from any face and are limited to 10 inches long on the top face, and 1/3 the arm
length on the other faces. Checks shall not be repeated in the same line of grain in adjacent pin holes.
The sum of the average depths of checks occurring in the same plane on opposite faces shall b e
limited to 1/4 the face depth.
12.4 Power crossarms and communication dead end crossarms
Limitations shall conform to those specified in WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 170a,
except as noted:
a) Knots - as indicated in table 1;
b) Warp, including bow, cup, crook, and twist, shall be limited to Medium, as defined in WCLIB
Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 752, but not in two directions;
c) Splits - not permitted;
d) Checks - Refer to 12.3(d).

-
5, Except as permitted in Paragraph 170 of WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17.
11

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 A N S I 0 5 - 3 95 072Y150 052YbYB 716 =
ANSI 05.3-1 995

-
Table 1 Douglas-fir knot-size limitations for communication and power
crossarms (not to exceed 12 feet) (neither face to exceed 5-3/4 inches and

- Knot Diameter (in)

Average
Class of Knot and Location Ciose grain3) Dense Material3)
Round knots’)
Single knot, maximum diameter
Center Section
Top half 314 1
Lower half 1 1-114
End sections 1-114 1-112

Sum of diameters in a 6-inch

length, maximum
Center section
Top half 1-112 2
Lower half 2 2-112
End sections 2-112 3

Knots intersecting pinholes, max.

Center section 518 518
End sections 1 1

Loose knots or knot holes2)

Center section
Top half Not greater than half the
dimensions of round knots
given above

Lower half Not greater than dimensions

for round knots given above
Spike knots or spike knot cavitites
Top face Not over 314 inch
wide or 318 inch deep

Elsewhere Shall be graded as equivalent

displacement of the structural
wood per round knot data
above
NOTES
1 The average diameters above shall be used where a knot shows on two faces. Where
a knot shows on one face only, the diameters can be increased 25%.
2 Loose knots and knot holes shall drain water.
3 See clause 3 for requirements of close grain grade and dense material grade for
selection of knot size limits.

12
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 ANSI 0 5 . 3 95 0724150 0524649 652

ANSI 05.3-1995

(SEE NOTE 1)
LI 1 8 in I 1
-18 in
I --
I Q Q

\
(SEE NOTE 2) \POLE MOUNTING HOLE
NOTES:
(1) No knot shall excccd 1 inch in dianictcr in thcsc two scctions.
(2) No knot in this scction shall exceed 3/4 inch in diarrictcr.

Figure 6 - Knot limitations in heavy-duty crossarms (side view of central section)

12.5 Heavy-duty transmission crossarms
Limitations shall conform to those specified in WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 169a,
except as noted:
a) Knots - as indicated in table 2;
b) Warp, including bow, cup, crook, and twist; shall be limited to Medium, as defined in WCLIB
Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 752, but not in two directions;
c) Splits - very short;
d) Checks - Single or opposite each other, with a sum total equal to approximately 1/4 the thickness.
12.6 Heavy-duty braces
Limitations shall conform to those specified in WCLIB Standard Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 169a,
except as noted:
a) Warp, including bow, cup, crook, and twist, shall be limited to Medium, as defined in WCLIB
Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 752, but not in two directions;
b) Knots - as indicated in table 3;
c) The slope of the grain shall be no more than 1 in 15, exclusive of normal deviation around knots;
d) Splits - very short;
e) Checks - Refer to 12.5(d).
12.7 Knot-size limitations
12.7.1 For heavy-duty crossarm sizes not listed in table 2, knot-size limitations are listed in WCLIB
Grading Rules No. 17, Paragraph 169a.
12.7.2 No knot shall be closer than its own diameter to the pole-mounting holes.
12.7.3 The maximum knot-hole size permitted shall be: 1/2-inch holes in widths of 4 inches to 8 inches;
and 3/4-inch holes in widths of 8 inches and wider.
12.7.4 No knot shall exceed 1 inch in diameter in the two upper-center sections, as shown in figure 6.

13 Manufacturing requirements
13.1 Workmanship
All crossarms and braces shall be of first-quality workmanship, as described in WCLIB Grading Rules No.
17, Paragraph 722, Standard “ E manufacture. Crossarms and braces shall be dressed on four sides,
although medium skips on one side are permissible. Splintering around holes resulting from bits breaking
through shall be kept to a minimum.
13
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 A N S I 05.3 95 = 072i.1350 0524b50 37i.1 H

ANSI 05.3-1995

Table 2 - Douglas-fir knot and wane limitations for heavy-duty crossarms

Maximum knot size (in)

Wide facc Two Sides)

Crossarm size Narrow face Wane

(in) (Top and Bottoms) Edge Along centerline (in)
2-518 x 7-112 518 1-318 1-718 112
2-518 x 9-112 518 1-314 2-114 518

3-518 x 7-112 314 1-318 i -718 112

3-518 x 8-112 314 1-314 2- 1I4 518

3-518 x 9-112 314 1-314 2- 1I4 518

3-518 x 1 1 -112 314 2 2- 112 314

4-518 x 5-112 1 1-114 1-114 318

5-112 x 7-112 1-114 1-318 1-718 112

Table 3 - Douglas-fir knot-size limitations for heavy-duty braces

Specific brace sizes

Maximum knot diameter

General brace sizes

Brace Brace Maximum

cross-section Narrow Wide cross-section knot diameter
(in) face face íinì íinì
2-314 x 3134 112 314 2to3 112

3-318 x 4-318 314 1 3-118 to 4 314

3-318 x 5-318 314 1-114 4-118 to 5 1
3-314 x 5-314 314 1-114 5-118 to 6 1-114

3-518 x 7-112 314 1-112 6-118 to 8 1-112

3-518 x 9-112 314 1-314 8-110 to 10 1-314

14

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 A N S I 0 5 . 3 95 0724150 0524b5L 200

ANSI 05.3-1995

13.2 Dimensions, drilling details, and tolerances

The dimensions and drilling details of crossarms or braces shall conform to specifications or drawings
supplied by the purchaser. If tolerances for all dimensions and drilling details are not otherwise specified,
they shall be in accordance with the drawings and associated tables of figure 7. Figure 8 shows a sample
drawing demonstrating important features that should be specified to a manufacturer.
13.3 Edges
Edges in crossarms and braces shall be eased as follows:
a) Crossarm Edges: The top of the brand (on the side surface) shall be oriented to the top of the arm
(see 4.1). The edges shall be as shown in figure 9.
NOTE - Rounded edges on tops of arms serve two purposes. First, they indicate the top of the ann to the
inspectors and linemen. This is necessary because greater defects are permitted on the bottom than on the top.
Upside-down installation may thus result in lower effective strength. Second, a rounded edge, as shown, offers a
minimum of resistance to insulated wires that may be pulled over the croscarm during erection.
b) Brace Edges: All brace edges shall be eased with a minimum radius of 1/8 inch.
13.4 Incising
Incising is of value as a means of reducing severe checking, since the incisions may relieve some
circumferential stresses. During treatment, incisions provide additional paths for preservative flow, thereby
improving treatment.
Incisions shall be reasonably clean-cut and their spacing pattern and depth shall be such as to assure
uniform penetration of the preservative to the required depth throughout the incised surfaces.
The recommended minimum depth of incisions is one-quarter inch on all faces. Deeper incisions will
assure deeper penetration but may possibly damage crossarms. However, there may be times when
deeper penetration and maximum retentions and the resultant longer life will be considered more
important than maximum strength.

14 Seasoning
14.1 All solid sawn crossarms or braces shall be manufactured from lumber that has been kiln-dried or
air-seasoned to a moisture content not to exceed 22%.
14.2 The moisture gradient shall be no greater than 5 percentage points between center and outside.
Moisture content shall be taken at depths representing the outer half and the inner half of the piece; for
example, one-half inch and I inch for power crossarms.
14.2.1 A resistance-type meter with insulated needles shall be used. The meter shall be checked for
calibration before and during inspection.
14.2.2 A sample of not less than 20 arms per charge shall be checked for moisture content.
14.2.3 Moisture measurements should be taken at some distance from pin or bolt holes and the ends.

15 Designated Fiber Stress

Arms covered by table 1 - 7800 psi
Arms covered by table 2 - 7400 psi
These fiber stresses are for the loading configuration described for the MOR test in annex B, and may be
subject to adjustment (increase or decrease) for other loading configurations.

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 ANSI 0 5 - 3 95 W 0724150 0524b52 I147 D

ANSI 05.3-1995

PIN HOLES *'TO' Table A

SEE TABLE A Pin Holes
I.,
8) :j
I I I i: i :i: + /tx Wood Steel
I I I
(inches) (inches)
1-17/32 (b) 9/16 (b)
1-25/32 bj 11/16 @)
13/16 (b)

4 ' - 2 PIN ARM

Table B
Tolerances
Dimensional Over Under
Class (inch) (inch)
(b) 1/32 3/32
(4 1/8 1/8
0 114 114
NOTES:
(1) Cross-section dimensionshave"d"
tolerances.
(2) Center lines X and Y have " d
tolerances.

5'-7''4 PIN ARM

8'-6 PIN ARM

Figure 7 - Recommended dimensions for crossarms with arms having 2,4,6, and 8 pin holes
16

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 A N S I 05.3 95 0724350 0524b53 083

ANSI 05.3-1995

#
TOP
9/16" HOLE 38"CHAMFER

11116"

5-1/2"f 32-112"d 4"d- 18"d +

I
SIDE
3B"d CHAMFER MATERIALAS I
PER

VARIATIONS

NOTES:
(1) Holes shall not be more than 1/16 inch off longitudinal center.
(2) Aii bolt holes shall pass, without forcing, standard galvanized steel bolts of nominal
diameters 1/16 inch less than the specified hole diameters. Bolt holes shall not admit a "no go-
gage" 1/32 inch larger in diameter than the specified hole diameter.

Figure 8 - Sample of specification prepared by user

(SEE NOTE 1)

(SEE NOTE 2)

NOTES:
u 3ì8 in f 118 in
x 45 CHAMFER

(1) The two top edges (only) shall be either chamfered or rounded. (The manufacturer may
choose the shape preferred.)
(2) The two bottom edges may be slightly eased for the entire length, 1/8 in i 1/16 in radius.

Figure 9 - Crossarm edges

I318 in f 118 in
'RADIUS

17

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 ANSI 05.3 75 M 0 7 2 4 3 5 0 O524654 T I T M

ANSI 05.3-1995

Pari 111
Dense Southern pine:
Specifications for crossarms

16 Scope of Part 111

16.1 This part of the standard consists of specifications for the material and manufacture of dense
Southern pine crossarms.
16.2 The specifications in this standard that relate to dense Southern pine are intended to apply to
crossarms having cross sections of not more than 4 inches on one face by not more than 6 inches on the
other face.

17 Options and limitations (requirements)

17.1 Attention is directed to both options and limitations (requirements) in the specifications for
crossarms of Southern pine. When there are options, selections should be made by the purchaser from
those available, and should be specified by the purchaser.
17.2 These specifications cover crossarms for use throughout the entire United States. Since usage
may differ and exposure to decay and insect damage may vary between extremes, it is logical to allow
variations in dimension, treatment, and preservative.
17.2.1 Dimensions, length, drilling details, and allowable tolerances shall be specified by the purchaser.
(These details are customarily shown by drawings.)
NOTE - The drawings in figure 7 give recommended drilling details and dimensions for crossarm lengths of 4 feet,
5 feet-7 inches, 8 feet, and 10 feet. Suggested cross-section dimensions are 3-1/4 inches x 4-1/4 inches; 3-1/2
inches x 4-1/2 inches; 3-1M inches x 5-1/2 inches; and 3-3/4 inches x 4-3/4 inches. The crossarms with the 3-1/2
inch x 4-1/2 inch cross sections and the 3-112 inch x 5-1/2 inch cross sections can be produced from standard ALS
(American Lumber Standard) lumber sizes.
17.2.2 As explained in clause 20, several methods of seasoning before treatment are available, and
may be specified.
17.2.3 - Manufacturing requirements are covered in clause 18. Limitations on material are covered in
clause 17 and table 4.

18 Manufacturing requirements
18.1 Workmanship
All crossarms and braces shall be of first-quality workmanship, as described in the SPIB Grading Rules,
Paragraph 722, Standard “E” manufacture. Crossarms shall be dressed on four sides, although “hit and
miss” dressing on the bottom and light skips on one side are permissible. Splintering around holes
resulting from bits breaking through shall be kept to a minimum.
18.2 Dimensions, drilling details, and tolerances
The dimensions and drilling details of crossarms shall conform to specifications or drawings supplied by
the purchaser.
If the tolerances for all dimensions and drilling details are not otherwise specified, they shall be in
accordance with those shown in table B of figure 7.

18
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 A N S I 05.3 75 0721rL50 0524b55 756

ANSI 05.3-1995

Table 4 - Knot-size limitations in southern pine crossarms

I Center section I
~~

Maximum diameter of tight 1-1/4 1-112 1-314

single knot
Maximum sum of diameters in a 2-112 3 3-1/2
6-inch section
Maximum diameter of a knot 1/2 112 1
intersecting a pin hole
Minimum distance of 314-inch (The knot's (The knot's 112
and larger knots and knot holes own diameter) own diameter)
from the pin holes at the surface
of the crossarm

19
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ANSI 05.3-1995

18.3 Edges
The edges of crossarms shall be as shown in figure 9.
NOTE - Rounded edges on the tops of arms serve two purposes. First, they indicate the top of the arm to
inspectors and linemen. This is necessary because greater defects are permitted on the bottom than on the top.
Upside-down installation may thus result in lower effective strength. Second, a rounded edge offers a minimum of
resistance to insulated wire that may be pulled over the crossarm during erection.

19 Limitations
19.1 Checks
On the top face, continuous checks shall be no wider than 1/8 inch or less if they intersect end pin holes
and the end of the arm, or if they intersect adjacent pin holes.
On other faces, checks shall not exceed one-third the length of the arm.
The maximum depth of checks shall not exceed half of the width of the arm or, if located on opposite
faces, the total depth of the two shall not exceed half the width.
19.2 Compression wood
Compression wood is permitted if covered by 6 growth rings or if located at least 1 inch from any surface.
19.3 Cracks
Cracks are prohibited.
19.4 Crossgrain
Crossgrain may be no steeper than 1 inch in 10 inches, exclusive of normal deviation around knots.
19.5 Advanced decay (dote or rot)
Decay is prohibited.
19.6 Density
Only material meeting the requirements for dense lumber in Paragraph 103 of the SPIB Grading Rules
for Southern pine lumber shall be accepted. The paragraph is reproduced in annex A.
19.7 Knots
The following shall be observed:
a) Knot clusters are prohibited;
b) Unsound knots are prohibited (Sound knot defined in clause 3.);
c) Loose knots and knot holes shall drain water;
d) Knots in the upper-center section are permitted if not greater than half the dimensions allowed for
single tight knots;
e) In the lower-center and end sections, knots are permitted if not greater than the dimensions
allowed for single tight knots in table 4;
9 Spike knots or spike knot cavities on the top face are permitted if not over 3/4 inch in width or 3/8
inch in depth. Elsewhere, knots are permitted only if not greater in depth than half the dimensions
allowed for single tight knots in table 4.
19.8 Pith centers
Pith centers are acceptable.

20
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ANSI 05.3-1995

19.9 Red heart

Red heart is prohibited.
19.1O Sapwood
There is no limitation on sapwood.
19.11 Seasoning
Methods shall be as specified in clause 20, with moisture content permitted as defined in 20.l(d).
19.12 Shakes
Shakes are permitted if covered by six annual rings, or if located at least 1 inch from any surface.
19.13 Splits
Splits are prohibited (unless nail-plated on the end surface).
19.14 Torn grain
Maximum depth of torn grain shall not exceed 1/16 inch.
19.1 5 Wane
On end sections, maximum wane shall not exceed 1 inch measured across corners, and wane shall not
occur on more than one edge. On center sections, maximum wane shall not exceed 1/2 inch. All bark
shall be removed.
19.16 Warp
Maximum warp shall not exceed 0.1 inch in 12 inches length, and not in two directions.
19.17 Worm holes
Worm holes are permitted, provided that they are no more detrimental than allowable loose knots or knot
holes.

20 Seasoning
Either air-seasoning, kiln-drying, or any other acceptable process that will reduce the moisture content of
the crossarm before treatment is permitted. However, steam conditioning for purposes of reducing
moisture content shall not be permitted because this process causes excessive warping and checking
after the arms have been in service.
20.1 The moisture content of a charge of crossarms shall be determined from moisture meter readings
using a resistance-type moisture meter with insulated needles, as follows:
a) Tests shall be made before treatment on dried, surfaced arms;
b) The insulated needles shall be driven into the center half of the arm to a depth of at least 3/4inch;
c) The moisture test shall be made on each of 20 crossarms of each charge;
d) The average meter reading of all arms tested shall be 22% or less. In arriving at this average, only
5 percent of the crossarms tested may give readings not exceeding 35%.
20.2 The moisture content may also be determined by oven-drying a composite sample of 20 borings
representing the outer 1.0 inch of sapwood. The borings shall be taken between the end and brace bolt
holes, in the centerline of the side or bottom surface of the arm at least 6 inches from the end. The
samples shall all be taken as far as practical from any hole. The bored holes shall be plugged with treated
plugs.
20.3 It is not customary to redry crossarms to specified moisture contents following treatment with a
water-borne preservative. However, when such is specified by the purchaser, the arms shall be air-
seasoned or kiln-dried to a moisture content of 22% or less. If kiln-drying is used, the kiln temperature
shall be limited to a maximum of 150°F.
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ANSI 05.3-1995

Annex A
(informative)

Grading rules for southern pine crossarm stock

Southern Dine crossarm stock is usually purchased by crossarm producers in wdanc with the 1977
Grading Rules, as revised for "Southern pine lumber" by the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau. That
grade of lumber conforms closely to "Dense Industrial 65." In general, material purchased to this grade will
meet the requirements of this specification. However, physical location of defects may make some stock
unfit for crossarms supplied under these specifications. Some producers may prefer to use "Dense
Industrial 72" or "Dense Industrial 86" and do less sorting to meet the requirements of this specification.
Paragraph 103 of the 1991 Grading Rules for Southern Pine Lumber defines dense lumber as follows:6)
103.1 Dense lumber shall average on one end or the other of each piece not less than 6 annual rings per
inch and 1/3 or more summerwood (the darker, harder portion of the annual ring) measured on a
representative radial line as specified. The contrast in color between springwood and summerwood shall
be distinct. Pieces that average not less than 4 annual rings per inch shall be accepted as dense if they
average 1/2 or more summerwood.
103.1 (a) Measurement of density shall be made in such a way as to ensure that the measured radial line
is representative. Measurement shall be made over a continuous length of three inches or as nearly three
inches as is available. The length shall be centrally located in side-cut (pithless) pieces. In pieces
containing the pith, the measurement may exclude an inner portion of the radius amounting to 114 of the
least nominal dimension of the piece.

Reprinted by permission of Southern Pine Inspection Bureau.

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ANSI 05.3-1995

Annex B
(informative)

Test setup for evaluation of crossarm bending MOR

Machine head

r(

Load bearing roller

Load bearing block
Beam depth
r
,
- .
Rollers
Specimen

\ - I
I
1/2 Shear span Load span
Span
1I2 Shear span

E=-(4bh3A 3~2-4a')

Refer to ASTM D198

E = Modulus of elasticity in bending, Ibs./in.2
P' = Total load on the crossarm, Ibs. (P' = 2P)
P = Half of the total load on the crossarm, Ibs.
L = Reaction span, in.
a = Distance from a reaction to adjacent load point, in.
b = Width of the crossarm, in.
h = Depth of the crossarm, in.
A = Bending deflection at the centerline, U2, relative to the end supports, in.
Reprinted, with permission, from the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, copyright American Society for Testing and
Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.

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ANSI 05.3-1995

Material
Species: Douglas-fir, southern pine, or any other species as allowed by this Standard.
Other species may be proposed for consideration for inclusion into the
Standard, but to be considered must be accompanied by data to support
intended service longevity and suitability for the intended use.
Specifications: If materials to be tested do not meet ANSI 05.3, then submission of data in
support of designated fiber stress must be accompanied by complete
specifications for the material and manufacture.
Sampling: Per ASTM D2915.
Moisture Content: Solid Sawn - Average 15-19% (Min. 12% and Max. 22%)
Arm Net Size: 3-1/2" x 4-1/2" x 8'0"
Fabrication: Dried first, then surfaced only, no boring, no treating.
Marking: The intended "top" of the arm must be marked (see table 1 Knot Criteria). For
bending tests about the major axis, the arms must be loaded in a manner
which places the "top" of the arm in tension.
Test Method - Bendina MOR
Reference Standard: Per ASTM D198 for methods and procedures.
Orientation: Tests should be conducted for both major and minor axis bending, to develop
fiber stress data applicable to both vertical and longitudinal crossarm loading
configurations. Standard crossarms are typically used for buckarm dead end
applications which develop severe loading about the minor bending axis.
When loading about the major axis, the "top" of the arm must be in tension.
Tests may be conducted with the tension face of the arm oriented either up or
down as convenience dictates for the test apparatus.
Reaction Span: Reactions shall be 4" from the ends of the arm, giving a reaction span of 88".
Load Type & Span: Two-point load per ASTM D198. Load points shall be 33" from the reaction
points. Load points shall be 22" apart.
Test Speed: Ramp or uniform step (5-10 minutes total to failure)
Data To Be Collected or Calculated
Actual dimensions of each crossarm, cross section shall be measured with calipers.
Moisture content and weight of the crossarm.
Slope of grain.
Density, rings per inch, % summerwood (less than 1/4, 1/4-1/3, 1/3-1/2, over 1/2).
Knot size, location, and displacement, at least for central half-length of the crossarm.
Any other notable defects or comments regarding defects.
Type and location of bending failure, including sequence.
Modulus of elasticity (MOE), based on the measured cross section and monitoring of the deflection of the
arm's neutral axis at the midpoint of its length, relative to the neutral axis at the reaction point 4 inches
from the end. Take note that the MOE cannot be calculated using formula for a simple beam having one
concentrated load at its center.
Bending Modulus of Rupture (MOR), based on the cross section and the maximum load.
MOR and MOE average, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation for each test series.

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ANSI 05.3-1995

Annex C
(informative)

Adjusting test results to obtain fiber stress

The fiber stress shall be calculated from test data such that there is a 75% confidence that the true
mean be above the calculated value. This may be determined by:

x, = x(1- t VJN)

Where
Xfs = fiber stress
x = sample mean
t = Value from one sided t distribution for
75% confidence (See table C.l)
V = Coefficient of variation
N = Sample size
Examples of the factor

For V = 0.15 and 0,20are also shown in table C.1.

Table C.l - Factors for determining fiber stress values

~~

250 .680
I 1-0.102/47 I 1- 0.136/&

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ANSI 05.3-1995

Annex D
(informative)

Bibliography

ASTM D 1760-86a, Pressure treatment of timber products’)

AWPA A5-93, Standard methods for analysis of oil-borne preservative8
AWPA A6-93, Method for the determination of oil-type preservatives and water in wood
AWPA C1-93, All timber products - preservative treatment by pressure processe8
AWPA C2-93, Lumber, timbers, bridge ties and mine ties - preservative treatment by pressure
processe8
AWPA M2-91, Standard for inspection of treated timber product?)
AWPA Pl/P16-91, Standard for coal tar creosote for land and fresh water and marine (coastal water use) 2,
AWPA P5-93, Standards for water-borne preservative?)
AWPA P8-93, Standards for oil-borne preservative8
AWPA P9-92, Standards for solvents and formulations for organic preservative system?)

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