kAfter MEI performs the structural analysis, as a second phase of the work upon client request, the deficient tower members are strengthened in a variety of methods to increase their support capacity. 

For monopoles, the shaft is augmented by adding steel plates or other shapes either by welding or bolting.  Our preference is to avoid field welding as much as possible in order to not negatively affect the steel composition and create stress concentrations in the material.    

For latticed self-support structures, the bracing members and main leg members are strengthened by adding new bracing members and/or by converting the deficient members into built-up composite members using additional steel shapes.  For guyed towers, the guying optimization is an integral step in the modification design of this type of structures and the mast is generally strengthened using the same principles as self-support towers.  Another component of the towers is the foundation, and in many cases, when a mast strengthening is required, foundation modification is also required.  In addition to the above strengthening methods, when modifying a tower for the purpose of increasing its capacity, MEI first optimizes the appurtenances involved and especially the transmission lines arrangement and their layout.  This can have a significant impact of the support capacity of the tower and the extent of the strengthening required.  MEI offers unique modification solutions gained from its years of experience, including a patent pending pole strengthening design. 

Our modification designs are easy to install, field adaptable, maintenance friendly, reliable and cost-effective.  Our technical design documentation is comprehensive and complete with all related installation and fabrication requirements for proper implementation of the design.