IS 22031993AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Wooden cross arms

IS 2203:1993 specifies the requirements for wooden cross arms used with poles in overhead power and telecommunication lines in India. It covers timber species classification, dimensions, permissible defects, preservative treatments, and quality testing to ensure durability and mechanical strength. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and quality controllers involved in the design, production, and installation of wooden cross arms for electrical and communication infrastructure.

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What This Standard Covers

IS 2203:1993 specifies the requirements for wooden cross arms used with poles in overhead power and telecommunication lines in India. It covers timber species classification, dimensions, permissible defects, preservative treatments, and quality testing to ensure durability and mechanical strength. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and quality controllers involved in the design, production, and installation of wooden cross arms for electrical and communication infrastructure.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Electrical engineers
  • Telecommunication engineers
  • Pole and cross arm manufacturers
  • Quality control inspectors
  • Civil engineers specializing in power distribution
  • Procurement specialists in utilities
  • Timber treatment professionals

Key Topics Covered

Timber species classification and selection
Mechanical strength requirements
Dimensions and tolerances of cross arms
Permissible and prohibited wood defects
Preservative treatment methods
Marking and identification of cross arms
Testing procedures including bending tests
Moisture content and seasoning requirements
Stacking and storage guidelines
Hole and slot specifications
Surface finishing standards
Quality assurance and inspection criteria

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 2203: Scope - Key Specifications & Tables

Scope:
IS 2203 covers specifications for wooden cross arms used in overhead power lines, detailing dimensions, materials, and quality requirements.


1. Dimensions of Wooden Cross Arms for 11 kV Lines (Clause 7.1.2)

Particulars of Cross ArmsLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Hole Diameters (mm)Hole Distances from Centre (mm)
For span up to 106.7 mm1.07100 x 7612A = 305; B = 457 (each side)
For span 106.7 to 152.4 mm1.37100 x 7612A = 305; B = 610 (each side)
Dead end and guarding1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A, B = 610; C = 762 (each side)
Guarding along the road1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A, B = 610, 457; D = 762 (each side)

Note: Holes accommodate fittings like insulators, clamps, and pins.


2. Maximum Permissible Size of Knots (Clause 5.3.5)

DescriptionDiameter of Knots (mm)
Single knot in any hole zone7.5 (middle), 12.5-17.5 (end)
Single knot in any 100 mm length between hole zones12.5 (middle), 25-30 (end)
Sum of diameters in any hole zone25 (middle), 30 (end)
Sum of diameters in any 100 mm length50 (middle), 62.5-87.5 (end)

3. Selection of Timber Species (Clause 4.1 & Annex A)

2References

IS 2203 Key References Summary

1. Dimensions of Wooden Cross Arms (Clause 7.1.2, Table 2)

ParticularsLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Hole Diameters (mm)Hole Distances from Center (mm)
Span ≤ 1.071.07100 x 7612A=305, B=457 (either side)
Span 1.07-1.521.37100 x 7612A=305, B=610
Dead end/guarding1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A=305, B=610, C=762
Guarding along road1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A=610, B=457, D=762
SAQ with guarding ≤0.761.52100 x 7612, 17.5A=457, B=229 & 533, F=686
SAQ with guarding 0.76-1.221.83100 x 7612, 17.5A=457, B=229 & 686, F=838
SAQ 1.22-1.471.98100 x 7612, 17.5A=610, B=305 & 914, E=914

2. Maximum Permissible Knot Sizes (Clause 5.3.5, Table 1)

Knot LocationSingle Knot (mm)Sum of Diameters (mm)
Middle Section (hole zone)7.525.0
Middle Section (100 mm length)12.550.0
End Section (hole zone)12.5 to 17.530.0
End Section (100 mm length)
3Definitions

IS 2203: Definitions & Key Specifications for Wooden Cross Arms

1. Dimensions of Wooden Cross Arms (Clause 7.1.2, Table 2)

ParticularsLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Hole Diameters (mm)Hole Distances from Centre (mm)
Span up to 106.7 mm1.07100 x 7612A=305, B=457
Span 106.7 to 152.4 mm1.37100 x 7612A=305, B=610
Dead end/Guarding1.68100 x 7612A=305, B=610, C=762
Guarding along road1.68100 x 7612A=610, B=457, D=762
SAQ with guarding ≤0.76 m1.52100 x 7612A=457, B=229 & 533, F=686
SAQ with guarding 0.76-1.22 m1.83100 x 7612A=457, B=229 & 686, F=838
SAQ 1.22 to 1.47 m1.98100 x 7612A=610, B=305 & 914, E=914

2. Maximum Permissible Size of Knots (Clause 5.3.5, Table 1)

DescriptionMiddle Section (mm)End Section (mm)
Single knot in hole zone7.5 (upper), 12.5-17.5 (lower)25.0
Single knot in 100 mm length12.5 (upper), 25-30 (lower)37.5
Sum diameters in hole zone25.0 (upper), 30.0 (lower)50.0
Sum diameters in 100 mm length50.0 (upper),
4Material Selection and Timber Species

IS 2203: Material Selection & Timber Species for Wooden Cross Arms

Timber Classification by Modulus of Rupture (MoR) in Green Condition (>25% moisture) [Clause 4.1]

GroupMoR (N/mm²)Representative SpeciesStrength Category
A≥ 85Sal (Shorea robusta)Very Strong Timber
B65 to < 85Teak (Tectona grandis)Strong Timber
C45 to < 65Chir (Pinus roxburghii)Moderately Strong

Key Specifications:

  • MoR tested per IS 1708:1986 on small green specimens.
  • Moisture content should be above 25% during testing.
  • Selection based on strength class ensures durability and load-bearing capacity.
  • Use IS 287:1973 for permissible moisture content limits.
  • Preservation methods per IS 2203 and IS 1708 ensure longevity.

Summary:

  • Choose timber species from Group A for highest strength applications.
  • Groups B and C are suitable for moderate load conditions.
  • Ensure timber meets moisture and preservation standards for service life.
graph TD
  A[Timber Species] -->|MoR ≥ 85| GroupA[Group A: Very Strong (Sal)]
  A -->|65 ≤ MoR < 85| GroupB[Group B: Strong (Teak)]
  A -->|45 ≤ MoR < 65| GroupC[Group C: Moderate (Chir)]

This classification guides engineers in selecting appropriate timber for cross arms per IS 2203.

5Defects and Quality Requirements

IS 2203: Defects and Quality Requirements for Cross Arms

1. Prohibited Defects (Clause 5.2)

Cross arms must be free from:

  • Cross breaks
  • Reaction wood
  • Decayed or unsound knots, knots > 50 mm diameter
  • Splits extending top-to-bottom or side-to-side
  • Pitch seams

2. Permissible Defects (Clause 5.3)

Certain defects are allowed within limits specified, especially knots.

3. Measurement Standard

Defects measured as per IS 3364 (Part 2): 1976.

4. Key Table: Maximum Permissible Size of Knots (Clause 5.3.5)

DescriptionMiddle Section (mm)End Section (Upper & Lower Halves Together) (mm)
Single knot in any hole zoneUpper half: 7.5<br>Lower half: 12.5 to 17.525.0
Single knot in any 100 mm length between hole zones12.5<br>25.0 to 30.037.5
Sum of diameters in any hole zone25.0<br>30.050.0
Sum of diameters in any 100 mm length between hole zones50.0<br>62.587.5

Summary:

  • No large or decayed knots (>50 mm) allowed.
  • Smaller knots allowed but limited in size and distribution.
  • Defect measurement per IS 3364 ensures uniform quality.

This ensures structural integrity and durability of wooden cross arms in transmission lines.

6Manufacturing Details and Finishing

IS 2203: Manufacturing Details & Finishing of Wooden Cross Arms


1. Dimensions of Wooden Cross Arms (Clause 7.1.2, Table 2)

Particulars of Cross ArmsLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Hole Diameters (mm)Hole Distances from Center (mm)
For span up to 106.7 m1.07100 x 7612A = 305, B = 457
For span 106.7 to 152.4 m1.37100 x 7612A = 305, B = 610
Dead end & guarding1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A = 610, B = 305, C = 762
Guarding along road1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A = 610, B = 457, D = 762
SAQ with guarding ≤ 0.76m1.52100 x 7612, 17.5A = 457, B = 229 & 533, F = 686
SAQ with guarding 0.76-1.22m1.83100 x 7612, 17.5A = 457, B = 229 & 686, F = 838
SAQ above 1.22 to 1.47 m1.98100 x 7612, 17.5A = 610, B = 305 & 914, E = 914

2. Permissible Defects - Maximum Knot Sizes (Clause 5.3.5, Table 1)

DescriptionDiameter of Knots (mm)
Middle Section
Single knot in any hole zone7.5
7Dimensions and Tolerances

IS 2203 - Dimensions and Tolerances for Wooden Cross Arms

Key Points from IS 2203:

  • Clause 6.2: Cross arms must have bevelled corners on the best edge to distinguish upper and lower halves.

  • Clause 7.1.1: Cross arm dimensions and drilling details must match purchaser's drawings.

  • Clause 7.1.2 (Table 2): Dimensions for 11 kV Wooden Cross Arms

Span TypeLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Central Hole (mm)Hole Distances from Center (mm)
Up to 106.7 mm1.07100 x 7617.5A = 305, B = 457 (both sides)
106.7 to 152.4 mm1.37100 x 7617.5A = 305, B = 610 (both sides)
Dead end/guarding1.68100 x 7617.5A = 610, B = 305, C = 762 (varied sides)
Guarding along road1.68100 x 7617.5A = 610, B = 457, D = 762 (both sides)
SAQ with guarding ≤ 0.76 m1.52100 x 7617.5A = 457, B = 229 & 533, F = 686 (both sides)
SAQ with guarding 0.76–1.22 m1.83100 x 7617.5A = 457, B = 229 & 686, F = 838 (both sides)
SAQ with guarding 1.22–1.47 m1.98100 x 7617.5A = 610, B = 305 & 914, E = 914 (varied sides)
  • Clause 5.3.5 (Table 1): Maximum Knot Sizes

| Knot Location | Max Single Knot Diameter (mm) | Sum of Knot Diameters (mm

8Preservative Treatment

IS 2203: Preservative Treatment of Wooden Cross Arms

Key Specifications:

  • Clause 8.1:

    • All cross arms made from non-durable species and sapwood of durable species must be preservative treated as per IS 401:1982 (same as wood poles).
  • Clause 8.2 (Preliminary Treatment):

    • Untreated cross arms must receive prophylactic treatment promptly to prevent insect/fungal damage (per IS 401:1982).
    • Cross arms (treated or untreated) should be stacked on creosoted or treated crossers, at least 150 mm above ground for air circulation and decay prevention.

Marking Requirements (Clause 11.1):

Each cross arm must be clearly marked with:

  • Group of wooden cross arm
  • Timber species symbol (see Annex A)
  • Year of manufacture
  • Source of manufacture
  • Year of preservative treatment

Reference: IS 401:1982 Treatment Summary (Typical)

Treatment TypePreservative UsedRetention (kg/m³)Purpose
CreosoteCoal tar creosote6.0 - 8.0Insect & fungal control
Copper Chrome Arsenate (CCA)CCA solution3.0 - 5.0Enhanced durability

Visual: Cross Arm Stacking for Treatment

graph LR
A[Ground] --> B[Treated Crossers (creosoted)]
B --> C[Cross Arms stacked 150 mm above ground]
C --> D[Good air circulation]
C --> E[Protection from decay agents]

Summary: Use IS 401:1982 for preservative treatment methods; stack cross arms properly; mark all treated arms as per IS 2203 Clause 11.1.

9Storage and Handling

IS 2203: Storage and Handling of Wooden Cross Arms

Key Specifications & Tables (Clause 7.1.2, Table 2)

Particulars of Cross ArmsLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Hole Diameters (mm)Hole Distances from Center (mm)
For span up to 106.7 mm1.07100 x 7612A = 305, B = 457
For span 106.7 to 152.4 m1.37100 x 7612A = 305, B = 610
Dead end and guarding1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A=610, B=305, C=762
Guarding along road1.68100 x 7612, 17.5A=610, B=457, D=762
SAQ with guarding ≤0.76 m1.52100 x 7612, 17.5A=457, B=229 & 533, F=686
SAQ with guarding 0.76-1.22 m1.83100 x 7612, 17.5A=457, B=229 & 686, F=838
SAQ above 1.22 to 1.47 m1.98100 x 7612, 17.5A=610, B=305 & 914, E=914

Storage & Handling (Clause 8.2)

  • Preliminary Treatment: Untreated cross arms must receive prophylactic treatment per IS 401:1982 to prevent insect/fungal damage.
  • Stacking: Cross arms (treated or untreated) must be stacked on creosoted or treated sleepers, 150 mm above ground for air circulation and protection against decay.
  • Dimensional Tolerance: ±5 mm for external dimensions, ±2 mm for holes/slots
10Testing and Inspection

IS 2203: Testing and Inspection Key Points

1. Defects Measurement (Clause 5.1)

  • Defects are classified as prohibited and permissible (Clauses 5.2 & 5.3).
  • Measurement of defects follows IS 3364 (Part 2): 1976.

2. Maximum Permissible Size of Knots (Clause 5.3.5, Table 1)

DescriptionMiddle Section (mm)End Section (Upper & Lower Halves) (mm)
Single knot in any hole zoneUpper half: 7.525.0
Lower half: 12.5–17.5
Single knot in any 100 mm length between holes12.537.5
Sum of diameters in any hole zone25.050.0
Sum of diameters in any 100 mm length50.087.5

3. Dimensions of Wooden Cross Arms for 11 kV Lines (Clause 7.1.2, Table 2)

Span TypeLength (m)Cross Section (mm)Hole Distances from Centre (mm)
Up to 106.7 m1.07100 x 76A=305, B=457
106.7 to 152.4 m1.37100 x 76A=305, B=610
Dead end and guarding1.68100 x 76A=305, B=610, C=762
Guarding along the road1.68100 x 76A=610, B=457, D=762
With guarding up to 0.76 m1.52100 x 76A=457, B=229 & 533, F=686
With guarding 0.76 to 1.22 m
11Marking and Identification

IS 2203: Marking & Identification of Wooden Cross Arms

Key Specifications (Clause 11.1)

Each wooden cross arm must be marked legibly and indelibly with:

  • Group of wooden cross arm
  • Species of timber symbol (see Annex A)
  • Year of manufacture
  • Source of manufacture
  • Year of preservative treatment

Species Symbols (Annex A)

Trade NameBotanical NameSymbol
BabulAcacia arabicaBAB
HopeaHopea parvifloraHOP
SianchorMesua assamicaSIA
AxlewoodAnogeissus latifoliaAXL
BallagiPoeciloneuron indicumBAL
.........

(Refer Annex A for full list)

Maximum Permissible Knot Sizes (Clause 5.3.5, Table 1)

DescriptionMiddle Section (mm)End Section (Upper + Lower halves) (mm)
Single knot in any hole zoneUpper half: 7.5<br>Lower half: 12.5–17.525.0
Single knot in any 100 mm length between hole zonesUpper half: 12.5<br>Lower half: 25.0–30.037.5
Sum of diameters in any hole zone25.050.0
Sum of diameters in any 100 mm length between hole zones50.087.5

Cross Arm Hole Dimensions (Clause 7.1.2, Table 2)

Cross Arm Length (m)Cross Section (mm)Central Hole Diameter (mm)Hole Distances from Center (mm)
1.07 (Span ≤ 106.7m)100 x 7617.5A = 305, B = 457
1.37 (Span 106.7–152

Popular Questions About IS 2203

?Which timber species are suitable for wooden cross arms according to IS 2203?

According to IS 2203 (Second Revision), timber species suitable for wooden cross arms are classified into three groups based on their modulus of rupture (MOR) in bending tested in green condition (>25% moisture):

GroupStrength CategoryMOR (N/mm²)Representative Species
AVery Strong Timber≥ 85Sal (Shorea robusta)
BStrong Timber65 to 85Teak (Tectona grandis)
CModerately Strong Timber45 to 65Chir (Pinus roxburghii)

Key Points:

  • Cross arms should ideally be made from the same species or at least the same group as the wood poles (IS 876:1992).
  • The classification is based on IS 1708:1986 testing of small green specimens.
  • This ensures adequate strength and durability for overhead power and telecommunication line supports.

This grouping helps engineers select timber with appropriate bending strength for structural reliability.

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?What are the permissible defects allowed in wooden cross arms under this standard?

According to IS 2203 (Second Revision), the permissible and prohibited defects in wooden cross arms are:

Prohibited Defects (Clause 5.2)

  • Cross breaks
  • Reaction wood
  • Decayed knots, unsound knots, and knots > 50 mm diameter
  • Splits extending top to bottom or side to side
  • Pitch seams

Permissible Defects (Clause 5.3)

  • The standard allows certain defects but does not specify them explicitly in the provided context. Generally, minor surface checks, small sound knots (less than 50 mm), and slight warping may be permitted as long as they do not compromise strength or durability.

Additional Notes

  • Cross arms must be free from defects that impair mechanical strength.
  • Tolerances on dimensions are ±5 mm externally and ±2 mm for holes/slots (Clause 7.2).
  • Preservation treatment is mandatory (Clause 8).

Summary Table:

Defect TypeAllowed?Remarks
Cross breaksNoProhibited
Reaction woodNoProhibited
Decayed/unsound knotsNoProhibited
Knots > 50 mmNoProhibited
Splits (full length)NoProhibited
Pitch seamsNoProhibited
Minor sound knotsYes (if < 50 mm)Permissible
Minor surface checksYesPermissible if not structural

This ensures cross arms maintain structural integrity and durability for overhead lines.

?What preservative treatments are recommended to protect wooden cross arms?

Preservative Treatment for Wooden Cross Arms as per IS 2203

  • Preliminary Treatment (Clause 8.2):
    Untreated cross arms must receive a prophylactic treatment promptly following IS 401:1982 to prevent insect and fungal attack.

  • Treatment Requirement (Clause 8.1):
    All cross arms made from non-durable species and the sapwood of durable species must be treated as per IS 401:1982, similar to wood poles.

  • Stacking (Clause 8.2):
    Cross arms (treated or untreated) should be stacked on creosoted or treated crossers at least 150 mm above ground to ensure air circulation and prevent decay.

  • Marking (Clause 11.1):
    Each cross arm must be marked with species, treatment year, and other details for traceability.


Summary Table: Key Protection Measures

AspectRequirement
Treatment StandardIS 401:1982 (Creosote or equivalent)
Species TreatedNon-durable & sapwood of durable species
Stacking Height≥ 150 mm above ground on treated crossers
Marking DetailsSpecies, group, manufacture & treatment year

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This ensures durability and protection from biological degradation during service life.

?What are the standard dimensions and tolerances specified for cross arms used in 11 kV lines?

IS 2203 - Standard Dimensions & Tolerances for Wooden Cross Arms (11 kV Lines)

Key Points from Clause 7.1.2 & Table 2:

  • Cross arm size: 100 mm × 76 mm (width × thickness)
  • Lengths vary by span/use:
Use CaseLength (m)Hole Diameters (mm)Hole Distances from Center (mm)
Span up to 106.7 m1.0712A = 305 (both sides), B = 457 (both sides)
Span 106.7 m to 152.4 m1.3712A = 305, B = 610 (both sides)
Dead end & guarding1.6812A=305, B=610, C=762 (all on either side)
Guarding along road1.6812A=610, B=457, D=762 (all on either side)
SAG with guarding ≤ 0.76 m1.5212A=457, B=229 & 533, F=686 (all sides)
SAG with guarding 0.76 to 1.22 m1.8312A=457, B=229 & 686, F=838
SAG above 1.22 to 1.47 m1.9812A=610, B=305 & 914, E=914

Additional Notes:

  • Beveling: Corners are bevelled on the best edge to distinguish upper/lower halves (Clause 6.2).
  • Drilling: Hole diameters are typically 12 mm; precise hole placement must follow purchaser's drawings (Clause 7.1.1).

Summary Diagram (Hole Distances from Center)

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?How is the mechanical strength of wooden cross arms tested as per IS 2203?

As per IS 2203 (1993), the mechanical strength testing of wooden cross arms is specified in Clause 10.2:

  • Sampling: 1% of the lot tendered, max 5 cross arms, are tested.
  • Test: Two-point bending load applied for 10 minutes.
  • Load: Specified per design and communication line requirements.
  • Acceptance criteria: No undue crushing near holes or slots.
  • If failure occurs: Test additional 2% (min 10 cross arms).
  • If any fail in second test: Reject entire lot.

Timber strength classification (Clause 4.1):

GroupModulus of Rupture (N/mm²)Example Timber
A≥ 85Sal (Shorea robusta)
B65 to 85Teak (Tectona grandis)
C45 to 65Chir (Pinus roxburghii)

Summary of mechanical strength test:

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This ensures cross arms meet bending strength and durability requirements under load.

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