Light Poles

Stainless steel light fixtures are a popular choice for pedestrian areas and are also used along highways. They provide attractive, stylish lighting with minimal maintenance. Appropriate stainless steel and finish choice are important to retain an attractive appearance. Generally, Type 316 stainless steel is a cost-effective choice for light poles and fixtures in coastal areas and along busy roadways in areas with deicing salt use. In particularly corrosive locations, a more corrosion resistance stainless steel or some maintenance cleaning may be required, particularly if there are any sheltered components that will not be rain-washed.

When stainless steel light poles are used along highways, they generally have breakaway designs.  Breakaway poles were designed to reduce traffic fatalities by allowing the poles to separate from their base when hit by a vehicle.

The adjacent Type 316 light fixtures line a coastal canal in South Africa. Although they are only rain-washed, they have maintained their attractive appearance. The selection of a very smooth finish has been beneficial because it minimizes salt and dirt accumulation.