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The Evolution of Flagpoles

Since humans began flying flags, flagpoles have experienced a lot of significant alterations. Before the industrial revolution, flagpoles were entirely constructed of wood. Although a few firms still utilize this technique today, most flagpole producers employ more lasting materials.

In past times, a carpenter saw down a perfectly erect and scrupulously trim some parts of the tree to model it into a pole bearing semblance to some form of shaft; all of these procedures as a whole were used in producing wooden flagpoles. Subsequently, the finished product is rooted into the ground, and a flag is then attached to the topmost part of the tree, on which a hinge must have been created for the flag to rest.

 Spruce or pine trees were treated and utilized for flagpoles to give them a silkier and more polished appearance. Knives would be used to carve up and create some significant shape for these trees, subjected to some sanding to give a smooth finish. After this, some quantity of animal fat is applied to the tree as a preservative and rubbed over the whole pole for many days to guarantee thorough saturation of the tree with fat. These poles tend to last for more than 50 years, provided that the work was completed by an expert who knew what they were doing. These flagpoles turned out quite beautiful, but because they were installed directly into the ground, they mostly started to rot at the base area of the tree. In 1911, one unique pole was built in Glenwood, Arizona. There is some history about it, and it goes thus: this carefully crafted wooden flagpole stood over 110 feet tall until a steel pole was used to replace it in 1964.

The early 1900s

Steel became a popular flagpole country building material in the 1900s. The poles were sectional, which means that at least two steel poles were put into each other to raise the height of the pole. Steel, although robust and long-lasting, had a propensity to rust. Flagpoles were often painted to give them a more appealing look and preserve them from the weather. The paint would break or split with time, allowing rain and other elements access to the steel and causing the flagpole to rust. Wooden flagpoles were nearly obsolete during the steel age.

The mid-1900s

Aluminum was first used to make flagpoles in the mid-to-late 1900s. Aluminum’s molecular composition might be altered and utilized to create goods for various uses. Today, 6063 aluminum alloy is the most utilized aluminum alloy for flagpoles. This indicates that the aluminum has been toughened to the point where it can resist very high-stress levels. Most aluminum flagpoles, for example, are crafted to have a T6 temper rating and can bear a minimum stress level of at least 18,000 psi.

The Modern Era

Aluminum is still the most often utilized material in the manufacture of flagpoles. It is available in various finishes, including satin, painted, and anodized. Directional sanding or abrasive polishing is used to achieve the satin finish. Consequently, the end product is sleek and will not rust or corrode. The surface may be coated in various colors or anodized for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Throughout history, flagpoles have evolved in terms of style, construction, and composition. Flagpoles, from the wooden flagpoles of the 1800s to the beautiful, shining, transparent anodized aluminum flagpoles of today, continue to enable people all over the globe to express their patriotism. The flagpole will continue to develop and innovate as the industry does. Aside from aluminum, fiberglass is a common material. Fiberglass is a lightweight material with a smooth, beautiful surface that is also sturdy and long-lasting. These poles are available in regular white or black, bronze or silver finishes.

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