The general procedure for erecting transmission towers is similar to that for poles, but towers present more problems. The towers require foundations; they are higher and heavier and are therefore more difficult to erect; the conductors are larger and the spans longer, making wire stringing a more difficult job.

Only the general procedure of the construction process will be given. Illustrations will be used to show the various steps. The discussions will be limited to a description of the operations shown in the illustrations.

The order of the operations in tower erection may be briefly outlined as follows:

1. Clearing right-of-way for the line

2. Installing tower footings

3. Grounding tower base

4. Erecting transmission towers

5. Insulator installation

These operations will be illustrated in the pages that follow, and comments will be made on the operations performed.

Clearing Right-of-Way. The right-of-way is cleared of all obstructions that interfere with the operation of the electric transmission line. In scenic and residential areas, clearing of natural vegetation is limited. Trees, shrubs, grass, and topsoil that are not cleared are protected from damage during the construction of the tower line. At road crossings, or other special locations of high visibility, right-of-way strips through forest and timber areas are cleared with varying alignment to comport with the topography of the terrain. Where rights-of-way enter dense timber from a meadow or other clearing, trees are feathered in at the entrance of the timber for a distance of 150 to 200 yards. Small trees and plants are used for...