Cantilever Traffic Signal Pole vs Span Wire Installation Comparison
Introduction
A signal can be suspended over a road by a cantilever pole (single pole with horizontal arm) or by span wire (two poles with a tensioned cable). The choice depends on road width, aesthetic preference, and budget. This guide compares the two.
Cantilever (Signal Arm) Pole
A cantilever pole is a single pole with a horizontal arm extending over the lane. The signal head hangs from the arm tip. Pros: clean look, only one foundation, easy maintenance. Cons: heavier pole, larger foundation, higher cost per pole.
GAOQIAO supplies cantilever poles in 5-7 m heights with arms up to 12 m. Used on most modern urban and suburban intersections.
Span Wire
A span wire installation uses two poles (one on each side of the road) with a tensioned steel cable between them. The signal heads hang from the cable. Pros: works on very wide roads, lower cost per pole. Cons: two foundations to build, the cable can sag over time, the look is dated.
Used on wide arterials (4+ lanes each way) where a cantilever arm would be too long, and in older urban centres where the look is consistent with the surroundings.
Decision Matrix
| Factor | Cantilever | Span wire |
|---|---|---|
| Lane count up to 4 per direction | Preferred | Acceptable |
| Lane count 5+ per direction | Arm too long, use span | Preferred |
| Aesthetic | Modern, clean | Dated, visible cables |
| Foundation cost | One foundation | Two foundations |
| Pole cost | Higher per pole | Lower per pole |
| Maintenance | Easier (one pole to inspect) | Harder (cable tensioning) |
Featured Products
GAOQIAO supplies both signal arm poles and vertical poles for span wire use. See the pole selection guide.
Conclusion
Cantilever for new urban intersections with up to 4 lanes per direction. Span wire for very wide arterials or where the look matches the neighbourhood. GAOQIAO supplies both. Send us your road width and aesthetic preference for a recommendation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a second arm to an existing cantilever pole?
Only if the pole was designed for it. GAOQIAO supplies poles with documented future expansion capability; check the original design drawing.
How long does a span wire last?
The cable itself lasts 15-20 years; it needs periodic re-tensioning. The poles last longer, 25-30 years.
Which is more expensive?
Cantilever is more expensive per pole but cheaper overall because you only need one. Span wire needs two poles but they are smaller.
Relevant GAOQIAO products
These public GAOQIAO catalogue pages are related to the guide. Open them for the representative description, then confirm the latest drawing and configuration before ordering.
- Traffic signal controllersWired and solar controllers with 6, 22, 44 and 56 output options.
- LED traffic signal heads200mm, 300mm and 400mm signal heads with MUTCD, EN12368, GB14886 compliance.
- Signal polesVertical, signal arm and double-arm poles for any intersection geometry.
- Spare parts and accessoriesSpare LED modules, lenses, visors, surge arrestors and anchor bolts.