A new version of Straightpoint’s (SP) popular product for measuring tension on static lines, the Clamp On Line Tensionmeter, has been given approval for use on towers by Crown Castle, a leading U.S. authority on cellular telecommunications structures.

COLT2 features a series of improvements, including longer service life and the addition of a calibration verification tool. The accompanying Bluetooth load-monitoring app also boasts enhancements.

The COLT2, like its predecessor, measures tension on wire rope up to 11,000 lbf (lb. force) / 5,000 kgf (kg force) and up to 1 in. / 25mm diameter. It clamps onto pre-tensioned wire ropes, eliminating the need for additional sheaves or tooling. The app transmits tension data wirelessly to any smart device running the Android or iOS app that also contains an infinite wire rope library. Tension in wire ropes can be measured and logged within a few seconds.

The latest version represents continued evolution of the product following its original launch in early 2017. Subsequent improvements were made 18 months later, including the ability to automatically fetch local weather conditions (temperature, wind speed, and wind direction), which is added to the data in the logging report. The original app already captured GPS coordinates.

Crown Castle, which builds, maintains, and rents tower usage for wireless voice and data communications throughout the U.S., put the COLT2 through rigorous testing in line with industry documentation, the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)-222 Structural Standard for Antenna Supporting Structures, Antennas and Small Wind Turbine Support Structures. COLT2 had to pass numerous tests with multiple units on several different wires.

The COLT2, like its predecessor, measures tension on static lines.

Wayne Wille, national business development manager at SP, said: “Approval from Crown Castle is noteworthy to all tower erection, maintenance, and service professionals. We are always looking at making our products better. We’ve made the unit stronger, which will improve the product’s lifespan over several years. The upgrade is insignificant in appearance—the center sheave is made a little stronger—but it has enhanced the tool significantly for long-term use in the field, as Crown Castle’s endorsement proves. Several improvements to the app have also been made based on feedback from customers and distributors.”

Wille pointed to key product enhancements including wire rope elevation, pulling temperature recording, and, principally, the aforementioned calibration verification tool, which was actually added to the product at Crown Castle’s request.

He said: “Due to the nature of the work and portability of the product, further verification that the COLT retains its accuracy was required. The CVT is essentially a 3/8in. steel rod that is clamped onto instead of a wire rope. The user then selects ‘cal check’ in the app versus a rope and generates a pass / fail readout. It is good for use every day for up to a year.”

Current users of the Mark I product have been invited to upgrade to the latest version.