Types of Masts

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Masts play a critical role in elevating antennas and equipment to enhance coverage, clarity, and connectivity. In this blog post, we explore the various types of masts and their applications to help you choose the best fit for your project.

Understanding the Different Types of Masts in Structural Engineering.

Masts are tall vertical structures designed to support antennas, lights, cables, or other equipment. One of the most common applications of masts today is in communication, where they are used to transmit signals for mobile networks, broadcasting, and internet services. These are known as communication masts, and they come in various structural forms depending on their use case, location, and load-bearing requirements.

This blog will explore the most common types of masts used in construction, engineering, and telecommunication sectors, including their design features, benefits, and applications.

  1. Guyed Masts

Guyed masts are tall, slender structures that are supported with guy wires (tensioned cables) that are anchored to the ground at multiple points. They are commonly used for their cost-effectiveness and ability to reach significant heights.

Material: Tubular steel Height Range: 30m – 120m

Advantages:

Economical for taller installations

Lightweight and modular

Quick to fabricate and install

Applications: Internet transmission towers, Rural telecommunication systems, FM/AM radio masts

  1. Lattice Masts (Free-standing Towers)

Lattice masts are free-standing frameworks made from angular or tubular steel sections. These are strong, versatile, and can carry heavy loads such as multiple antennas or microwave dishes. These masts do not require guy wires and rely on a wider base for structural integrity.

Types: Angular lattice towers, Tubular lattice towers

Material: Mild steel or galvanized steel Height Range: 15m – 60m

Advantages:

Sturdy and durable

Suitable for urban installations

Applications: City telecom and internet networks, Rooftop installations, CCTV surveillance systems

 

  1. Monopole Masts

Monopole masts consist of a single, straight steel pole. Their clean design and small footprint make them ideal for urban and roadside deployments.

Material: Mild steel or Galvanized steel (round or polygonal)

Height Range: 10m – 40m

Advantages:

Compact and space-efficient

Quick to install

Visually appealing

Applications: Street lighting, Urban telecom networks, Flag poles and camera masts

 

  1. Tiltable Masts/ Street light steel poles

These masts are designed to tilt to the ground, enabling safe and easy access for maintenance.

Material: Tubular steel Height Range: 6m – 18m

Advantages:

User-friendly maintenance

No climbing required

Applications: Solar lighting poles, Remote surveillance systems, Emergency response communication towers

Communication Masts (Functional Category)

Communication masts refer to any type of mast used specifically to support communication equipment. They can be guyed, lattice, or monopole in design.

Applications:

  • Telecommunications (cellular networks)
  • Broadcasting (TV and radio)
  • Two-way radio systems (emergency services, security)
  • Internet services (rural or fixed wireless access)
  • Lighting (Solar & street lighting)

Design Selection: The choice of mast depends on factors such as:

  • Site size and conditions
  • Desired height
  • Load type (antennas, dishes)
  • Budget

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re planning a telecommunication project or structural installation, understanding the different types of masts—especially those used in communication—will help you choose the best option for your needs. The right mast ensures not only durability and performance but also safety and compliance with industry standards.

Need help choosing or fabricating the right mast for your project?

Reach out to us at Ambani Steel for expert guidance and custom solutions tailored to your requirements.

We provide:

Custom mast fabrication, Structural design and engineering, Foundation and civil works, Hot-dip galvanizing, On-site installation, Periodic maintenance and inspection

Whether you’re setting up a rural communication network or an urban surveillance system, Ambani Steel is your trusted partner in delivering durable, reliable, and efficient mast solutions.

Our  masts are engineered for easy transport and quick installation, making them suitable not only for projects in Kenya but also across borders in Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Rwanda, and Central Africa.

Contact us today to discuss your project and get a tailored quote.

Email; 📧 info@ambanisteel.com  Call/WhatsApp 📞 +254 787 513 734