Steel Telecommunication Poles: STEL Standards for Digital Infrastructure  

November 21, 2025
Hello Pipe Enthusiasts! 
 
In this edition of #SEAPIPipeInsights!, let’s take a closer look at steel telecommunication poles, one of the essential components in building Indonesia’s telephone and fiber optic networks. These products are designed in accordance with the Telecommunication Specifications (STEL), which serve as technical guidelines in the national telecommunication industry.  

What is STEL?
 
STEL (Telecommunication Specifications) is a technical standard applied to telecommunication equipment in Indonesia. For steel poles, STEL regulates:  
  • Dimensions and pole length
  • Steel materials used
  • Fabrication and welding methods
  • Corrosion protection (galvanization or protective coating)
  • Mechanical testing (bending test, straightness, dimensional tolerance)  
With STEL in place, the quality and safety of steel telecommunication poles are assured in compliance with regulations.  

STEL Specifications for Steel Poles
 
Several STEL documents relevant to steel telecommunication poles include:  
  • STEL L-003-2016 V.3.0 – Steel pole with joint
  • STEL L-003-2021 V.4.0 – Steel pole with joint (latest version)
  • STEL L-079-2020 V.1.0 – 6-meter galvanized pole without joint
  • STEL L-085-2022 V.1.0 – 7-meter steel pole with 2 segments for distribution cables
  • STEL L-086-2023 V.1.0 – 6-meter steel telecommunication pole  
These documents serve as key references to ensure steel telecommunication poles meet the demands of modern networks.  

Technical Characteristics of Steel Telecommunication Poles
  
  • Structural strength: meets bending standard ≥ 245 MPa.
  • Corrosion resistance: protected with galvanization or coating.
  • Dimensional precision: thickness and diameter tolerances comply with STEL standards.
  • Quality certification: ISO 9001:2015
Fabrication & Testing Process  
Key stages include:  
  • Production: steel telecommunication poles are manufactured using high-quality steel pipes according to the required type. Unlike steel poles for electricity, these products are officially referred to as steel poles.
  • Fabrication: steel pipes are produced and assembled into segments (if jointed). 
  • Welding: performed using electrodes that comply with applicable standards.
  • Protection: galvanization or protective coating for long-term durability.
  • Mechanical testing: straightness test, bending test, and dimensional/weight measurement  
Conclusion  
By understanding STEL and its application to steel telecommunication poles, we can see how technical standards play a vital role in supporting Indonesia’s digital infrastructure. This educational piece aims to provide SEAPI readers with insights into the importance of quality standards in every component of telecommunication networks. 
 
If you require steel pipes for telecommunication and fiber optic poles, or steel pipes for other applications, trust Southeast Asia Pipe Industries to deliver.  
Whatsapp icon