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In the global power transmission, communication, and renewable energy sectors, tower design plays a critical role in project efficiency, logistics, and long-term O&M costs. Among the most common tower types are tubular towers and lattice towers—each with distinct structural, technical, and commercial characteristics.
As industry professionals and procurement leaders know, choosing the right tower type is not just a matter of aesthetics or price, but one of engineering performance, project scope, and lifecycle optimization. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make informed sourcing decisions.
Tubular towers—also known as monopoles—are typically fabricated from hot-dip galvanized steel tubes, either in tapered or multi-sectioned segments. Their structure is solid, sleek, and vertically integrated, making them ideal for urban environments or space-constrained areas.
Lattice towers are assembled from multiple angular steel profiles, bolted or welded together in a truss-like framework. This structure distributes loads across multiple members, providing high strength-to-weight ratios and excellent performance in long-span transmission lines or harsh terrains.
Manufactured using bending and welding processes.
Typically pre-fabricated in sections at the factory.
Faster to erect on-site (minimal bolting required).
Lower labor intensity during installation.
Composed of hundreds of individual steel members.
More flexible for transport in remote or mountainous areas.
Require skilled assembly crews for on-site bolting.
Longer installation times, especially for tall or custom configurations.
Lattice towers generally offer higher load-bearing capacity, making them suitable for multi-circuit power lines, heavy communication equipment, or severe wind/ice zones.
Tubular towers provide adequate strength for medium loads but may require larger diameters or higher wall thickness for demanding applications, increasing cost and logistical burden.
| Feature | Tubular Tower | Lattice Tower |
Footprint | Small (ideal for cities) | Large (requires open land) |
Visual Impact | Minimalistic, modern | Industrial, functional |
Urban Approval | Easier due to aesthetics | More difficult in urban zones |
In urban power lines, street lighting, or telecom applications, tubular towers are often preferred for visual appeal and smaller ground coverage.
Lattice towers are more common in rural or intercity transmission lines, where aesthetics are less critical than functionality and cost-efficiency.
Bulkier, especially in large sizes.
Require flatbed trucks or special permits for oversized loads.
May present challenges in mountainous or remote regions.
Easier to pack and transport in containers or bundled sections.
Better suited for international shipping and off-grid projects.
Tubular structures are more resistant to corrosion and rust, especially when hot-dip galvanized with proper interior coatings. Their smooth surface also discourages bird nesting and dirt accumulation.
Lattice towers, with more connections and angular members, require more regular inspections and are more prone to corrosion at bolt joints and crevices.
| Category | Tubular Tower | Lattice Tower |
Material Cost | Higher (more steel per unit) | Lower (efficient steel use) |
Manufacturing Cost | Higher (welding, shaping) | Lower (angle steel is standard) |
Installation Cost | Lower (faster, less labor) | Higher (bolting, skilled labor) |
Maintenance Cost | Lower | Higher (frequent inspections) |
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) should be analyzed case-by-case, depending on:
Project size
Site location
Transport infrastructure
Local labor costs
| Application | Recommended Tower Type |
Urban transmission lines | Tubular |
High-voltage, long-span lines | Lattice |
Mountainous or remote terrains | Lattice |
Street lighting / 5G poles | Tubular |
Wind-prone or coastal areas | Depends on wind load & foundation |
Lattice towers offer more flexibility in customized heights and span requirements. They comply with IEC, ASTM, and national grid specifications globally.
Tubular towers are also standardized but may require custom tooling for non-standard heights or special cross-arms.
Ultimately, the choice between tubular towers and lattice towers should be driven by technical performance, logistics feasibility, and project-specific constraints.
Choose tubular towers if you need:
Clean appearance in urban settings
Fast installation and lower maintenance
Compact footprint
Choose lattice towers if you need:
High structural capacity
Better transportability for remote sites
Lower initial material cost
At Jintong Towers, we specialize in both custom-engineered lattice towers and high-precision tubular structures, backed by decades of fabrication and export experience. If you're unsure which solution fits your project best, our engineering and sales teams are ready to assist with tailored recommendations and quotes.
