Today was our first full day of field operations. Accomplishments include further unpacking and organizing, confirming tower locations and site layout, linking 35ft tower sections for raising, setting auger anchors, organizing guy wire sets and performing pull test on auger anchors. "Non-accomplishments" include missing items to complete manta anchoring, low pull test results on auger anchors, bolts not fully captured by nylock nuts and not packing a few crucial tools.
Solutions: We contacted Williams Form about the missing items for anchoring and they assure us the items can be provided (via pickup in Golden, CO). We hope to be setting anchors soon. The pull test on auger anchors came out to 700ft/lb (+/-100ft/lb). Doubling auger anchors will increase load tolerance (we tension to 400ft/lb). The bolts we use to link tower sections can be used without washers (nylock nut is being used). Removal of washer will give us enough thread to capture safely. Chris and I went to the hardware store to pick up items other items we need.
The Ace Hardware is open until 9pm.