Custom Diameter Folding Aluminum Tent Pole
A folding tent pole is a set of short aluminium tube sections threaded onto an elastic bungee cord. When the tent is pitched the cord pulls the sections together into one straight pole; when the tent comes down the sections fold at the joints and collapse into a small bundle for the bag. This replacement pole is offered in 8.5 mm, 9.5 mm and 11 mm diameters, each cut to order.
Choosing the Diameter
Diameter is the first decision, because it sets both the strength and the fit of the pole into the tent sleeve and the eyelets.
- 8.5 mm - light poles for small dome tents, children's tents and beach shelters.
- 9.5 mm - the general purpose size for three and four person dome and tunnel tents.
- 11 mm - heavier poles for larger tunnel tents and shelters that see more wind load.
A pole that is too thin will bend in a gust, while one that is too thick may not pass through the sleeve or fit the fittings, so matching the original diameter matters.
How a Folding Pole Is Built
Each section is cut from aluminium tube with a clean, square end, and the ends are de-burred so the cord and the neighbouring section slide freely. The bungee cord runs through the full set and is tied or capped at both ends, with a ferrule or end cap finishing the tips. Connections are usually straight ferrules, but angled ferrules can be fitted where the pole turns a corner at the tent ridge.
Measuring a Replacement Pole
The safest way to copy an existing pole is to measure the sections you already have. Note the outside diameter, the length of each section, the number of sections and the total extended length, and check whether the joints are straight or angled. If the old pole is bent, lay the sections out straight and measure the whole pole joint to joint; that total plus the section count is enough to reproduce it.
Typical Uses
- Replacement poles for dome, tunnel and cabin tents
- Beach, fishing and camping shelters
- Awning and canopy frames
- Gazebo and display frames
- Garden and play tents
Custom Supply
Sections can be cut to your exact length, supplied as a complete corded pole, or as loose replacement sections for a repair. Alloy and temper are chosen for the bending the pole will take, and the finish can be left as mill aluminium or anodized in silver, black or a colour. Send the diameter, section length, section count and finish you need, and we will make the folding pole to match.
