The Corrosion Severity Factor (CSF) was developed to enable the inspector in the field to easily transmit a description of the corrosion condition of a buried steel tower anchor. The CSF is determined by the following criteria
The CSF Rating is determined by the worst part of the anchor!
CSF 1:
Galvanizing in tact, no signs of rust, no cross sectional material loss. Anchors rated CSF 1 should be monitored in the future during regular tower inspections.
![]() |
![]() |
CSF 2:
Galvanizing slightly to mostly gone, rust spots prevalent, minor pitting or flaking, no cross sectional material loss. Additional corrosion control is highly recommended.
![]() |
![]() |
CSF 3:
Galvanizing mostly to completely gone, heavily corroded, deep pitting, large areas of flaking, measurable cross sectional material loss. Anchors rated CSF 3 require additional corrosion control methods and may require repair or replacement.
![]() |
![]() |
Replacement may be warranted. The CSF can help you determine the necessity of installing AnchorGuard®. If a CSF of 2 is found at a depth of two feet below grade, AnchorGuard is recommended. When a CSF of 3 or higher is found at a depth of two feet below grade on any tower, further inspection is highly advisable and installation of AnchorGuard is recommended.