MATERIALS VS PERFORMANCE

1.  ALUMINIUM
Advantages:
Super low cost to manufacture
Low retail price

Disadvantages:
Heavy to transport (usually 15kg plus)
Heavy to push and extend upward
Mostly un-useable without a tripod
Cannot extend very high (15-30ft model dependent)

Conclusion: 
This type of mast is designed to be used only as a light stand, but is often re-purposed and retailed as a low-cost aerial camera pole system – but is still not suitable for aerial surveys above 30ft

2. FIBERGLASS (100%)
Advantages:
Low retail price
Does not conduct electricity

Disadvantages:
Heavier than carbon fiber composites and 100% carbon fiber
Flexible
Unstable in windy conditions

Conclusion:
Unstable for aerial photography in windy conditions

3.CARBON FIBRE COMPOSITES
Advantages:
Lower retail price than 100% carbon fiber
Stiffer than 100% fiberglass
lighter than 100% fiberglass

Disadvantages:
Heavy material than 100% carbon fiber
Slightly flexible under load
Slightly unsteady in windy conditions

Conclusion:
Competitive price with proper top load and suitable for most applications.

4. 100% CARBON FIBRE - STANDARD MODULUS CARBON FIBER + UD OUTER SURFACE
Advantages:
Much stiffer than carbon fiber composites
Much stronger and stiffer
Much lighter

Disadvantages:
More expensive to manufacture
Conducts electricity (avoid power lines and facilities)

Conclusion:
Safer, more stable, and more suitable for working in windy condition

5.100% CARBON FIBRE - HIGH MODULUS CARBON FIBER + 3K OUTER SURFACE
Advantages:
Super strength, stiffness, stability
13 m camera pole can safely support 4kg top load

Disadvantages:
Expensive of higher modulus material (We used Toray carbon fiber)
Expensive to manufacture
Conducts Electricity (avoid power lines and facilities)
Higher retail price

Conclusion:
The professional camera pole system of accurate aerial inspection, landscape survey, etc.