1. What Is The Catenary Cable Tension Formula?

The catenary cable tension formula calculates the horizontal tension in a suspended cable or chain. It's based on the mathematical curve formed by a uniform cable hanging under its own weight between two fixed points.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the catenary tension formula:

Where:

• \( H \) — Horizontal tension (Newtons)
• \( w \) — Weight per unit length (N/m)
• \( S \) — Span length between supports (m)
• \( d \) — Sag or vertical drop at midpoint (m)

Explanation: This formula assumes a shallow catenary where the cable weight is uniformly distributed along the horizontal span.

3. Importance Of Horizontal Tension Calculation

Details: Calculating horizontal tension is essential for designing overhead power lines, suspension bridges, cable-supported structures, and other engineering applications involving suspended cables.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter weight per unit length in N/m, span length in meters, and sag in meters. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a catenary curve?
A: A catenary is the natural curve that a flexible chain or cable forms under its own weight when supported only at its ends.

Q2: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula works best for shallow catenaries where the sag is small compared to the span length (typically less than 10% of the span).

Q3: What factors affect cable tension?
A: Cable tension is influenced by the cable's weight, span length, sag, temperature changes, and additional loads like ice or wind.

Q4: How does sag affect tension?
A: Greater sag reduces horizontal tension, while less sag increases it. There's an inverse relationship between sag and tension.

Q5: What's the difference between horizontal and total tension?
A: Horizontal tension is constant along the cable, while total tension varies and is maximum at the supports where vertical components are added.