1. What is Catenary Tension?

The catenary is the curve that a hanging chain or cable assumes under its own weight when supported only at its ends. The tension calculation is crucial for designing suspension bridges, power lines, and other cable-supported structures.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the approximate catenary tension formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Tension in the cable (N)
• \( w \) — Weight per unit length (N/m)
• \( s \) — Sag of the cable (m)
• \( d \) — Half span length (m)

Note: This is an approximate formula. For precise calculations, the full catenary equation should be used.

3. Importance of Catenary Calculations

Details: Accurate tension calculations are essential for structural safety, determining appropriate cable materials, and ensuring proper sag in overhead lines.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between catenary and parabola?
A: While similar, a catenary is the shape a hanging chain makes under its own weight, while a parabola is the shape of a cable under uniform horizontal load.

Q2: When is this approximation valid?
A: This approximation works well when the sag is small compared to the span (typically sag/span ratio < 1:8).

Q3: What affects cable tension most?
A: Tension is most sensitive to changes in span length and weight per unit length.

Q4: How does temperature affect tension?
A: Higher temperatures increase sag and reduce tension, while colder temperatures decrease sag and increase tension.

Q5: What about horizontal vs vertical tension?
A: This formula gives the total tension. The horizontal component is constant along the cable, while the vertical component varies.