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The span of a cable refers to the total horizontal distance between its two supports. For a uniformly distributed load (UDL) on a catenary parabolic cable, the span can be directly calculated from the catenary parameter.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula demonstrates that the cable span is exactly twice the value of the catenary parameter for a uniformly distributed load on a catenary parabolic cable.
Details: Accurate calculation of cable span is essential for structural engineering applications, particularly in the design and analysis of cable-supported structures such as bridges, transmission lines, and suspension systems.
Tips: Enter the catenary parameter value in meters. The value must be greater than zero for valid calculation.
Q1: What is a catenary parameter?
A: The catenary parameter is a factor that characterizes the shape of a hanging cable under uniform load, representing the horizontal tension divided by the weight per unit length.
Q2: Why is the span exactly twice the catenary parameter?
A: This relationship holds specifically for catenary parabolic cables under uniformly distributed load, where the mathematical derivation shows that the horizontal distance between supports equals twice the catenary parameter.
Q3: What are typical units for these measurements?
A: Both cable span and catenary parameter are typically measured in meters (m) in the International System of Units.
Q4: Does this formula apply to all types of cables?
A: This specific formula applies only to catenary parabolic cables with uniformly distributed load. Different cable configurations may require different formulas.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation for real-world applications?
A: The calculation provides a theoretical value that serves as a good approximation for engineering purposes, though actual installations may require adjustments for factors such as temperature variations, material properties, and installation tolerances.