Tension At Supports For UDL On Parabolic Cable Calculator

Tension at Supports Formula:

\[ T_s = \sqrt{(T_{mid}^2) + \left( \frac{q \times L_{span}}{2} \right)^2} \]

Tension at Midspan (Tmid):

Newton

Uniformly Distributed Load (q):

Newton per Meter

Cable Span (Lspan):

Meter

Tension at Supports (Ts):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Tension at Supports for UDL on Parabolic Cable?

Tension at Supports refers to the total tension force acting on the support points of a parabolic cable under uniformly distributed load. This calculation is crucial in structural engineering for determining the forces that cable supports must withstand.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ T_s = \sqrt{(T_{mid}^2) + \left( \frac{q \times L_{span}}{2} \right)^2} \]

Where:

\( T_s \) — Tension at Supports (Newton)
\( T_{mid} \) — Tension at Midspan (Newton)
\( q \) — Uniformly Distributed Load (Newton per Meter)
\( L_{span} \) — Cable Span (Meter)

Explanation: The formula calculates the resultant tension at supports by combining the tension at midspan with the vertical component of the load distributed along the cable span.

3. Importance of Tension Calculation

Details: Accurate tension calculation at supports is essential for structural design, ensuring cable systems can safely carry intended loads without failure or excessive deformation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter tension at midspan in Newtons, uniformly distributed load in Newton per Meter, and cable span in Meters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a parabolic cable?
A: A parabolic cable is a cable that takes the shape of a parabola under uniformly distributed load, commonly used in suspension bridges and cable-supported structures.

Q2: Why is tension different at supports and midspan?
A: Tension varies along the cable due to the vertical component of forces. Supports experience higher tension because they must resist both horizontal and vertical force components.

Q3: What factors affect cable tension?
A: Cable tension is affected by the magnitude of distributed load, cable span length, cable sag, and support conditions.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This calculation provides a good approximation for ideal parabolic cables with uniform loading. Real-world applications may require additional considerations for factors like temperature changes and non-uniform loading.

Q5: Can this formula be used for non-parabolic cables?
A: This specific formula is derived for parabolic cables under uniformly distributed load. Other cable shapes or loading conditions require different mathematical approaches.