Displacement of a cable in tension

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem of calculating the horizontal deflection of a cable under tension with a horizontal load applied at its midpoint. One approach is to treat it as a beam with fixed ends and a concentrated load, while another suggests using a string equation and considering the stiffness of the cable. A helpful link is provided and the possibility of using FL/AE for a homogeneous elastic material is mentioned.
  • #1
andrewforsyth
2
0
I have been stumped by this problem...

If you have a vertial cable under tension of say 800N and you apply a horizontal tension at its mid point (node A), how can you calculate the horizontal deflection U of node A??

Can't wait to solve this!

A
 
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  • #2
As a first pass I'd treat it like any other beam with fixed ends and a concentrated load in the center. The trick is to calculate the stiffness of the cable. This could really depend on the make up of the cable since most cables are not homogeneous and isotropic.

In a quicker solution, I just did a search:
http://www.hago.org.uk/faqs/formulae-2.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
That was a really helpful link, esp with such a short description of the problem. Thanks. I wonder if maybe the same string equation could be applied but using FL/AE. Assuming homogeneous elastic material was used for the cable.

Thanks again.
 

1. What is meant by displacement of a cable in tension?

The displacement of a cable in tension refers to the change in position of a cable when it is pulled or stretched by a force. This displacement can be measured in terms of length, usually in units of meters.

2. What causes a cable to experience displacement in tension?

Cables experience displacement in tension when they are subjected to a force that pulls them in opposite directions, causing them to stretch or elongate. This force can come from external factors such as weight or tension applied to the cable, or from internal factors such as thermal expansion.

3. How is the displacement of a cable in tension calculated?

The displacement of a cable in tension can be calculated using the formula ΔL = FL/AE, where ΔL is the change in length, F is the applied force, A is the cross-sectional area of the cable, and E is the Young's modulus of the material the cable is made of.

4. What are the factors that affect the displacement of a cable in tension?

The displacement of a cable in tension is affected by various factors such as the magnitude of the applied force, the length and diameter of the cable, the material it is made of, and the environmental conditions it is subjected to.

5. How is the displacement of a cable in tension important in practical applications?

The displacement of a cable in tension is an important factor to consider in various practical applications, such as building suspension bridges, cranes, and elevators. It is also used in engineering and construction to determine the strength and stability of structures where cables are used for support or tension.

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