Displacement of a cable in tension

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the horizontal deflection (U) of a vertical cable under an 800N tension when a horizontal force is applied at its midpoint (node A). The initial approach suggests treating the cable as a beam with fixed ends and a concentrated load at the center, emphasizing the importance of determining the cable's stiffness. The discussion also references the use of the formula FL/AE, assuming the cable is made of a homogeneous elastic material, and includes a helpful resource link for further understanding.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of beam theory and deflection calculations
  • Knowledge of cable stiffness and material properties
  • Familiarity with the formula FL/AE for elastic deformation
  • Basic principles of tension in cables
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the calculation of cable stiffness for non-homogeneous materials
  • Explore advanced beam deflection theories and their applications
  • Study the implications of concentrated loads on cable systems
  • Learn about the properties of elastic materials in engineering contexts
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Structural engineers, mechanical engineers, and anyone involved in the design and analysis of cable systems under tension.

andrewforsyth
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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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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:
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.
 

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