Cable Anchor Force Formula |
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| \( CAF \;=\; CW \cdot \dfrac{ L^2 }{ 8 \cdot h } \) |
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| Symbol | English | Metric |
| \( CAF \) = Cable Anchor Force | \(lbf\) | \(N\) |
| \( CW \) = Weight of Cable | \(lb\) | \(kg\) |
| \( L \) = Length of Span | \(ft\) | \(m\) |
| \( h \) = Height of Cable Sag | \(ft\) | \(m\) |
Cable anchor force, abbreviated as \(CAF\), is the mechanical load exerted on an anchoring point due to the tension in a cable. This force is important because it ensures that the cable remains in place and structurally secure, especially in overhead installations, such as aerial fiber-optic cables, coaxial cables, or telephone lines.
Key Factors Affecting Cable Anchor Force
Cable Tension - The tension within the cable, caused by factors like cable weight, external environmental forces (wind, ice, etc.), and temperature fluctuations, directly contributes to the anchor force.
Span Length - The distance between two support structures (poles or towers) determines how much force is exerted on the anchoring points.
Cable Weight - Heavier cables, such as those with additional reinforcement, will exert more force on the anchor points.
Environmental Conditions - Wind load, ice accumulation, and temperature changes can increase the tension in the cable, thus increasing the anchor force.
Anchoring Equipment - The quality and specifications of the anchors (dead-end anchors, guy grips) must be designed to handle the calculated force without failure.
