Cable Anchor Force

The Cable Anchor Force calculator estimates the force applied to the anchor points on a length of cable based on the span, sag and weight of cable.

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (L) Length of Span
• (h) Height of Sag
• (CLW) Cable Load Weight per foot

Cable Anchor Force (CAF): The load force is returned in pounds.  However, this can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

The weight of a cable applies the same force on both horizontal anchor points. Since the gravitational force on a cable creates a parabolic shape, the formula for the load on a cable at the end points is:

CAF = CLW⋅L²/(8*h)

where

• CAF = Cable Anchor Force
• h = height of the sag 
• L = length of span
• CLW = Cable Load Weight per liner foot

Cable Calculators

• Length of Cable with Sag
• Cable Anchor Force
• Mid-span Cable Tension