Transmission line design

This paper contains a complete mathematical analysis of the forces which determine the location in space of a cable suspended from points of equal elevation, and gives the designer and constructing engineer of a transmission line some useful working formulas based on this analysis. Section A of the paper covers the derivation of the catenary formulas and contains a chart from which any catenary problem may be quickly and accurately solved. Section B contains an analysis of the influences of changes in temperature and cable load, resulting in formulas by the aid of which the magnitude of these influences in regard to changes in position of the cable and changes in stresses at any point of the cable may be accurately computed. The formulas derived make it possible to plot a temperature-tension stringing chart to be used by the constructing engineer when stringing the cable at various temperatures. Section C is an investigation of the economic features involved in the proper design of the cable supports. A working formula is derived enabling the designer to determine the most economical span and corresponding height of tower. Solutions of typical design problems are given in each section of the paper demonstrating the use and manipulation of all formulas derived.