Suspension Bridge Stress Distribution (2D)

Horiz. thrust H-

Max cable tension-

Max cable stress-

Peak hanger force-

Tower reaction-

Suspension Bridge Stress Distribution

Span L (m) 140 m

Sag ratio d/L 10 %

Deck load w (kN/m) 35

Cable area A (cm²) 120

Hanger count 20

Point load P (kN) 200 kN

Load position (m) 70 m

Cable tension computed from parabolic-cable theory: H = wL²/8d (horizontal thrust), V(x) from shear equilibrium, T(x)=√(H²+V(x)²). A crossing point load P adds ΔH = Pab/(2dL) and its own shear reactions (a, b = distances to supports). Hanger forces are the tributary UDL share plus a load-spreading (triangular influence) share of P, normalised so the hangers' totals still balance the applied load.