Mechanical Properties of Structural Cables

Structural cables have been used as a building component since 685 B.C. but only recently have excited engineers to the application of cables to building and bridge designs. The advantage of structural cables as an economical tension member for bridges and buildings has prompted new design concepts of cable-stayed bridges and cable-supported roof structures. The expanded application of cables has resulted in the development by ASTM of Standards for structural strand and rope. The mechanical properties of strand, rope and preassembled parallel wire strands are presented in general terms. The manufacturing, fabrication, and connection of the ASTM Structural Cables are described to provide the engineer with an understanding of the products. A description of the manufacture and application of preassembled parallel wire strands is presented as the newest development for cable-stayed bridges and buildings.