Figure 4-1 - Cable Element Elasticity (Damped Spring Element Model):

A damped spring:
(1) connects the elements into an elastic chain. Free to rotate at node m+1 and constrained to slide along the axis of element m.
(2) Models the elastic elongation of each element due to tension using the linear relationship

Where:

k = spring constant

e = k T, and k = ( E A )/ s.

e = Elongation of spring due to T
T = Tension on the spring.

E = Elastic Modulus of cable
A = Cable axial cross-section
s = Segment length

Note: For most materials, an elongation greater than 3% is considered to be the onset of failure. Cables with straight conductors or with fiber-obtic strands are especially susceptible to elastic failure. Refer to manufacturer’s mechanical specification for maximum allowable elongation