Autocalc 2.0: User Guide

AUTOCALC 2.
0
User Guide
29 MAY 2018
By Jake Hexum and Eric Brezinka
Rev 0
AUTOCALC 2.0 USER GUIDE
Table of Contents
OVERVIEW..................................................................................................................................................... 4
1. RECORDS AND REFERENCES.................................................................................................................. 5
1.1. INSTRUCTIONS .............................................................................................................................. 5
1.2. PROJECT INFO ............................................................................................................................... 5
1.3. CALCULATION RECORD ................................................................................................................. 6
1.3.1. PRINT OUTPUT ...................................................................................................................... 6
1.4. REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................. 6
1.4.1. PRINT OUTPUT ...................................................................................................................... 6
1.5. PRINT OUTPUT BUTTON ............................................................................................................... 6
2. INPUTS AND TABLES.............................................................................................................................. 7
2.1. INPUT ............................................................................................................................................ 7
2.1.1. LOAD CASE SELECTION .......................................................................................................... 7
2.1.2. WIRE DATA .......................................................................................................................... 10
2.1.3. INITIAL WIRE TENSION ........................................................................................................ 15
2.1.4. WEIGHT SPANS.................................................................................................................... 15
2.1.5. CABLE VECTORS GRAPHIC ................................................................................................... 17
2.1.6. PRINT OUTPUT .................................................................................................................... 18
2.2. INPUT – LOAD ADJUSTMENTS..................................................................................................... 18
2.2.1. LOADING ADJUSTMENT ...................................................................................................... 18
2.2.2. NET ADJUSTMENT ADDED TO LOAD TABLE ........................................................................ 22
2.2.3. PRINT OUTPUT .................................................................................................................... 22
2.3. LOAD TABLE ................................................................................................................................ 23
2.3.1. STRUCTURE LOAD TABLE .................................................................................................... 23
2.3.2. REFINE STRUCTURE LOAD TABLE ........................................................................................ 23
2.3.3. REFINED LOAD TABLE .......................................................................................................... 25
2.3.4. PRINT OUTPUT .................................................................................................................... 25
2.4. REACTIONS .................................................................................................................................. 25
2.4.1. POLE PROPERTIES................................................................................................................ 25
2.4.2. POLE ESTIMATION............................................................................................................... 26
2.4.3. WIRE ATTACHMENT LOCATIONS ........................................................................................ 31
BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 2
2.4.4. GROUND LINE REACTIONS .................................................................................................. 32

2.4.5. PRINT OUTPUT .................................................................................................................... 32
3. UTILITIES.............................................................................................................................................. 33
3.1. LCA WRITER ................................................................................................................................. 33
3.2. TABLE INPUT ............................................................................................................................... 33
3.2.1. GENERATE AUTOCALC FILES ............................................................................................... 34
3.2.2. SAVE TO TABLE .................................................................................................................... 35
3.2.3. LOAD FROM TABLE.............................................................................................................. 35
3.2.4. DELETE TABLE INPUTS ......................................................................................................... 36
3.2.5. TABLE NAVIGATION ............................................................................................................ 36
4. TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................................................................ 37
4.1. MICROSOFT VISUAL BASIC WARNINGS....................................................................................... 37
4.2. CHECKING THE LOADING TABLE ................................................................................................. 38
5. APPENDIX ............................................................................................................................................ 39
5.1. LOAD ADJUSTMENT HELP MENUS .............................................................................................. 39
5.1.1. VERTICAL LOAD % MAX TENSION (%) ................................................................................. 39
5.1.2. VERTICAL LOAD (LBS) .......................................................................................................... 40
5.1.3. SNUB LOAD (°) ..................................................................................................................... 41
5.1.4. LONGITUDINAL LOAD % MAX TENSION (%)........................................................................ 42
5.1.5. LONGITUDINAL LOAD (LBS)................................................................................................. 43

Transmission Line Structure Loading using AutoCalc 2.0

OVERVIEW
AutoCalc 2.0 is a design software developed by Black & Veatch using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA)
programming within the Microsoft Office Excel framework. The primary function of the software is to
perform overhead transmission line point load calculations for structure design purposes.
The design loading calculation operation contains a robust list of supported functionalities including:
Function New Improved

Pre-populated load case delection ●
Integrated application of OLF, radial ice, pole and wire wind including pole shape factor ●
Pre-populated wire selection database including wire weight and wind profile information ●
The ability to attach a wire using both intact and deadend configurations under different load cases ●
Auto sensing intact or deadend configurations, with color coded highlighting for user feedback ●
Real time display of load vectors, both intact and deadend, incl. customizable display setting by load case ●
Design weight span values by individual wire and load case (optional) ●
Integrated point load adjustment for vertical and longitudinal stringing and containment loads ●
-by wire and load case ●
-by % max tension, absolute load value, or snub angle ●
-with or without load case defined overload factors ●
-with load adjustment settings wizard dialog box and help menu ●
-with real time feedback of load adjustment input setting and calculated adjustment values ●
Unmodified complete load calculation values ●
The ability to apply addition and rounding ●
Customizable table compiled to load tree drawing format ●
In addition to the primary loading calculation operation, the software now features numerous additional
related functions:
Function New Improved

Pole geometry estimator, base and tip diameters for wind calc and foundation size estimation ●
Base reactions for foundation estimating ●
Reactions based on design loading table, including point load adjustments and rounding ●
Reaction tables for ranges of heights within a structure family ●
Self-supported monopole weight estimating ●
Batch processing of load tables, weight estimates, reaction tables ●
LCA file writer ●
Master file table creation with ability to import/export any previously created structure class at will ●
This guide can be used as a set of instructions that will escort the user through each of the functions that
can be performed using the AutoCalc 2.0 program, as well as a general reference for more in-depth
information on some of the behind the scenes calculations taking place.
The sections of the guide are grouped and arranged in sequence the same way that the visible tabs are
grouped and arranged from left to right. The first group of four blue tabs can be reviewed one tab at a
time under the RECORDS AND REFERENCES heading in sections 1.1 through 1.4 of this document. The
second group of four green tabs will be most useful to new users and can be reviewed under the INPUTS
AND TABLES heading in sections 2.1 through 2.4 of this document. The third group of two orange tabs
can be found under the UTILITIES heading in sections 3.1 through 3.2. These utilities can be harnessed
by advanced users for more powerful potential of the software.
It should be noted that although this guide does cover each tab visible to the user, the actual
programming that makes the software work is not visible and cannot be accessed by the user. It is not
the intent of this guide to cover the programming side of this software. The intent of this guide is to
provide instruction regarding proper use of the program, and to document methods and formulas used.
This guide attempts to provide complete transparency regarding the verifiable actions that the software
performs. These actions produce calculations and output data useful for design. In addition, this guide
acknowledges limitations of the data produced. The user shall be responsible for understanding these
limitations and verify that the result produced using this tool is fit for the purpose that the user intends.
1. RECORDS AND REFERENCES

The RECORDS AND REFERENCES section covers the four blue tabs in the AutoCalc 2.0 program. A fifth
section is included as a guide of the print function. These tabs are of interest to users wanting to use the
program for the creation of a calculation file for compliance with B&V calculation assembly and
formatting requirements.
1.1. INSTRUCTIONS
This tab contains an overview of the purpose of the AutoCalc 2.0 program. In addition to this
information, use this tab to find the AutoCalc program version number and contact information of
the owner of the software should any issues arise. It is important to note that this software has not
been tested for compatibility with Microsoft Excel versions earlier than 2010.
1.2. PROJECT INFO

Use this tab to input basic information regarding the project. Inputs on this page are used to
generate headers on all tabs that are printed when the user executes any of the Print Output
buttons. See section 1.5 for printing guidance.

1.3. CALCULATION RECORD

This tab is the standard Black & Veatch Calculation Record form that is required with every project.
The form is automatically populated with data from the Project Info tab, so it is important to fill the
Project Info tab out completely. Additional information can be entered directly into the
assumptions, review and approval parts of the table.
1.3.1. PRINT OUTPUT

A Print Output button is present on this tab. See section 1.5 for a guide on printing using this
button.
1.4. REFERENCES
This tab keeps a record of all references used to generate the AutoCalc program inputs. Be sure to
include all client specific guides and specifications. Listed below are examples of references that may
be included. Be sure to reference the correct edition in all cases.
• National Electric Safety Code C2-2012

• ASCE 48-11
• Guide for Calculating Design Loads for Overhead Transmission Line – B&V Guide # Energy-Gid-3-
03112-06011
• Energy College Transmission Line Design Guide – September 2008
1.4.1. PRINT OUTPUT

button.
1.5. PRINT OUTPUT BUTTON

The Print Output button shows up on two of the RECORDS AND REFERENCES tabs (Calc Record and
References) as well as all four of the INPUT AND TABLES tabs (Input, Input - Load Adjustments,
Load Table, and Reactions). The button activates a dialog box that allows the user to print any of the
aforementioned tabs in a single document set. The printed document set is a full record of the
structure loading inputs and results printed for ease of compiling the loading calculation file.
(Instructions for the creation of the loading calculation file are not covered in this guide.) Some
users may choose to not use the load adjustments or reactions functions of the software, and thus
may choose to exclude those tabs from the printed record. Other users may choose to print input
tabs only and add their own calculation record and references forms. This customization of printed
output format to comply with B&V calculation assembly and formatting requirements is made easy
via use of this function (see figure below).

2. INPUTS AND TABLES

The INPUT AND TABLES section covers the four green tabs in the AutoCalc 2.0 program. These four tabs
will be of primary interest to users, as they are necessary for core calculation functions.
2.1. INPUT
2.1.1. LOAD CASE SELECTION

Select the applicable load cases to be considered. This is usually based on the structure type
(e.g. Tangent/Angle, Containment, or Deadend).
Load case data is broken down into three categories: Load Case Definition, Overload Factors,
and Pole Criteria.

2.1.1.1. Load Case Definition

The Load Case Definition contains Description, Temperature, Radial Ice, and Wire Wind
Pressure data entries. The Temperature, Radial Ice, and Wire Wind Pressure are used to
describe the mechanical loading imposed on the wire for each weather case. The Radial Ice
and Wire Wind Pressure values are used for calculation of the vertical and horizontal loading
at the wire attachment points. Note that the wire wind pressure populated in the load cases
database for any weather case using NESC C2 Rule 250 C Extreme Wind Loading has not
been calculated to be project specific. It is impossible to know in advance what wind
pressure is appropriate for any specific wire subjected to this loading condition without first
knowing, among various other factors, the height and span data. The user is responsible for
calculating the project specific wire wind pressure values and not relying on the pre-
populated wire wind pressure in the load case database.
NOTE: When calculating wire wind pressure for a group of structures under NESC Rule 250 C,
it is our recommendation that the user should select the height of the tallest structure paired
with the maximum design wind span. Selecting the height of the tallest structure paired with
the shortest wind span in the group will result in higher than necessary wind pressures being
applied.
2.1.1.2. Overload Factors

The overload factor inputs in the Load Case Selection table are comprised of different
entries for Transverse Wind, Vertical, and Wire Tension (Transverse and Longitudinal). These
overload factors are used in the software for all load calculations. (Exception: The user has
the ability to override the overload factor and use 1.0 OLF for point load adjustments if
desired.)
2.1.1.3. Pole Criteria

The pole criteria inputs in the Load Case Selection table are comprised of Pole Shape Factor
and Pole Wind Pressure. Neither value is used in the calculation of any point loads. Pole
Wind Pressure is used to populate the load table for communication to the pole designer.
Both values are used for estimating reactions and pole weights. Note that the pole wind
pressure populated in the load cases database for any weather case using NESC C2 Rule 250
C Extreme Wind Loading has not been calculated to be project specific. Pole wind pressure
under this loading condition varies with structure height. The user is responsible for
calculating the project specific pole wind pressure values and not relying on the pre-
populated pole wind pressure in the load case database.
If the load cases are already entered and appear in the dropdown menu, they should be
cross-checked against the client’s specific requirements. If the user would like to use a load
case that does not appear in the list for selection, the user may add load cases by selecting
the Edit Load Cases button below the Load Case Selection table:

It is important that users of various client teams have load case selections available to them
that fit their work. There are efficiency and quality benefits for users to have verified load
cases available to choose from that are specific to their work. Note that uncontrolled local
copies of the software that have been modified with user specific information such as load
cases, could become corrupted or contain unintended entries that go unnoticed when used
from job to job. These uncontrolled copies also will not be kept up to date as new versions
are made available through the Chief Engineer’s Calculation Templates site. It is suggested
that if users are entering client specific load cases that are to be used on a repeated basis,
that the user contact the custodian of this software. The custodian will make the needed
load cases available in the next version of the software.
NOTE: Wind Pressure—It is always necessary to verify the wind pressure used in load cases
per the clients requirements. Load cases such as “Extreme Wind” or “Wind on Structure
Only”, for example, may require the user to manually calculate a wind pressure based on a
representative structure height and a representative wind span for the structure group.
NOTE: Duplicate Load Case—When using the software to produce drawing ready load tables,
a common practice is to enter duplicates of load cases with different point load adjustments
applied to each. Examples would be stringing load cases where different sets of wires have
non-concurrent vertical stringing load adjustments, or longitudinal containment load cases
with broken conductor adjustments applied non-concurrently (i.e. a different adjustment in
each of the duplicate load cases). The software will give a notice if there are duplicate load
cases entered. This note is to alert the user if the load case duplication was unintentional,
but is not in any way meant to discourage the practice of using multiple occurrences of the
same load case for drawing ready load tables. Also note that if the method of individual load
adjustments over multiple duplicate load cases is not used for true final load table
representation of these cases, then the steel pole weight estimating, reaction estimating,
and base diameter estimating can all become skewed (i.e. bad data). If the user is using any
of these estimating functions or creating LCA files, the user should not, for example, apply all
longitudinal containment loads concurrently in the software under a single load case and
then split the load table into individual non-concurrent load cases outside of the software. If
this is done, the estimating functions and LCA files will consider all longitudinal containment
loads acting concurrently on the structure as the user has specified.

2.1.2. WIRE DATA
Enter wire data in this section. This is a section where the user enters general wire information
(Description, Type, Conductors per Phase, & Shape Factor). The purple section is for inputs
pertaining to cases where the wire is intact. Cells in this section of the table will highlight purple
when the user enters tensions for that wire in BOTH the Span 1 and Span 2 section of the Initial
Wire Tensions (lbs) table below. The green section is for inputs pertaining to cases where the
wire is dead-ended. Cells in this section of the table will highlight green when the user enters
tensions for that wire in ONLY the Span 1 or Span 2 section of the Initial Wire Tensions (lbs)
table below. The highlighting indicates that the entered data is being used by the software in its
calculations. If wire data in either the intact or deadend columns are not highlighted, then the
software has determined that the non-highlighted condition of the wire does not occur at that
attachment. (Example: A wire with no deadend occurrences under any load case will not show
green highlighting for that wire under Deadend Wire Angle, Deadend Hardware Weight, or
Deadend Wind Span.)
NOTE: Purple and highlighting will not be applied until wire tensions are added. The presence of
a wire tension in both ahead and back spans determines that an attachment is intact, whereas
the presence of a wire tension in one direction only determines that an attachment is a deadend.
2.1.2.1. Description
The description is used to distinguish wires of the same type and has no effect on the
calculations. The user may select a description from the dropdown list or type directly into
the cell to enter their own description.
2.1.2.2. Type
The wire type is chosen from a drop down list of wires contained in the wire list. The
Diameter (in) and Wt. (lb/ft) columns on the Input tab automatically populate with
information from the Conductor list when a wire type is selected.
If a wire does not exist in the list, the user may add it to the list of conductors in the local
file copy of the AutoCalc program by selecting the Edit Conductor List button located below
the Wire Data section:

This will bring up the conductor list. The user can then add or modify an existing wire per
the project’s needs. Once a wire is added to the Conductor List, it will be available for
selection in the Wire Data table.
For any wires being added that could have their use repeated in the future, the user should
contact the software custodian so that the wire can be included in the next software
update.
NOTE: The user shall be responsible for verification of the accuracy of any wire data selected.
The wire data available for selection from the Conductor List is legacy information and has
not been verified.
2.1.2.3. Cond. Per Phase

Enter the number of wires per phase in this column. For example, enter “2” if you have
double bundled conductor or “3” for triple bundled conductor. This will be used in the load
calculated for each of the wires entered in the Wire Data section.
2.1.2.4. Shape Factor

In most cases, this value is “1”. This value is used in the loading calculation to increase the
transverse load due to wind on the wires by a factor of the value that is entered.
2.1.2.5. Intact Line Angle (Ø)

The line angle entered here will be used for any wire that has tensions entered in both Span
1 and Span 2 of the Initial Wire Tensions table. Values that are in use once the Initial Wire
Tensions table has been filled in will be highlighted purple. A graphic has been provided to
illustrate how the line angle is used in the calculation. The Intact Line Angle (Ø) is divided by
two and applied from the longitudinal axis as defined in the Cable Vectors graphic.

The example below shows an example of Ø=60°:
NOTE: It is important to be aware that wind in the AutoCalc program is always applied in the
positive transverse axis (+T) and will counteract the forces produced by the tension in the
wire if a negative (-) value is entered for the intact line angle. This may be needed for unique
structures, but in general, intact line angle should be entered as a positive (+) value.

2.1.2.6. Intact Hardware Wt.

The value that is added here is applied to the Vertical Load and increased by the overload
factors for each weather case.
NOTE: If a wire is being used for both the ahead and back spans under an intact load case on
a deadend structure, be sure to account for the hardware weight of both the ahead and back
spans (ex. Intact case = 600 lb hardware weight; deadend Case = 300 lb hardware weight).
2.1.2.7. Intact Wind Span

Wind Span is used in determining Transverse Load due to wind blowing on the wires. In the
AutoCalc program, wind is always applied in the positive (+) transverse direction. The
correlation between ahead & back spans vs. Span 1 & Span 2 should be determined based
on which approach will provide the highest resulting load on the structure (see Intact Line
Angle and Deadend Line Angle sections of this guide for more clarification). Intact Wind
Span (ft) should include the length of wire in BOTH the ahead and back spans that
contributes to the transverse load on the structure. This length is typically ½ the ahead span
plus ½ the back span.
2.1.2.8. Deadend Line Angle (δ)

The line angle entered here will be used for any wire that has tensions entered in ONLY Span
1 or ONLY Span 2 sections of the Initial Wire Tensions table. Values that are in use once the
Initial Wire Tensions table has been filled in will be highlighted green. A graphic has been
provided to illustrate how the line angle is used in the calculation. The Deadend Line Angle
(δ) is applied from the (+) longitudinal axis as defined in the Cable Vectors graphic for
deadends in Span 1 and from the (-) longitudinal axis for deadends in Span 2.

The example below shows an example of δ =60° when tensions are entered for only Span 1:
NOTE: For greatest wind projection of the wire, the user may decide to enter δ =0°
design line angle for a deadend case regardless of the design line angle used for the
intact case.
2.1.2.9. Deadend Hardware Wt.

The value that is input here is applied to the Vertical Load and increased by the overload
factors for each weather case.
NOTE: The weight used for a deadend case may only include the hardware attached to the
wire that is dead-ended, or it may include full hardware weight if the structure is framed
with hardware for a future connection as part of staged construction. Input the weight of the
ahead span deadend insulator AND/OR the back span deadend insulator.
2.1.2.10. Deadend Wind Span

Wind Span is used in determining Transverse Load due to wind blowing on the wires. In the
AutoCalc program, wind is always applied in the positive (+) transverse direction. The
correlation between ahead and back spans vs. Span 1 and Span 2 should be determined
based on which approach will provide the highest resulting load on the structure (see Intact
Line Angle and Deadend Line Angle sections of this guide for more clarification). The
Deadend Wind Span (ft) should include ONLY the length of wire that contributes to the
transverse load on the side of the structure that is dead-ended. This length is typically ½ of
whichever span is connected to the structure.

2.1.3. INITIAL WIRE TENSION

Enter the tensions for each unique wire from the sag-tension report. Whether Initial or Creep
conditions are used depends on the client’s loading criteria. Span 1 and Span 2 can be thought
of as Ahead and Back or vice-versa.
2.1.3.1. Entering DE Wires

To enter dead-ended wires, simply put tensions in only Span 1 or Span 2. The cells will be
highlighted green and calculations will be done for that wire under that weather case using
the deadend inputs from the Wire Data table. Entering tension in only Span 1 or Span 2 will
also cause the Wire Data for that wire to be highlighted green in the Wire Data table to
indicate that the deadend values are being used.
NOTE: Cases where no wire loads are present on the structure are currently not supported in
the AutoCalc program (i.e. wind on structure only). The software will still apply the intact
wind span, weight span, and intact hardware weight in a calculation of structure loading for
that case. The user can manually delete loads from the calculated load table to represent
attachments with no wires.
2.1.3.2. Entering Intact Wires

To enter intact wires, enter tensions in both Span 1 and Span 2. If tensions are exactly the
same, enter tensions in Span 1 and select the Click here to make Span 2 tensions equal Span
1 button:
2.1.4. WEIGHT SPANS

Weight span is used only in the calculation of Vertical Load at the attachment. Weight span is
multiplied by the effective weight of the wire (Unit weight of the wire plus additional weight due
to ice on the wires multiplied by the conductors per phase) and then increased by the “Vert.”
overload factor in the Load Case Selection table. Following the general color scheme of the
AutoCalc program, cells highlighted in purple represent intact wires and cells highlighted in
green represent deadend (or single span) wires. Therefore the value entered for purple
highlighted cells (intact) should reflect the weight span of both Span 1 AND Span 2, whereas
values entered for green highlighted cells (deadend) should only reflect the weight span of
either Span 1 OR Span 2.
The user of the AutoCalc 2.0 program is not limited to a single weight span per wire attachment.
The software supports the ability to enter a different weight span for each weather case of each
attachment. The following options are available:
• Method 1: The weight span for the weather case which produces the maximum vertical
load at the attachment (not maximum linear value of weight span) is used for vertical
load calculations on all weather cases. The governing weight span usually occurs under a
heavy ice or ice and wind weather case, and is typically not the weight span with the
longest absolute linear distance. Using this method, the load cases that have a longer
absolute linear distance than the governing weight span (such as extreme wind or cold
weather cases) may be under represented in terms of vertical load. The load cases that
may be under represented for vertical load can be shown to be non-critical for vertical
load. This is the traditional, historical, way that weight span is used for loading
calculations and is still perfectly acceptable today. If this method is used, one number is
listed for weight span (or vertical span) for each wire on the load tree drawing and there
is no need for a weight span table by load case. In the AutoCalc 2.0 Weight Span table,
the user simply copies the weight span number used across all of the applicable load
cases.
• Method 2: The weight span for the weather case which produces the maximum linear
value of weight span (not maximum vertical load at the attachment) is used for vertical
load calculations on all weather cases. The maximum linear value of weight span usually
occurs under an extreme wind or cold temperature condition (where the wire is not
loaded with ice), and therefore is typically not the weather case which produces the
maximum vertical load at the attachment. Load cases that have a shorter absolute linear
distance than the governing weight span, but still produce a higher vertical load at the
attachment (such as heavy ice or ice and wind), will be inflated in terms of vertical load.
Since the load cases that are inflated for vertical load are the load cases that are
governing the design for vertical load, the result can be quite conservative. Davit arms
can especially be subject to over-design under this method since they are subject to
bending under vertical load. Because of the unnecessarily conservative nature of this
method, it is not recommended. If this method is used, one number is listed for weight
span (or vertical span) for each wire on the load tree drawing and there is no need for a
weight span table by load case. In the AutoCalc 2.0 Weight Span table, the user simply
copies the weight span number used across all of the applicable load cases.
• Method 3: The user can fill in the weight span table to use the actual weight span under
each weather condition. By doing so, non-governing vertical loads will not be under-
represented (as they would be by using Method 1) and the governing vertical loads will
not be over-conservative (as they would be by using Method 2). This is a new approach
to load tree calculations that may not be familiar to a client or vendor. Instead of listing

a single design weight span, a weight span table must be included on the load tree
drawing. The AutoCalc 2.0 program takes care of the weight span table presentation for
the user and prepares it along with the loading table on the Load Table tab. If the user is
using Method 1 or Method 2 above, do not use the weight span table from below the
loading table created on the Load Table tab when copying it to the load tree drawing.
NOTE: Common Rounding Scheme: (Max Weight Span + 10’) rounded up to the nearest 25’.
2.1.5. CABLE VECTORS GRAPHIC

The cable vectors graphic is a visual aid that allows the user to see how the program is
interpreting the inputs in the Wire Data section. When a wire is added to the Wire Data section
and is given tensions in the Initial Wire Tensions section, the graphic automatically updates to
show the direction of the load vectors in relation to the coordinate system that is set up in the
AutoCalc program.
Each vector is labeled according to which wire and angle corresponds to it (i.e. “(W1, 2, 5, 6, 7
37.5°)” stands for wire 1, wire 2, wire 5, wire 6, & wire 7, at a 37.5° angle in relation to the
longitudinal axis). The wire numbers in the graphic correspond to the wire numbers that are
filled out in the Wire Data section. In addition to this, if a vector represents a deadend (DE)
span, the prefix DE shows up at the beginning of the label as shown next to the green vector in
the figure above.

2.1.5.1. Cable Vectors Display Options

Use the CABLE VECTORS DISPLAY dropdown menu to choose whether to display all load
cases at once or to select an individual load case. The blue box below with the heading
CABLE VECTORS DISPLAY shows the user what Load Case(s) are currently displayed.
2.1.6. PRINT OUTPUT

button.
2.2. INPUT – LOAD ADJUSTMENTS

This tab is used to add adjustments to the loads generated in the Load Table tab. Load adjustments
are generally necessary to account for special loading cases specified by a client. The net adjustment
that is made to the load can be seen in the Net Adjustment Added to the Load Table section
provided below the Load Adjustment section.
2.2.1. LOADING ADJUSTMENT

The 5 available methods for adjusting the loads are:
• Adding vertical load

based on % of the max wire tension for that load case
based on a user specified weight in lbs
based on wire snub angle from horizontal during stringing
• Adding longitudinal load
based on % of the max wire tension for that load case
based on a user specified weight in lbs
2.2.1.1. Help Menu

An extensive help menu is provided in the AutoCalc program by clicking Help on the right
side of the Loading Adjustment section heading. This help feature presents an illustrated
and detailed tab of information for each of the five methods of load adjustments that the
software can perform. Screen shots of this menu are provided in Appendix 5.1 of this
document.

2.2.1.2. Person and Equipment Load

Person and Equipment Loads are required by some clients and should be added to the
vertical loads. After selecting the Load adjustment type and Overload Factor Applied as
shown below, select “OK”. Then in the Loading Adjustment section select “One” in the
“Apply Load Adjustment to One or All Subconductors?” entry. Enter the Person Equip load in
pounds under the appropriate section of the table.
Select Load Adjustment for Adding Person/Equipment Load:

2.2.1.3. Wire Stringing Load

Wire Stringing Load cases often require the user to add a vertical load equal to a fraction or
percentage of the stringing tension (i.e. the tension entered in Initial Wire Tensions table) to
the shieldwire attachments or conductor attachments. After selecting the Load adjustment
type and Overload Factor Applied as shown below, select “OK”. Then in the Loading
Adjustment section select “All” in order to apply the percentage of the tension in each
subconductor if bundled wire is involved. Enter the percentage as a decimal (“.33” for 33%
of wire tension under that load case) under the appropriate section of the table for each
wire involved in the stringing operation.
Select Load Adjustment for Wire Stringing:

2.2.1.4. Longitudinal Restraint Load

Longitudinal Restraint Load cases are required by some clients for tangent and angle
structures. To account for longitudinal restraint, add a longitudinal load equal to a
percentage of the wire tension. After selecting the load adjustment type as shown below,
select “OK”. Then in the Loading Adjustment section select “All” in order to apply the
percentage of the tension in each subconductor if bundled wire is involved and you want to
add the adjustment to all subconductors in the bundle. Enter percentage as a decimal (“.76”
for 76% of wire tension under that load case).
This load case is often split into at least 2 sub load cases, 1 for the shieldwire and 1 for the
conductor. If the longitudinal restraint or broken wire case is meant to be applied to one
attachment at a time, then it is important that the longitudinal adjustment be applied to
each arm individually using multiple load cases that each apply the load adjustment to only
one attachment point. If this method is not used and, for example, load adjustments that
are supposed to be applied individually are applied concurrently in a single load case, then
the estimated base diameter and estimated reactions (for foundation estimating) can be
invalid, as well as any steel weight estimating.
Select Load Adjustment for Longitudinal Restraint:

2.2.2. NET ADJUSTMENT ADDED TO LOAD TABLE

For full transparency and user feedback, the absolute value of load adjustment in lbs is
calculated and displayed below the load adjustment settings. The separate table is for user
confirmation that load adjustment selections are having the intended effect. Users are given the
convenience of this information separate from the final combined load table, however all of the
load adjustments are already automatically combined into the final load table. No action is
needed other than observing that the values are as the user intends them to be.
2.2.3. PRINT OUTPUT

button.

2.3. LOAD TABLE

This is the primary output used to create the final load table which will be placed on the loading
drawing (see the example drawing at the end of this guide for formatting).
2.3.1. STRUCTURE LOAD TABLE

This section tabulates the unmodified transverse, vertical, and longitudinal loads that are
calculated based on the data entered in the Input tab and adjusted according to the Input –
Load Adjustments tab values. This raw data is further refined before it is used as the structure
load table on the loading drawing.
2.3.2. REFINE STRUCTURE LOAD TABLE

This section was added in order to assist in creating refined load tables without using
uncontrolled spreadsheets external to the AutoCalc program. The three main functions of this
section are applying a rounding scheme, combining longitudinal loads into a single resultant
longitudinal load, and creating a refined load table.
2.3.2.1. Applying a Rounding Scheme

Example Rounding Scheme: (Load + 50 lbs) rounded up to the nearest 100 lbs
This can be accomplished under the Refine Structure Load Table section using the following
settings:
NOTE: When both L1 and L2 are present for intact load cases, the two values are first added
together and then rounded according to the rounding scheme. If any of the resulting loads
(T, V, or L) are negative, the value is rounded down to provide the load with the greatest
absolute magnitude without consideration of direction (ex. -1430lbs will be rounded to -
1500lbs).

2.3.2.2. Combining L1 and L2 into a resultant

For most tangent and angle structures, the resulting L value will be 0. However, if there are
any cases with differential tension these L values will be non-zero and will be positive (+) if
Span 1 tensions are greater and negative (-) if Span 2 tensions are greater.
NOTE: It is important to pay attention to the sign (i.e. positive or negative) of the loading and
orientation of the structure to make sure the direction of the load is correctly represented by
the load vector arrows on the loading drawing. It is necessary to use engineering judgment
to ensure that the loads in different directions are combined for maximum effect and per the
intentions of the client criteria. Specifically, the combination of opposing loads could have a
cancelling effect in design if engineering judgement is not applied. Similarly, rounding
schemes of opposing loads could have a minimizing effect rather than a rounding up effect if
engineering judgement is not applied.
2.3.2.3. Refined Load Table Creation Method
The Creation Method selected by the user tells the program which of the rows in the
structure loads table need to be hidden in order to create the table that will go onto a
loading drawing. Smart-Table Creation Method is especially helpful in circumstances where
duplicate load cases with different load adjustments are entered to take advantage of this
automation. The refinement can also be optimized if load case naming is setup for refined
load table creation (see Help menu in this section for details). Manual Table Creation is also
available as an option.
Selecting “Manual Creation”: To the left of the Refine Structure Loads Table, the user
selects from the drop down “Hide” on the rows they wish to hide (i.e. blank rows or rows
that are duplicates of previous rows in the table). If user wishes to not hide any rows when
creating the refined load table, simply set all cells in the Manual Table Creation column to
be blank. Select the Update Table button any time that changes are made to the Manual
Table Creation column.
Selecting “Smart-Table Creation”: This option is the quickest option and uses a series of
pre-determined rules to hide rows in the table (see Help menu in this section for details).
Caution must be taken when using this option as the complexity of each and every unique
Load Table is not possible to capture in the pre-determined rules. If this method is used, the
rows that the smart automation selects for hiding are highlighted blue for transparency. If
the automation does not produce the desired results, it is recommended that the user
switch over to Manual Table Creation. If the automation is close to desired but the user

wants to make an adjustment, first set all of the blue highlighted cells to “Hide” to mimic the
automation using the manual method and then make desired adjustments.
2.3.3. REFINED LOAD TABLE

This table is the final product that the AutoCalc program creates to aid in the production of Load
Tables. After applying the settings described in the previous section to simplify the table, the
user can copy this table to another spreadsheet and finalize it for drafting.
2.3.4. PRINT OUTPUT

button.
2.4. REACTIONS
This tab provides the user the opportunity to estimate steel pole properties and reactions with a few
more inputs. These estimates can then be used for estimating steel weights or estimating
foundation sizes using other software. Note that these estimated groundline reactions are accurate
for a self-supporting steel monopole structure type, and shall not be used for other structure
configurations.
2.4.1. POLE PROPERTIES

The pole properties in this section can be input if they are known. Properties in gray shaded cells
are calculated properties that do not require inputs.

Once the wire attachment locations (section 2.4.3) are inputted, then properties with a “*” in
the description (Weight, Tip Dia, GL Dia, GL Steel Thickness) can be estimated using the Estimate
Steel Pole Properties button.
2.4.2. POLE ESTIMATION

2.4.2.1. Estimate Steel Pole Properties
Clicking this Estimate Steel Pole Properties button displays the following menu and users can
determine which settings they would like to use in the estimation process.

2.4.2.1.1. Property Estimation Settings

The first input is Steel Fy (yield stress). In most cases the default of 65 ksi is good for
estimating, but if another Fy is known, it can be used. The second input asks the user
whether a base plate weight will be estimated for the structure. After the user selects OK, a
series of iterative calculations are run using empirical formulas to estimate Weight, Ground
line Diameter, and Tip Diameter. If the user selects “No”, no additional weight is added to
the Weight column in the Pole Properties section. If the user selects “Yes”, a base plate
weight will be estimated using the equations in the list below. Eqn. 1 and 2 are from section
11.4.5 of the Energy College Transmission Line Design (September 2007 edition). Eqn. 3 and
4 are based on empirical data from a study group of approximately 500 structures. This
study group looked at the designs of approximately 250 single circuit 138kV structures and
250 345kV single circuit structures. An empirical formula was created from this analysis in
order to estimate the ratio of base diameter to tip diameter based on the moment capacity
of the structure.
2.4.2.1.2. Moment Amplification Factor and Estimation

The moment calculated in the Ground Line Reactions section at the bottom of the tab
includes a factor called the Moment Amplification Factor (input in the last column of the
Pole Properties section) that is used to account for P-Delta forces and moments due to the
arm weights that are not included anywhere in this program. Based on a study group which
compared the vendor calculated reactions (including P-Delta forces due to deflection and
base rotation) to the AutoCalc program predicted reactions, a Moment Amplification Factor
of 1.07 is recommended.
2.4.2.1.3. Estimating Process Details

The estimating process starts by calculating weight of the Baseplate (lbs), weight of the pole
shaft (lbs), ground line diameter (in), tip diameter (in) and taper (in/ft) utilizing the max
moment (ft-K) and height (ft):
.
1. = 3.33 ∗
.#$%&# .$'( )(
2. = .704744 ∗ !ℎ ∗
3. *+, = 1.09 ∗ !ℎ .&/ ∗ 1.64 ∗ .1#
***Round to nearest .25”. Minimum 10”.
7.(/
4. *23 = *+, ∗ 3.2585 ∗ ***Round to nearest .25”. Minimum 6”.
5. 8 9 : = (*+, − *+,23 )/ !ℎ
6. Recalculate max moment based on new pole dimensions and return to Eqn. 1 for 4
iterations
Next, calculate the steel thickness at the base of the pole based on estimated ground line
diameter and max moment per ASCE 48-11 Chapter 5:

7. ? @ 8ℎ AB CC DE ( ) = + 1/16” ***Steel thickness at ground line iterations start

with t = 1/16” (Iteration 2: t = 1/8” etc.)
K K K
8. G/ = (2 ∗ tan ( ( ) ∗ (*+, /2) − 2 ∗ 4 ∗ tan ( ( ) ∗ − 2 ∗ ∗ tan ( ( ))/
OPQ & OPQ &
9. LM = .823085 ∗ N R −N − R
( (
U
10. Sℎ AB: ≤ 240/√XY ***Equation 5.2-8 ASCE 48-11. If True, then Fa = Fy and skip to
14. If false, go to 11.
U
11. Sℎ AB: ≤ 374/√XY ***Equation 5.2-9 ASCE 48-11 If True, then go to 12. If false, 13.
U
12. X = 1.45 ∗ XY ∗ (1 − .00129 ∗ ZXY ∗ ) ***Equation 5.2-9 ASCE 48-11
13. X = 999
\ M \ ] ^ ∗_`
14. [C ! = aPQ *** Loop through Eqns 7-14 until Usage < 1 and Fa <> 999
∗%(
b
Lastly, if properties are being estimated for an embedded pole, calculate the actual weight
based on the steel thickness at ground line and the other embedded section properties
previously calculated:
15. *c = *+, + 8 9 : ∗ d e f
16. gh : ! * ]c i = (*+, + *c )/2
17. gh : ! j ? A @ g: = 3 ∗ tan(15°) ∗ (* (]c i_ mn − (* ]c i_ mn − (2 ∗ ))(
om p n q r 3 ^ op stuv
18. 2 = + ∗E ]c i ∗ 490@eC/w ^3
%&&
NOTE: No steel arm weights, anchor bolt weights, or baseplate weights are estimated in this
software.
NOTE: The weight of steel structures is estimated for the primary purpose of increasing the
accuracy of the estimated base diameter and groundline reaction. Using these weights for
cost estimating without vendor design should be done with extreme caution.

2.4.2.2. Generate Reactions by Height Tab

It is often necessary to estimate steel weights and ground line reactions for a variety of
lengths of poles within a design group. The Generate Reactions by Height Tab button runs
an estimating process that allows the user to specify a range of pole lengths to consider and
incorporates all of the estimating capabilities described in the previous section.
After selecting the Generate Reactions by Height Tab button, the following dialog box
appears:
2.4.2.2.1. Reactions by Height Settings

This allows the user to specify what range of pole heights to estimate weights and ground
line reactions for. If dealing with direct embedded pole estimation, the user can override the
embedment using a common rounding scheme framework (i.e. 10% +2’). Once the user
presses OK in this dialog box, they are given the choice to estimate steel pole properties for
each of the pole height increments. If yes (recommended), then the steel pole estimation
process that was discussed in a previous section is applied. If no, then the properties that

are currently in the Pole Properties section are used and are not modified. The information
from this report can be very helpful for use in foundation estimating.
NOTE: Every time this report is run, the previous report is deleted. This report does not
automatically update if any inputs are updated in the spreadsheet
Here is an example of a portion of a Reactions by Height report:
A. General settings selected for the run.

B. Detailed pole properties and reactions tables for each height
C. Summary of pole properties and maximum reactions for each height. Note that in this
summary, the maximum moment, shear, and axial reactions are not required to come
from the same load case.

2.4.3. WIRE ATTACHMENT LOCATIONS

Before properties and reactions can be estimated, the user must define where the attachment
points are located and what wires attach to those points. Wires that are set up in the Input tab
are automatically added to the dropdown menus. The x-axis in the graphic corresponds to the
transverse axis in the Cable Vectors Graphic on the Input tab with –x = (-) transverse direction
and +x = (+) transverse direction. Further, under the Side column, when the user selects “Right”,
a wire is placed on the (+) transverse side of the structure and when the user selects “Left”, a
wire is placed on the (-) transverse side of the structure.
NOTE: The user should understand which way the structure is oriented so that the side of the
structure with the most vertical load causing a moment on the structure is acting in a way that
produces the greatest moment in conjunction with the wind. The images below show the same
structure geometry mirrored on the transverse axis (simply switching Left’s and Right’s in the
Side column). Notice how in the left image there are 2 wires whose weights are counteracting
the moment produced by the wind and tension (assuming positive line angles). In the right image
there are 3 wires whose weights are counteracting the moment produced by the wind and
tension. Given that the wind direction blows from left to right, the user should orient the
structure so that the most attachment points are on the “Right” side in order to produce the
highest ground line moment for estimation and design purposes.

2.4.3.1. Offset Setting

This check box allows the user to specify whether the distance is input is from the pole
surface or the centerline of the pole.
2.4.4. GROUND LINE REACTIONS

This reactions table is generated from loads placed on the structure at the locations specified in
the Wire Attachment Locations section. Note that the loads come from the refined structure
load table (rounded loads). The user can apply the results from this table in foundation
estimating.
The equivalent pole tip load is a point load applied 2 feet below the top of the pole which
produces a calculated groundline reaction equal to the estimated moment. Wood pole
equivalent steel structures are sometimes classified using this equivalent point load.
2.4.5. PRINT OUTPUT

A Print Output button is present on this tab, see section 1.5 for a guide to printing using this
button.

3. UTILITIES
The UTILITIES section covers the two orange tabs in the AutoCalc 2.0 program. These tabs are of interest
to users wanting to take advantage of advanced functionality.
3.1. LCA WRITER

The LCA writer generates an .LCA file for use with PLS structures using the Refined Load Table from
the Load Table tab and the Wire Attachment Locations from the Reactions tab. The wind pressure
entered in the LCA file has the Trans. Wind overload factor applied. For additional information see
the notes below the LCA file writer table. Add in the Conductor Attachment Label exactly as it is in
the PLS-Pole Model and click the Generate .LCA File button:
NOTE: Strength Factors, Pole Deflection Check, Pole Deflection Limit, and Joint Displacement are not
entered into the LCA File. These values can be edited after loading the LCA file into a PLS-POLE Model
if desired. Wind/Ice Model is set to "Wind on All". Wind pressures are entered as transverse. Also,
LCA Writer creates an LCA file in LCA Version 12.2 (Different than PLS-POLE version). Compatibility
with future versions is likely stable, but unknown. Save an LCA file from PLS-POLE and open the file in
NotePad or similar program to determine the LCA Version number currently being used.
3.2. TABLE INPUT

This tab can be used to store and create multiple AutoCalc program files with a unique loading table
for each structure type on a project from a single master file. From the table, the user can also batch
run various processes to create .LCA files as well as estimate pole properties and ground line
reactions. In this table each row has a place for all of the inputs of a single structure type.

3.2.1. GENERATE AUTOCALC FILES

The Generate AutoCalc Files button creates individual AutoCalc files for each structure type
populated as a row in the Table Input.
3.2.1.1. AutoCalc Creation Settings
In addition to creating the individual AutoCalc files for each structure type, it also gives the
user the option to:
• Estimate steel pole properties for all structure types (See Section 2.4.2)
• Generate reactions by height for all structure types (See Section 2.4.2)
• Create LCA files for all structure types (See Section 3.1)
• Print a pdf copy of all structure types (See Section 1.5)

3.2.1.2. Reactions by Height Summary Report
When the “Generate reactions by Height” option is selected within the AutoCalc program
generating process, a Reactions by Height Summary tab will be created in the original
AutoCalc master file that summarizes all of the estimated properties for all of the files.
3.2.2. SAVE TO TABLE

The Save To Table button takes all of the inputs in the current AutoCalc file tabs and adds them
to the Table Input tab as a new structure type. Select the row to store the current structure type
inputs to and press OK.
NOTE: This will overwrite any inputs currently in the row that is specified.
3.2.3. LOAD FROM TABLE

The Load From Table button allows the user to select a structure type from a row of the Table
Input tab and load it into the AutoCalc file tabs for viewing or editing. A structure type may be
edited by loading its row from the table, editing it in the INPUTS AND TABLES tabs, and then re-
saving it back to the same row of the table.

NOTE: This will override all of the current inputs in the Inputs and Tables and Utilities tabs.
3.2.4. DELETE TABLE INPUTS

The Delete Table Inputs button clears all data in the Table Input tab
3.2.5. TABLE NAVIGATION

The navigation buttons allow the user to jump to the desired section of the Table Input tab. In
lieu of making edits by loading from the table, editing in the INPUTS AND TABLES tabs, and then
re-saving it back to the same row of the table, the user can use the navigation buttons to jump
directly to the entries for editing. In this way, batch editing of all structure types at once is
possible.

4. TROUBLESHOOTING
4.1. MICROSOFT VISUAL BASIC WARNINGS
The AutoCalc 2.0 program works extensively with macros embedded in the spreadsheet. These
macros perform many functions and add functionality to the program. Like excel formulas, macros
limit inputs to only valid data types and ranges that can be used in certain equations (i.e. 5+four =
#VALUE in excel formulas because “four” is not a valid data type to be used with the addition
function). There are already built in checks for many of these types of errors, but they may not be all
encompassing.
Pressing escape while running most macros will exit the process and give a warning. If the warning
below is ever encountered, press Continue and the process will resume. If End is selected, the
process is ended wherever it was when the escape key was pressed. This can cause formatting
issues and should be avoided.

4.2. CHECKING THE LOADING TABLE

The following chart can be used for a convenient reference of which inputs have an effect on the
vertical, longitudinal, and transverse reactions. This reference may be useful when checking the final
Loading Table against PLS-CADD Loads Reports. If the AutoCalc program generated load table differs
from the PLS-CADD Loads Reports, the user can use the chart to deduce which inputs may be
adjusted for the most effective means of achieving the desired result.

5. APPENDIX
5.1. LOAD ADJUSTMENT HELP MENUS
For ease of reference, the following are screen shots of the Help Menu for the load adjustments.
5.1.1. VERTICAL LOAD % MAX TENSION (%)

5.1.2. VERTICAL LOAD (LBS)

5.1.3. SNUB LOAD (°)

5.1.4. LONGITUDINAL LOAD % MAX TENSION (%)

5.1.5. LONGITUDINAL LOAD (LBS)

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AUTOCALC 2.

By Jake Hexum and Eric Brezinka

2.4.4. GROUND LINE REACTIONS .................................................................................................. 32

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 3

Transmission Line Structure Loading using AutoCalc 2.0

Function New Improved

Function New Improved

1. RECORDS AND REFERENCES

1.2. PROJECT INFO

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 5

1.3. CALCULATION RECORD

1.3.1. PRINT OUTPUT

• National Electric Safety Code C2-2012

1.4.1. PRINT OUTPUT

1.5. PRINT OUTPUT BUTTON

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 6

2. INPUTS AND TABLES

2.1.1. LOAD CASE SELECTION

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 7

2.1.1.1. Load Case Definition

2.1.1.2. Overload Factors

2.1.1.3. Pole Criteria

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 8

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 9

2.1.2. WIRE DATA

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 10

2.1.2.3. Cond. Per Phase

2.1.2.4. Shape Factor

2.1.2.5. Intact Line Angle (Ø)

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 11

The example below shows an example of Ø=60°:

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 12

2.1.2.6. Intact Hardware Wt.

2.1.2.7. Intact Wind Span

2.1.2.8. Deadend Line Angle (δ)

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 13

2.1.2.9. Deadend Hardware Wt.

2.1.2.10. Deadend Wind Span

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 14

2.1.3. INITIAL WIRE TENSION

2.1.3.1. Entering DE Wires

2.1.3.2. Entering Intact Wires

2.1.4. WEIGHT SPANS

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 16

2.1.5. CABLE VECTORS GRAPHIC

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 17

2.1.5.1. Cable Vectors Display Options

2.1.6. PRINT OUTPUT

2.2. INPUT – LOAD ADJUSTMENTS

2.2.1. LOADING ADJUSTMENT

• Adding vertical load

2.2.1.1. Help Menu

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 18

2.2.1.2. Person and Equipment Load

Select Load Adjustment for Adding Person/Equipment Load:

BLACK & VEATCH - REVISION 0 19

2.2.1.3. Wire Stringing Load