PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS

INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

LEARNING Module
9: Distributed
Loads and
Hydrostatic Forces;
Cables

STATICS OF RIGID BODIES

Prepared by:
ENGR. AUGUSTINE E. BUENAVENTURA

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Time
Title Page
Allotment
DISTRIBUTED LOADS ON BEAMS 5 30 mins
LEARNING ACTIVITY #1 9 50 mins
FORCES ON SUBMERGED SURFACES 10 40 mins
LEARNING ACTIVITY #2 14 50 mins
CABLES WITH CONCENTRATED LOADS 15 34 mins
LEARNING ACTIVITY #3 19 50 mins
TECHNICAL REPORT 9 20 60 mins

Video Links
Title Video Link
Distributed Loads on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-SFb0ZuJhE
Beams https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juDqsc4_bvA

Distributed Loads https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L2HosZG-Ko

example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UT67bAYfwvs

Forces on submerged https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoDsM4AYf4s&list=PLX2

surfaces gX-ftPVXUZuXBXdScArLwJ0CMROTnZ&index=1

Example forces on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zV-JO-

submerged surfaces l7Mx4&list=PLZOZfX_TaWAH0baRhA8OosWVbEsJK5sPe&i
ndex=18
Cable with concentrated https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WK85uR5I3q8&list=PLX2
loads gX-ftPVXUTqjtXGBhoF8vvdlkc-CnO&index=2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cc6RCUG7u34&list=PLX
2gX-ftPVXUTqjtXGBhoF8vvdlkc-CnO&index=3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF4xYxuTVPw&list=PLX
2gX-ftPVXUTqjtXGBhoF8vvdlkc-CnO&index=4
Example of Cable https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Kr0_p9bOg0&list=PLX2
gX-ftPVXUTqjtXGBhoF8vvdlkc-CnO&index=8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlnJsaUxclI&list=PLX2gX-
ftPVXUTqjtXGBhoF8vvdlkc-CnO&index=9

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

TABLE OF REFERENCES
References No.
Hibbler. (2016). Engineering Mechanics, Statics. New Jersey: Pearson
1
Prentice Hall
Beer, Johnson, Maruzel, & Cornwell. (2010). Vector Mechanics for
2
Engineers: Statics. New York: McGraw-Hill.

List of Figures
Figures Reference
7,8,11 Hibbler. (2016). Engineering Mechanics, Statics. New Jersey:
Pearson Prentice Hall
1 – 6,9,10 Beer, Johnson, Maruzel, & Cornwell. (2010). Vector Mechanics for
Engineers: Statics. New York: McGraw-Hill.

List of Examples
Example Reference
4–6 Hibbler. (2016). Engineering Mechanics, Statics. New Jersey:
Pearson Prentice Hall
1-3 Beer, Johnson, Maruzel, & Cornwell. (2010). Vector Mechanics for
Engineers: Statics. New York: McGraw-Hill.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
This module explores the distributed loading on beams, calculating the total force and
moment of distributed load, analyzing the forces on submerged surfaces and flexible
cables.
LEARNING OUTCOMES

Course Learning Outcomes [CLO]

CLO 7. Perform analysis related to Module Learning Outcomes [MLO]

distributed forces.
CLO 12. Produce a systematic and Topic Learning Outcomes [TLO]
accurate solution for every problem so MLO 1. Simplify distributed loading into
that it can be solve in a limited amount one resultant force
of time. MLO 2. Solve problems concerning TLO 4. Analyze the effects of distributed
CLO 13. Demonstrate critical analysis in bodies submerged in fluids and cables loads on beams and forces on
the solution of a problem and submerged surfaces (hydrostatic forces)
application to engineering. using solving practical problems
TLO 5. Analyze the forces and the
shapes of cables supporting
concentrated loading using solving
problems.

HONESTY CLAUSE

As individuals of the academic community, students are expected to understand and

uphold requirements of intellectual and educational integrity. The college assumes as
a simple and minimal standard of conduct in academic matters, that students be
truthful and that they submit credit of their personal efforts.

̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅
𝑆𝑖𝑔𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑁𝑎𝑚𝑒

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

DISTRIBUTED LOADS ON BEAMS

In addition to those dealing with flat plate weights, the definition of the centroid of an
area can be used to solve other problems. Consider a beam supporting a distributed
load, for example; this load may consist of the weight of material supported directly or
indirectly by the beam, or it may be caused by wind or hydrostatic pressure.
The distributed load can be defined by plotting the supported load 𝒘 for each unit
length, Fig. 1; this load is expressed in N/m or in lb/ft.

Figure 1

The magnitude of the force exerted on an element of beam of length 𝑑𝑥 is 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑤 𝑑𝑥,

and total load supported by the beam is
𝐿
𝑊 = ∫ 𝑤 𝑑𝑥
0

We observe the product 𝑤 𝑑𝑥 being equal to the area 𝑑𝐴 element shown in the above
figure. Therefore, the load W is equal in magnitude to the total area A below the load
curve:

𝑊 = ∫ 𝑑𝐴 = 𝐴

We are now determining where a single focused load W of the same magnitude W as
the total distributed load should be added to the beam if the same reactions are to be
generated at the supports, Fig.2.

Figure 2: Distributed Loading represented as Concentrated Load

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
However, this concentrated load W, which represents the result of the given distributed
load, is only equal to the loading when considering the entire beam's free-body
diagram.
The point of application P of the concentrated load equivalent W is obtained by
specifying that the moment of W about point O is equal to the sum of the moments of
the elemental loads dW about O:
(𝑂𝑃)𝑊 = ∫ 𝑥 𝑑𝑊
Or, since 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑤 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑑𝐴 and 𝑊 = 𝐴
𝐿
(𝑂𝑃)𝐴 = ∫ 𝑥 𝑑𝐴
𝑂
Since the integral represents the first moment in the area under the load curve with
respect to the w axis, it can be replaced by the product 𝑥̅ 𝐴. We therefore have 𝑂𝑃 =
𝑥, where 𝑥̅ is the distance from the 𝑤 axis to the centroid C of the area A (this is not
the centroid of the beam)

Therefore, a distributed load on a beam may be replaced by a focused load; the

magnitude of this single load is proportional to the area under the load curve and its
action line passes through the centroid of the area..

Analyzing beams subjected to distributed loads.

We have shown that the distributed load on a beam can be replaced by a single force
equivalent. The magnitude of this force is proportional to the area under the distributed
load curve, and its line of action passes through that area's centroid. So you should
start your solution by replacing the different loads distributed on a given beam with
their respective single equivalent forces.

Complex distributed loads should be split into the typical shape areas, where
appropriate. Then each of these areas can be replaced with a single equivalent power.
The system of equivalent forces can be further reduced to one equivalent force if
necessary.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
EXAMPLE 3
A beam supports a distributed load as shown. (a)
Determine the equivalent concentrated load. (b)
Determine the reactions at the supports.

SOLUTION
Figure 3
Equivalent Concentrated Load.

The magnitude of the resultant of the load is

equal to the area under the load curve, and the
line of action of the resultant passes through the
centroid of the same area. We divide the area
under the load curve into two triangles and
construct the table below. To simplify the
computations and tabulation, the given loads
per unit length have been converted into 𝑘𝑁/𝑚.

The equivalent concentrated load is

𝛴𝐴 = 𝛴𝑊; 𝑊 = 18 𝑘𝑁
Thus, 𝑋̃𝛴𝐴 = 𝛴𝑥̅ 𝐴; 𝑋̃(18𝑘𝑁) = 63𝑘𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 → 𝑋̃ =
3.5𝑚
And its line of action is located at a distance 𝑋̃ = 3.5𝑚
to the right of A
Reactions. The reaction at A is vertical and is denoted by A; the reaction at B is
represented by its components Bx and By. The given distributed load can be replaced
by its resultant. The reactions can be determined by writing the equilibrium equations
𝛴𝑀𝐵 = 0 𝛴𝐹𝑥 = 0 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0

𝛴𝑀𝐵 = 0; −(18𝑘𝑁)(2.5𝑚) + 𝑅𝐴 (6𝑚) = 0

45𝑘𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝑹𝑨 = = 𝟕. 𝟓 𝒌𝑵
6𝑚

𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0 ; 𝑅𝐴 + 𝑅𝐵𝑦 − 18𝑘𝑁 = 0

𝑹𝑩𝒚 = 18𝑘𝑁 − 7.5𝑘𝑁 = 𝟏𝟎. 𝟓𝒌𝑵
𝛴𝐹𝑥 = 0; 𝑹𝑩𝒙 = 𝟎

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
EXAMPLE 3
Determine the reactions at the beam supports
for the given loading.

SOLUTION
Figure 4
First replace the given loading by the loadings
shown below. Both loadings are equivalent since they are both defined by a linear
relation between load and distance and have the same values at the end points.

1 𝑁
𝑹𝟏 = (900 ) (1.5 𝑚) = 𝟔𝟕𝟓 𝑵 𝑹𝟏 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝟏. 𝟒 𝒎 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑨
2 𝑚
1 𝑁
𝑹𝟐 = (400 ) (1.5𝑚) = 𝟑𝟎𝟎 𝑵 𝑹𝟐 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝟎. 𝟗 𝒎 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑨
2 𝑚
+↺ 𝛴𝑀𝐴 = 0; −(675𝑁)(1.4𝑚) + (300𝑁)(0.9𝑚) + 𝐵(2.5𝑚) = 0
𝑩 = 𝟐𝟕𝟎𝑵 ↑
+↑ 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0; 𝐴 − 675𝑁 + 300 𝑁 + 270 𝑁 = 0

𝑨 = 𝟏𝟎𝟓. 𝟎 𝑵 ↑

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
LEARNING ACTIVITY #1
Solve the following problem systematically and box the final answer with its
appropriate units. Write the question and the complete solution on the prescribed
format. Submit your scanned work on the provided link on Google Classroom.

1. For the beam and loading shown, determine (a) the magnitude and location of
the resultant of the distributed load, (b) the reactions at the beam supports.

2. Determine the reactions at the beam supports for the given loading.

3. Determine the reactions at the beam supports for the given loading.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
FORCES ON SUBMERGED SURFACES
According to Pascal 's law, at a point which is the same in all directions, a fluid at rest
creates pressure 𝑝. The magnitude of P, measured as a force per unit area, depends
on the fluid 's particular weight 𝛾 or mass density 𝜌 and the point ℎ depth from the fluid
surface

𝑝 = 𝛾ℎ = 𝜌𝑔ℎ
where 𝑔 is the acceleration due to gravity. This equation is only true for fluids which
are believed to be incompressible, as is the case for most liquids.
Flat Plate of Constant Width.
Consider the rectangular plate shown in fig 5, length
𝐿 and width 𝑏, where 𝑏 is measured perpendicular to
the figure plane.
The load exerted on an element of the plate of length
𝑑𝑥 is 𝑤 𝑑𝑥, where 𝑤 is the load per unit length.
However, this load can also be expressed as 𝑝 𝑑𝐴 =
𝑝𝑏 𝑑𝑥, where 𝑝 is the gage pressure in the liquid and
𝑏 is the width of the plate;

Since the gage pressure in a liquid is 𝑃 = 𝛾ℎ,

Figure 5
where 𝛾 is the specific weight of the liquid and ℎ is
the vertical distance from the free surface, it follows that

𝒘 = 𝜸𝒑 = 𝒃𝜸𝒉
We note that the resulting R of the hydrostatic forces exerted on one side of the plate
is equal in magnitude to the trapezoidal area under the load curve, and that its action
line runs through the centroid C of that area. The point P of the plate where R is
applied is known as the center of pressure.

Curved Plate of Constant Width.

We consider the forces which the liquid exerts on a curved surface of constant
width, Fig. 6a .

Figure 6a

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
We consider the free body obtained by separating the volume of ABD liquid bounded
by the curved AB surface and the two plane AD and DB surfaces shown in Fig. 6b.
The forces acting on the free body ABD are
• the weight W of the separate volume of liquid,
• the resultant 𝑹1 of the forces applied on AD,
• the resultant 𝑹2 of the forces applied on BD, and the
o The load curve would be triangular (rather than trapezoidal) when the
top edge of a rectangular plane surface coincides with the liquid's free
surface, since the liquid's free surface pressure is zero. The R action
line is simple to evaluate since it passes through the middle of the
triangular load distributed.

Figure 6b

• resultant −𝑹 of the forces applied by the curved surface on the fluid.

o The resultant −𝑹 is equal and opposite to, and has the same line of
action as, the resultant 𝑹 of the forces applied by the fluid on the
curved surface.

The forces W, R1, and R2 can be calculated by standard methods; force -R is

obtained by solving the equations of equilibrium after their values have been found.

EXAMPLE 4:
Determine the magnitude and location of the
resultant hydrostatic force acting on the
submerged rectangular plate AB. The plate
has a width of 1.5 m; 𝜌𝑤 = 1000 kg/m3.

Solution I

The water pressures at depths A and B are Figure 7

1000𝑘𝑔 𝑚
𝑝𝐴 = 𝜌𝑤 𝑔ℎ𝑎 = ( ) (9.81 ) (2𝑚)
𝑚3 𝑠2
𝑝𝐴 = 19.62 𝑘𝑃𝑎

1000𝑘𝑔 𝑚
𝑝𝐵 = 𝜌𝑤 𝑔ℎ𝐵 = ( 3
) (9.81 2 ) (5𝑚)
𝑚 𝑠
𝑝𝐵 = 49.05 𝑘𝑃𝑎

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

Since the plate has a constant width, the

pressure loading can be viewed in two
dimensions, The intensities of the load at A and
B are

𝑤𝐴 = 𝑏𝑝𝐴 = (1.5𝑚)(19.62 𝑘𝑃𝑎)

𝑘𝑁
𝑤𝐴 = 29.43
𝑚

𝑤𝐵 = 𝑏𝑝𝐵 = (1.5𝑚)(49.05 𝑘𝑃𝑎)

𝑘𝑁
𝑤𝐵 = 73.58
𝑚
Each force acts through its associated centroid and has a magnitude of

𝑘𝑁
𝐹𝑟𝑒 = (29.43 ) (3𝑚) = 88.3 𝑘𝑁
𝑚
3𝑚
𝑥𝑟𝑒 = = 1.5𝑚 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝐵
2
1
𝐹𝑡 = (44.15 𝑘𝑁)(3 𝑚) = 66.2 𝑘𝑁
2
1
𝑥𝑡 = (3) = 1𝑚 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝐵
3
𝐹𝑅 = 𝐹𝑟𝑒 + 𝐹𝑡 = 88.3 + 66.2 = 154.5 𝑘𝑁
The location of FR is determined by summing moments about B,

↻ +(𝑀𝑅 )𝐵 = 𝛴𝑀𝐵 ; (154.5)ℎ = 88.3(1.5) + (66.2)(1)

ℎ = 1.29 𝑚

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
EXAMPLE 5:
Determine the magnitude of the
resultant hydrostatic force acting on the
surface of a seawall shaped in the form
of a parabola. The wall is 5 m
long; 𝜌𝑤 = 1020 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3 .

Solution
The horizontal and vertical
components of the resultant force will Figure 8
be calculated, Since.
𝑘𝑔 𝑚
𝑝𝐵 = 𝜌𝑤 𝑔ℎ𝑏 = (1020 ) (9.81 ) (3𝑚)
𝑚3 𝑠2
= 30.02 𝑘𝑃𝑎
Then
𝑘𝑁
𝑤𝐵 = 𝑏𝑝𝐵 = 5𝑚(30.02 𝑘𝑃𝑎) = 150.1
𝑚
The horizontal component 𝐹ℎ , has a distributed
loading of a triangle thus,
1 𝑘𝑁
𝐹ℎ = (3𝑚) (150.1 ) = 225.1 𝑘𝑁
2 𝑚

The area of the parabolic section ABC can be determined using the formula for a
1
parabolic spandrel area 𝐴 = 𝑎𝑏
3

Hence, the weight of water within this 5-m-long region is

𝐹𝑣 = (𝜌𝑤 𝑔𝑏)(𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎𝐴𝐵𝐶 )
𝑘𝑔 𝑚 1
= (1020 3 ) (9.81 2 ) (5𝑚) [ × 1𝑚 × 3𝑚] = 50.0 𝑘𝑁
𝑚 𝑠 3
The resultant force is therefore

𝐹𝑅 = √𝐹ℎ2 + 𝐹𝑉2 = √(225.1 𝑘𝑁)2 + (50.0 𝑘𝑁)2

𝐹𝑅 = 231 𝑘𝑁

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
LEARNING ACTIVITY #2
Solve the following problem systematically and box the final answer with its
appropriate units. Write the question and the complete solution on the prescribed
format. Submit your scanned work on the provided link on Google Classroom.
1. Determine the magnitude of the hydrostatic force acting on gate AB, which
has a width of 4 ft. The specific weight of water is 𝛾 = 62.4 𝑙𝑏/𝑓𝑡 3 .

2. Determine the magnitude of the hydrostatic force acting on gate AB, which
has a width of 1.5 m. Water has a density of 𝜌 = 1 𝑀𝑔/𝑚3.

3. Determine the magnitude of the hydrostatic force acting on gate AB, which
has a width of 2 m. Water has a density of 𝜌 = 1 𝑀𝑔/𝑚3

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

CABLES
Flexible cables and chains combine power with lightness, and are mostly used for
supporting structures and transferring loads from one member to another. When used
to support suspension bridges and trolley wheels, cables form the structure 's principal
load carrying feature. The weight of the cable itself can be ignored in the force analysis
of such systems, since it is often small relative to the load it carries. On the other hand,
as cables are used as transmission lines and guys for radio antennas and derricks the
cable weight may become significant and must be included in the structural analysis.
We assume the cable is flexible, i.e. its bending resistance is minimal, and can be
ignored. We further believe that cable weight is negligible relative to cable-supported
loads. Thus, any portion of the cable between successive loads can be called a two-
force member, and the internal forces at any point in the cable decrease to a tension
force along the cable.

CABLES WITH CONCENTRATED LOADS

Consider a cable connected to two fixed points A
and B and supporting 𝑛 vertical loads, Fig. 9.

We assume that each load lies in a given vertical

line, i.e., the horizontal distance from support A to
each load is known; we also assume that the
horizontal and vertical distances between the
supports are known. We offer to decide the cable
shape, i.e., the vertical distance from support A to
each of the points 𝐶1, 𝐶2, … , 𝐶𝑛, and also the
tension T in each portion of the cable.

Figure 9a
First we draw the complete cable free-body
diagram, Fig 9b. Since the slope of the cable portions
attached to A and B are not known, the reactions at A
and B have to be represented by two components
each.

Therefore, there are four unknowns involved, and the

three equilibrium equations are not adequate to
evaluate the reactions at A and B. Therefore, we need
to obtain an additional equation by considering a
portion of the cable 's equilibrium. This is possible
when we know the x and y coordinates of a cable 's
point D.

Figure 9b

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

Drawing the Cable AD section free-body diagram, Fig.10a

and writing 𝛴𝑀𝐷 = 0, We obtain an additional relationship
between the Ax and Ay scalar components, and can
evaluate the A and B reactions. However, the problem
would remain indeterminate unless we knew D's
coordinates, unless some other relationship was given
between Ax and Ay (or between Bx and By).

If Ax and Ay are calculated, the vertical distance from A

to either point of the cable is easily recognizable.

Since point C2, for example, we draw the free-body

diagram of the section of cable AC2, Fig.6b. Writing Figure 10a
𝛴𝑀𝐶2 = 0, we obtain an equation which can be solved for
𝑦2 . Writing 𝛴𝐹𝑋 = 0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0, we obtain the
components of 𝑇 representing the tension in the portion
of cable to the right of 𝐶2 .We observe the 𝑇 cos 𝜃 = −𝐴𝑥 ;
the horizontal component of the tension force is the same
at any point of the cable. Consequently, the tension T is
maximum when the minimum is cos 𝜃, i.e., in the section
of cable which has the largest angle of inclination 𝜃.

EXAMPLE 6
Determine the tension in each segment of the cable
shown Figure 10b

Figure 11

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
By inspection, there are four unknown external reactions (𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 𝐸𝑋 , 𝐸𝑦 ) and four cable
tensions, one in each segment. Consider the free-body diagram for the entire cable,
+
→ 𝛴𝐹𝑋 = 0; −𝐴𝑥 + 𝐸𝑥 = 0
↺ +𝛴𝑀𝐸 = 0
−𝐴𝑦 (18𝑚) + 4𝑘𝑁(15 𝑚) + 15 𝑘𝑁(10𝑚) + 3𝑘𝑁(2𝑚)
=0
𝐴𝑦 = 12𝑘𝑁
+↑ 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0; 12𝑘𝑁 − 4𝑘𝑁 − 15𝑘𝑁 − 3𝑘𝑁 + 𝐸𝑦 = 0
𝐸𝑦 = 10 𝑘𝑁
Since the sag 𝑦𝐶 = 12 𝑚 is known, we will now consider
the leftmost section, which cuts cable BC,

↺ +𝛴𝑀𝑐 = 0;
𝐴𝑥 (12𝑚) − 12𝑘𝑁(8𝑚) + 4𝑘𝑁(5𝑚) = 0
𝐴𝑥 = 𝐸𝑥 = 6.33 𝑘𝑁
+
→ 𝛴𝐹𝑋 = 0; 𝑇𝐵𝐶 cos 𝜃𝐵𝐶 − 6.33 𝑘𝑁 = 0
+↑ 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0; 12𝑘𝑁 − 4𝑘𝑁 − 𝑇𝐵𝐶 sin 𝜃𝐵𝐶 = 0
Thus,

𝜃𝐵𝐶 = 51.6°
𝑇𝐵𝐶 = 10.2 𝑘𝑁
Proceeding now to analyze the equilibrium of points A, C, and E in sequence,
Point A.
+
→ 𝛴𝐹𝑋 = 0; 𝑇𝐴𝐵 cos 𝜃𝐴𝐵 − 6.33 𝑘𝑁 = 0
+↑ 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0; 12𝑘𝑁 − 𝑇𝐴𝐵 sin 𝜃𝐵𝐶 = 0
𝜃𝐴𝐵 = 62.2 °
𝑇𝐴𝐵 = 13.6 𝑘𝑁

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
Point C.
+
→ 𝛴𝐹𝑋 = 0; 𝑇𝐶𝐷 cos 𝜃𝐶𝐷 − 10.2 cos 51.6° 𝑘𝑁 = 0
+↑ 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0;
𝑇𝐶𝐷 sin 𝜃𝐶𝐷 + 10.2 sin 51.6° 𝑘𝑁 − 15𝑘𝑁 = 0
𝜃𝐶𝐷 = 47.9°
𝑇𝐶𝐷 = 9.44 𝑘𝑁

Point E.
+
→ 𝛴𝐹𝑋 = 0; 6.33𝑘𝑁 − 𝑇𝐸𝐷 cos 𝜃𝐸𝐷 = 0
+↑ 𝛴𝐹𝑦 = 0; 10𝑘𝑁 − 𝑇𝐸𝐷 sin 𝜃𝐸𝐷 = 0
𝜃𝐸𝐷 = 57.7°
𝑇𝐸𝐷 = 11.8𝑘𝑁

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
LEARNING ACTIVITY #3
Solve the following problem systematically and box the final answer with its
appropriate units. Write the question and the complete solution on the prescribed
format. Submit your scanned work on the provided link on Google Classroom.
1. Three loads are suspended as shown from the cable ABCDE. Knowing that
𝑑𝐶 = 3 𝑚, determine (a) the components of the reaction at E, (b) the
maximum tension in the cable.

2. Knowing that the maximum tension in cable ABCDE is 13 kN, determine the
distance 𝑑𝐶 .

3. If 𝑑𝐶 = 8 𝑓𝑡 determine (a) the reaction at A, (b) the reaction at E.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
TECHNICAL REPORT 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables
Solve the following problem systematically and box the final answer with its
appropriate units. Write the question and the complete solution on the prescribed
format. Submit your scanned work on the provided link on Google Classroom.

1. For the beam and loading shown, determine (a) the magnitude and location of
the resultant of the distributed load, (b) the reactions at the beam supports.

2. For the beam and loading shown, determine (a) the magnitude and location of
the resultant of the distributed load, (b) the reactions at the beam supports.

3. An automatic valve consists of a 9 × 9 − 𝑖𝑛. square plate that is pivoted about

a horizontal axis through A. If the valve is to open when the depth of water is
𝑑 = 18 𝑖𝑛., determine the distance h from the bottom of the valve to the pivot
A.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 9: Distributed Loads and Hydrostatic Forces; Cables

4. If dC =8 ft, determine (a) the reaction at A, (b) the reaction at E.

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