Enter tension and angle for each guy line. See components, factors, and capacity margin instantly. Download clear summaries for design reviews and field crews.
Sample scenarios to illustrate typical outputs.
| Per-line tension | Angle | Lines | Dynamic | Safety | Factored H | Factored V | Factored R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.0 kN | 30° | 1 | 1.10 | 1.50 | 17.145 kN | 9.900 kN | 19.800 kN |
| 8.0 kN | 45° | 2 | 1.20 | 1.50 | 20.364 kN | 20.364 kN | 28.800 kN |
| 25.0 kN | 20° | 1 | 1.30 | 2.00 | 61.058 kN | 22.229 kN | 65.000 kN |
Angle definition: θ is measured above horizontal ground.
Per-line components (unfactored):
Combined factored loads (conservative):
Capacity check (optional): Utilization = R_f / Capacity, Margin = Capacity − R_f.
Guy systems transfer tension to the ground through an anchor, rod, and connection hardware. The calculator splits the line tension into horizontal and vertical components using the entered angle above ground. Horizontal load often governs sliding and soil bearing behavior, while vertical load influences uplift resistance, embedment depth, and connection detailing. Viewing both components helps engineers understand how geometry changes demand, even when line tension stays constant.
Field loading can fluctuate from wind gusts, cable vibration, and installation variability. The dynamic factor increases the nominal load to reflect those short-term effects. The safety factor adds an additional margin to align with design practice and reduce uncertainty. For multiple guys sharing one anchor, the calculator conservatively multiplies per-line components by the number of lines and applied factors, producing a factored resultant suitable for quick screening.
When allowable capacity is provided, the factored resultant is compared directly to that capacity. The utilization percentage highlights how close the anchor is to its limit, while the margin reports remaining capacity. If the result exceeds the allowable value, treat it as a flag for redesign, improved soil data, reduced line tension, different geometry, or a different anchor type. Always verify governing code requirements separately.
Better inputs produce better decisions. Tension may come from a calibrated dynamometer, turnbuckle settings with verified correlation, or manufacturer guidance for installed pretension. Angle should reflect the line at the anchor, not the structure top. If terrain slopes, measure angle relative to local ground at the anchor. Use consistent units and keep a record of assumptions for reviewers and inspectors.
Exporting CSV supports design logs, calculation packages, and traceable spreadsheets. PDF export produces a shareable snapshot for site crews and peer review. For final design, pair these outputs with soil reports, anchor manufacturer data, and connection capacity checks. Use the calculator to iterate quickly during planning, then confirm the selected configuration with detailed analysis, testing requirements, and project-specific specifications.
Enter the guy line angle measured above horizontal ground at the anchor location. Use a clinometer or geometry from surveyed points. Avoid using the tower-top angle if the ground elevation changes.
As the angle decreases, cos(θ) increases, so more of the tension acts horizontally. That typically increases sliding or lateral demand on the anchor and surrounding soil.
It accounts for transient effects such as wind gusts, vibration, and minor shock loading. Choose values based on project criteria, exposure, and experience, or follow your organization’s design basis.
Apply it to reflect design conservatism beyond nominal loading. Use factors consistent with your standard, client requirements, and the chosen anchor system. Document the selected factor in the export.
No. The units selector is a label for reports. Convert inputs externally so all values are consistent before calculating, especially when mixing force units like kN and lbf.
It is a quick screen only. Final verification should consider soil parameters, installation method, anchor manufacturer ratings, connection hardware, corrosion allowances, and any governing code or specification requirements.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.