Trinity Highway CASS TL3 - Tensioning and Tension Meter

TrinityHighway.com 27 Revision A November 2021
It is recommended before tensioning, that for runs of cable greater than 5,000’ [1,525 m], to
pull the cable at intervals of 3,000’ [915 m] to remove excess slack. Ensure no turnbuckles or
torpedo splices will interfere with the posts during the tensioning. If there are any, remove
the post(s) or the cables from the post.
Important: For long runs of cable, check the turnbuckles at every location
to ensure the cable has not unthreaded during the laying out or slack pulling
process. Ensure the threaded rod can be seen through the holes on each
end of the turnbuckle and the 1-1/2” [38 mm] mark cannot be seen.
Tensioning and Tension Meter
After all of the cables have been placed in the posts, tensioning can take place. The tension
placed on the cables is to be determined by the cable temperature at the time of tensioning. The
tension meter shall be set for pre-stretched cable. An infrared thermometer is to be on-site at the
point of tensioning to obtain the correct cable temperature. If an infrared thermometer is not
available, obtain the air temperature from a reliable source in the immediate area and not
influenced by other factors. See the CASS
®
Temperature and Tension Chart for the tension
requirements at the back of the manual.
The means of placing tension on the cable will be determined by the contractor. Whatever
means is chosen, it must ensure that the tension from the tension chart can be obtained.
Important: Completely review the manufacturer’s manual included with the
tensioning meter prior to tensioning of the cable.
Important: Ensure that the tension meter is set for pre-stretched cable.
Important: Completely review the infrared thermometer manufacturer’s manual
prior to tensioning of the cable.
Warning: Infrared light is harmful if shined into the eyes.
Warning: Read and understand the directions provided for the CASS
®
cable
pulling tool.
Complete the following steps to tension the cables:
1. Check the cable run to see if any of the turnbuckles or torpedo cable splice will pass from
one side of the post to the other during the tensioning process. If they will, pull the post
for the tensioning process. Also check the fitting marks at each turnbuckle to make sure
no marks are showing.
2. The tensioning of the cable will be taken at a location no closer than 500’ [167 m] from the
end that has not been connected to the CCT or Anchor Cables.