AbstractA simple formula, equation (15), is derived for the peak additional cable tension that can be expected in a suspension bridge undergoing earthquake excitation. The method involves application of the response spectrum technique and rests on several plausible assumptions. The formula gives a reasonable upper bound, suitable for preliminary design estimates, irrespective of whether the ground motions at each end are in‐phase or, as is probable with a long span bridge, whether they are out‐of‐
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