Answer: Several key factors influence the tension required to pull a cable, and understanding them is crucial for accurate planning:

• Cable weight: The weight of the cable is a primary force to overcome, particularly in long, straight sections.

• Coefficient of friction: This is a dimensionless number that describes the friction between the cable's jacket and the inner surface of the conduit. Using the right cable pulling lubricant can significantly reduce this coefficient.

• Conduit path: Bends, turns, and elevation changes in the conduit path dramatically increase both tension and sidewall pressure. The angle and radius of a bend are critical variables in the tension calculation.

• Pull length: The total length of the pull directly affects the cumulative friction and weight forces, requiring more tension for longer runs.

• Cable configuration: When pulling multiple cables, their arrangement within the conduit (e.g., triangular or flat cradle) affects how they interact with each other and the conduit wall.