How to pre-tension a model (using thermal expansion coefficient?)

[BobUCL]

Hello

I have an Abaqus 2d model of a cable (made of beam elements) subject to dynamic loading. I want to model it with both ends pinned. However, I also want to apply a pre-tension force to it and the only way Abaqus would allow me to do this was by making one end a pin-roller and applying the tension force at that end.

Would I be able to get around this by applying a thermal stress to the cable, so that I can have two pin ends? If yes, please could someone explain to me how to do this?

Or, does anyone has any other suggestions for pre-stressing/pre-tensioning without having to use a pin-roller support?

Thanks you

 

[corus]

The stress is simply E.alpha.T so just set T, the temperature, to the required value.

Tara