Catenary Calculator — Overhead Line Equipment
Calculate overhead wire heights, mast spacing and wire sag for electrified lines.
Select railway gauge or choose Custom
Select an option for era
Total length of railway track
How We Calculate This
Scales UK overhead line equipment (OLE) dimensions to your chosen gauge.
UK OLE Standards (Scaled)
- Contact wire height = 4800mm / Scale ratio
- Mast spacing = 54000mm / Scale ratio (straight track)
- Mast count = Track length / Mast spacing + 1
- Wire sag = Mast spacing / 40
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.