An investigation into the forces required to tow cables and sledges over Antarctic snow

The results of trials to investigate the forces required to tow cables and small sledges on Antarctic snow are discussed. Once moving, cables which were straight and towed at a constant speed showed drag factors of between 20 and 30%. For non-straight cables the drag factor could rise to 40% or more. A loaded sledge on a firm snow surface showed a drag factor of around 10%. The forces required to start the cables or sledges moving showed a much wider and less predictable range of drag factors.

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