I realize that it’s not ideal for standard coax and connectors to be subjected to this sort of strain. I’m just wondering if there is something purpose built for an application like this. I suppose I could use parachute cord and rig something that way!
Thanks,
Brian
If you look at the specifications for good name brand coax, you'll see tensile strength listed. Real (not Chinese knock off) Times-Microwave LMR-240 has a tensile strength of 80 pounds:
https://timesmicrowave.com/DataSheets/CableProducts/LMR-240.pdf
Connector installation will impact this. The cable may hold 80 pounds, but a poorly installed connector may fail at much less.
I've got a site at work where we had to run two sections of 1-5/8 inch Heliax up a mechanical chase. It runs about 5 floors. There is only access at the top and bottom. There is a Kellum grip installed at both the top and the bottom that the cable hangs on. These are spec'd/supplied by the manufacturer exactly for this sort of installation. The cable weighs about 1 pound per foot, so a considerable amount of weight on those grips. And it's been there since 1994 without any issues. But this is 'hardline' coax, and it's much more rugged than standard braided coax.
So, yes, it can be suspended, -IF- you do it correctly. A small antenna won't be much of an issue. Key is properly installed coaxial connector, and maybe adding a separate support rope.
As for ruggedized. Yes, they exist. But they get expensive. For what you are doing, I don't think you need something at that level. Just use high quality coaxial cable. Make sure your coax connectors are installed correctly. Use adhesive lined heat shrink over all the connector crimps.
Unless you have a pet chimpanzee that likes to swing from your antennas, you should be just fine with regular off the shelf cable. Looking at some of the hammy installs I see, there's a lot of loose/floppy cables hanging from beam antennas, masts, etc.