post-tensioned
Tensioned after pouring
Post-tensioned describes concrete that has been strengthened by steel cables or bars tensioned after the concrete has hardened.
The technique allows for longer spans and thinner slabs than conventional reinforced concrete: post-tensioned beams, a post-tensioned parking garage.
The cables run through ducts in the concrete and are anchored at the ends, placing the concrete under compression to resist cracking.
Inducing initial compression
- tendonsFibrous connective cords
- cablesHeavy ropes or wires
- ductsEnclosed passage tubes
- anchoragesPlaces ships secure themselves
grouting · jacking · bonded · unbonded · multistrand · elongation · stressing · hydraulic
Thick flat pieces
- beamsRays or supports
- bridgesStructures spanning obstacles
- viaductsElevated bridges over valleys
- high-riseMultistory tall building
tanks · silos · containment · pavements · runways · foundations · podiums · reservoirs
Forcing into smaller space
- spanDistance between endpoints
- load-bearingSustaining structural mass
- deflectionChange in trajectory
- durabilityResistance to wear
Elevated road crossings
- flyoversElevated road crossings
- cable-stayedSupported by diagonal tendons
- interchangesReciprocal substitutions or swaps
- rampsInclined connecting surfaces
aqueducts · monorails · guideway · viaducts · footbridges
prestressing
Inducing initial compression
anchorages · grouting · jacking · bonded · unbonded · multistrand · elongation · stressing · hydraulic · strand
slabs
Thick flat pieces
high-rise · tanks · silos · containment · pavements · runways · foundations · podiums · reservoirs · balconies
compression
Forcing into smaller space
- spanDistance between endpoints
- load-bearingSustaining structural mass
- deflectionChange in trajectory
durability · camber · serviceability · efficiency · watertightness
overpasses
Elevated road crossings
- flyoversElevated road crossings
- cable-stayedSupported by diagonal tendons
- interchangesReciprocal substitutions or swaps
ramps · aqueducts · monorails · guideway · viaducts · footbridges