Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and

Technology

Department of Architecture

Building Construction and Materials – IX

Assignment- 4
Topic- Post-tensioning

Submitted by-
Tanya Goyal
14001006070
Post-tensioning
Post-tensioning is a method of reinforcing concrete or other construction materials with high-
strength steel strands/wires/cables generally known as tendons. In posttensioning, the tension is
applied to the tendons after hardening of the concrete or other materials.

Applications include office and apartment buildings, parking structures, slabs-on-ground, bridges,
sports stadiums, rock and soil anchors, and water-tanks.

Stages of Post-tensioning
The various stages of the post-tensioning operation are summarised as follows.
1) Casting of concrete.
2) Placement of the tendons.
3) Placement of the anchorage block and jack.
4) Applying tension to the tendons.
5) Seating of the wedges.
6) Cutting of the tendons.

Types of Post Tensioning

Bounded Post-tensioning
Bonded post-tensioned concrete is a method of applying compression after pouring concrete and
during the curing process (in situ). The concrete is cast around a plastic/steel/aluminum circular/flat
duct. A group of tendons/wires/cables are fished through the duct circular/flat and the concrete is
poured, Once the concrete has hardened, the tendons are tensioned by hydraulic jacks that react (push)
against the concrete member itself. When the tendons have stressed sufficiently, according to the
design specifications, they are wedged in position and maintain tension after the jacks is removed;
transferring pressure to the concrete, then duct is grouted to protect the tendons from corrosion.

Advantage of Bounded Post-tensioning System

 Large reduction in conventional reinforcement.
 Tendons cannot distress in accidents.
 Tendons can be easily 'introduced' allowing a more efficient design approach.
 Bond generated b/w the strand and concrete leads higher ultimate stress.
 No issues with maintaining the integrity of the anchor/dead end.

Un-bonded Post-tensioning System

Un-bonded post-tensioned system varies from bonded post-tensioning system by providing each
individual cable coated with grease (generally lithium based) and covered by a plastic sheathing, after
concreting the stressing is processed.

Advantage of unbounded Post-tensioning System

 Reduces friction losses
 Grouting not required
 Smaller diameter
 Provides greater lever arm
 Simplifies prefabrications of tendons
 Faster Construction

Disadvantages of Un-bonded
"Cable can de-stress itself and burst out of the slab if damaged (such as during repair on the slab)"

Pt threaded bars
High-strength, high capacity threaded bars are cold-rolled steel and each are supplied with a bearing
plate, hex nut, couplers and grout caps. PTE Strand’s Threaded Bar Systems have many applications
including:
 Geotechnical uses such as Soil & Rock Anchors, Tie-backs, and Tower Crane Foundations.
 Retaining Walls and Tunnels.
 Attaching Steel elements to concrete structures.

Components Of Post-Tensioning

Bonded System
Un-Bonded

Floor System and Suitable Arrangement for Slab

Floor System Span Range

Flat Plate 7-10 MTR

Flat Slab with Drops 8-12 MTR

Beam Slab 8-16 MTR

Beam Waffle Slab 10-20 MTR

Advantages of Post-tensioning
The advantages of post-tensioning bring to a structure include-
 large span, column free floor spaces provide flexibility for internal planning and space
utilization.
 reduces the amount of conventional reinforcement and concrete required thus delivering a
more adoptable and environmentally friendly solution.
 Post-tensioning is suitable for heavy cast-in-place members.
 The waiting period in the casting bed is less.
 The transfer of prestress is independent of transmission length.
 Greater flexibility of design,
 Reduce storey heights
 Flat soffit- two-way post tensioning flat slabs dispense with the requirement for drop beams,
providing enhanced flexibility for space partitioning and for the placing of service networks.
(HVAC, electrical, sanitary etc.)
 Thinner slabs
  Deflection control and Crack control

Disadvantage of Post-tensioning
The disadvantage of post-tensioning is the requirement of anchorage device and grouting equipment.

Applications of Post-tensioning system in building construction

 Flat slab
 Beam and slab
 Podium slabs in low rise building
 Transfer plates
 Raft foundation
 Ground support slab in industrial areas
 Restore geometry in seismic frames

Factors Affecting the Cost of Post-tensioning

 Tendon Lengths
 Tendon Arrangement
 Structural System
 Treatment of Construction Joints
 Main Contractor
 Site Access

References
http://www.vhptsystem.com/services
https://www.slideshare.net/rajeshbburde/prestressed-concrete-36691505
https://www.slideshare.net/100003037368181/post-tension-69107082