Prestressing

Definition

Prestressing involves applying compressive stress to a concrete structural member to increase its strength.

Purpose

The purpose of prestressing is to improve the performance and load-carrying capacity of concrete structures by counteracting the tensile stresses that occur under loading conditions.

Examples of Use

• Bridge Girders: Prestressing improves the load capacity and reduces the size of girders required.
• Building Floors: Providing greater span lengths and reducing the need for interior columns.
• Railway Sleepers: Enhancing durability and load resistance under heavy rail traffic.

Related Terms

• Prestressed Concrete: Concrete in which internal stresses are introduced to counteract potential tensile stresses.
• Pretensioning: A specific type of prestressing where the steel tendons are tensioned before the concrete is poured.
• Post-Tensioning: Another prestressing technique where tendons are tensioned after the concrete has set.

Notes

• Techniques: Prestressing can be achieved through pretensioning or post-tensioning methods.
• Benefits: Results in lighter, stronger, and more durable concrete elements.