Post-tensioning

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 post tensioning, the tension is applied to the tendons after hardening
of the concrete or other materials.
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
 Bonded Post-tensioning
 Un-bonded Post-tensioning System

Bonded Post-tensioning
if concreting is done over the tendons directly, then a bond forms between concrete and
tendons. Which helps to transfer the forces using bond mechanism.
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

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.

when concreting is done using ducts for the tendons,

then tendons doesn't comes in contact with concrete,
and hence no bonds formed. All the forces transferred
to the concrete by end blocks.

Advantage

• Reduces friction losses

• Grouting not required
• Smaller diameter
• Provides greater lever arm
• Simplifies prefabrications of tendons
• Faster Construction
Components Of Post-Tensioning
Components Of Post-Tensioning
Advantages of Post-tensioning
 longer spans, column free floor spaces
 reduced structural thicknesses
 reduces the amount of conventional reinforcement
and concrete
 environmentally friendly solution.
 material savings
 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..)
 Reduced Cracking and Deflection.
 Post-tensioning is suitable for heavy cast-in-place members.
 The waiting period in the casting bed is less.
Application of Post tensioning
Post tensioning over pre tensioninig
 Pre tensioned process is more suitable for items which are mass
produced.For example, electric poles, precast beams and slabs, cellular
modules of the longspan bridges.
 The factory environment is more suitable for a pretensioning plant. The
equipment and the fixtures are such that it requires an elaborate
arrangement which is difficult to organize at site. The set up cost
is prohibitive if used only for a few elements.
 Post tensioning is relatively easy to arrange at site. The tensioning
equipment is hand held, portable and can be conveniently handled by
one operator.
Buildings used post tentioning

ITPL- Bangalore One Horizon Centre- Delhi Marathon-Futurex-Mumbai

WTT- Delhi Shangrila-Bangalore

Arrangements of Post-Tensionned Precast Frames
 Alternating Tendon Arrangement
with Stressing Pocket
Partly Precast Frame Partly Precast Frame: Section through Beam

Vertical joint with overlapping

hair pins and a vertical reinforcing
bar, filled with grout or insitu concrete

(b) Vertical Joint

Restraint-Free Slab- Expansion Joint Details of Connections between Post-Tensioned

Details of Wall Panel Details Slabs and Previously Cast Walls or Edge Beams
to-Wall Connections