This code covers the general structural use of prestressed concrete. It provides comprehensive guidelines on materials, design limit states, serviceability criteria, loss calculations, and detailing for pre-tensioned and post-tensioned concrete members.
Provides guidelines for the design and construction of prestressed concrete structures.
Quick Reference Values
minimum concrete grade pretensioningM 40
minimum concrete grade posttensioningM 30
maximum cement content450 kg/m3
max initial stress in steel at anchorage0.76 fp
min clear cover moderate exposure30 mm
Key Formulas
Px = P0 * e^-(mu * alpha + k * x) — Loss of prestress due to friction
Mu = fpb * Ap * (d - 0.42 * xu) — Ultimate moment of resistance for bonded tendons
Practical Notes
Losses in prestress (friction, wobble, shrinkage, creep, relaxation) must be meticulously calculated to ensure long-term serviceability and avoid excessive deflections.
Bursting forces in post-tensioned anchorage zones require specialized local reinforcement detailing (spalling and bursting links) to prevent concrete splitting.
Proper grouting of post-tensioned ducts is critical for preventing corrosion of high-strength tendons and ensuring structural integrity.