Title:
Understanding the Mysterious Overstrength of Post-Tensioned Flexural Members
Author(s):
K. Dirk Bondy, Ken Bondy, and Bryan Allred
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
47
Issue:
7
Appears on pages(s):
33-36
Keywords:
capacity, precompression, strength, moment
DOI:
10.14359/51748935
Date:
7/1/2025
Abstract:
Precompression is included in service stress analyses of post-tensioned (PT) members but is ignored in flexural strength calculations. With the goal of reassuring practicing engineers that restraint cracking should not be a concern with respect to flexural strength, the authors explain why PT flexural members have significantly greater capacity than predicted by typical calculations.
Related References:
1. Aalami, B.O., and Barth, F.G., “Restraint Cracks and Their Mitigation in Unbonded Post-Tensioned Building Structures,” Post-Tensioning Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1986, 49 pp.
2. Ojo, T., and Roberts-Wollmann, C., “Comparison of Post-Tensioned Slabs with Banded-Uniform and Banded-Banded Tendon Arrangements,” ACI Structural Journal, V. 119, No. 4, July 2022, pp. 211-223.