Title: Philosophy of Design of Partial Prestressing

Author(s): P.W. Abeles

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 59

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 287-304

Keywords: cracking (fracturing); fatigue (materials); loads (forces); partial prestressing; post-tensioning; prestressed concrete; prestressing; prestressing steels; pretensioning; structural design

DOI: 10.14359/17778

Date: 1/1/1979

Abstract:
A mixed solution of conventional design with pre-tensioned tendons was suggested by F.v.Emperger in many possiblities in 1941. The preferred solution is a design in which the section is in compression under frequently occurring load (which may also be dead load). Another solution relates to avoiding visible cracks under working load. (Limited prestress, Class 2 CEB). The latter was successfully introduced by British Railways in 1948 and in Germany in 1951/53. Very statisfactory fatigue tests were carried out in Liège in 1951. Previously full prestressing, at which only compressive stresses occur, was considered the only satisfactory solution; but according to Leonhardt this is a waste of energy. T.Y. Lin has the greatest practical experience with partial prestressing with his method of load counterbalancing.