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Structuralaka: PSCaka: prestressed concrete

Pre-Stressed Concrete

In Plain English

Concrete that has been pre-compressed with steel tendons so it resists cracking under heavy loads.

Definition

Concrete in which internal compressive stresses are introduced before service loads are applied, counteracting the tensile stresses that would cause cracking under load. Pre-stressing is achieved by pre-tensioning (tensioning tendons before casting) or post-tensioning (tensioning after casting). Pre-stressed concrete enables longer spans, thinner sections, and improved durability compared to conventional reinforced concrete.

Example

Pre-stressed concrete double-tee members span 60 feet to frame the precast parking deck without mid-span columns.

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