Post Tensioning Design and Construction

25 - 27 April 2012

Purpose and Background

This course provides the know-how and tools for efficient and economical designs of post-tensioned structures. It presents the latest developments in construction technology, code provisions, design procedures, and software tools. After a brief introduction to current post-tensioning systems and construction practice, the course continues with the economics of both grouted and unbonded options, and covers the practical design concepts and design procedures for beams, one-way and column supported two-way flat slab construction. Each step is supplemented with well-documented literature, examples, and computer simulations.

The course continues with the state-of-the-art methods for graphical modelling of structures for analysis and design of floor systems, including the efficient use of AutoCad drawings, Revit Structure © and ADAPT's model generation tools in bringing BIM with reach of everyday consulting work. It presents an integrated and seamless process for generating structural calculations, post-tensioning and reinforcement drawings, shop (fabrication) drawings and the estimate of quantities. The course demonstrates the efficient integration of analysis results, obtained from third party softwarefor the overall stability of a structure under wind and earthquake, with the gravity design using ADAPT software system. The course also covers short and long-term deflections, cracking, crack width calculation, and vibration evaluation and control.

Learning Objectives

This programme will include:

• Current post-tensioning systems and construction practice in buildings and parking structure
• Economic advantages of post-tensioning in building construction
• Design concepts, procedures and detailing of post-tensioned structures
• Latest design code provisions for design of post-tensioned structures (EC2, ACI 318-2008, International Building Code-2009)
• Overview and application of TR43 Report
• Short and long-term deflections; cracking and crack width calculation
• Detailed long hand calculations for post-tensioning design and design verification
• Evaluation of concrete floors for vibration and vibration control
• Finite element application to design of post-tensioned buildings
• Equivalent frame and Finite element application to design of post-tensioned buildings
• Structural modelling of post-tensioned buildings and design, using ADAPT software system,
• AutoCad and Revit Structure ©
• Time-dependent behaviour and creep analysis of pre-stressed concrete beams/slabs
• Hands-on software and design training workshop

Course Benefits 

Course attendees will receive comprehensive course notes and reference material including detailed design examples

• Find out about the latest developments in post-tensioning systems, its construction practice, and economical advantages
• Understand the requirements of EC2, BS8110, ACI, IBC (International Building Code) building codes, TR43 Report, and their impact on your design
• Learn how to avoid costly errors by using an integrated approach in design from architectural drawings to structural documents
• Become skilled in tendon layout and detailing for good construction practice
• Examine the possibilities of using powerful software tailored for the design of post-tensioned and conventionally reinforced concrete, including modelling and design through ADAPT software system and Revit Structure ©
• Learn to optimize the design process for efficiency and economy
• Learn how to integrate effectively the lateral analysis of buildings with the gravity design of their floors

Who Should attend

• Structural engineers engaged in concrete and/or post-tensioning design
• Contractors interested in the design of post-tensioned structures
• Engineers responsible for the review of post-tensioned designs
• Academics and students with an interest and background in concrete design
• Building officials and city plan checkers
• Engineers charged with retrofit of post-tensioned buildings
• Forensic engineers who deal with post-tensioned structures