What is post-tensioning?

Post-tensioning is an architect’s dream, a developer’s delight, a great tool for builders, and environmentally friendly. It allows practically any type of structure to be built while decreasing environmental impacts, construction time, materials, and prices. PT technology has come a long way since its earliest applications, especially in terms of performance, quality assurance, and longevity, as well as corrosion protection. But what is it, exactly? What’s more, why should you be interested?

The following are the main advantages of post-tensioned floors over conventional reinforced concrete in-situ flooring:
Reduced Duration of The Construction Program
Post tensioning is a less time-consuming method of construction. The efficient usage and re-use of formwork is a major aspect in the speed of construction of a post-tensioned framed building. Early stressing of tendons allows for the early recovery of formwork with post-tensioning.
Greater Spans As Well As Reduced Beams
Post tensioned techniques allow designers to produce larger spans at a lower cost, giving them more freedom. The use of post tensioning allows for flat slab construction without the use of beams in most cases. This has significant advantages, including ease of construction, waste reduction, and simplified service installation.
Reduction In Slab Deflection
Because the thickness of post-tension slabs is reduced, the amount of concrete and reinforcement used is reduced by 20%–30% when compared to a conventional concrete slab. The tension imposed on the strand causes the slab to deflect minimal amount in the final state.
Reduction In The Amount of Raw Materials Used
Because of the nature of post tensioned construction, it is more cost effective in terms of time, materials, and labor. Post-tensioning strand has a strength that is approximately four times that of conventional reinforcement. As a result, the total weight of reinforcing material is significantly reduced.
Floor Thickness Reduction
The thickness of the slab can be significantly reduced compare to normal slab, resulting in cost savings in terms of delivery to site and impact on the environment. Over a traditional reinforced slab, up to 30% of the concrete and 66% of the reinforcement can be ended up saving. Because of the need for vibration controls in certain areas, such as theaters, the slab thickness may not be reduced as much.
Future Flexibility
Once a building has been designed and constructed, its greatest asset may be its ability to change for future development or changes in use. Using post tensioned techniques gives greater flexibility and the changes can be made and accommodate for future changes.
Reduced Floor to Floor Height
Because the thickness of the post-tension slabs is reduced, the overall story and building height are reduced.
Flexibility
Due to the reduction in reinforcement and strand density of post tensioned slabs, greater flexibility is afforded for the late changes that may occur in the construction process.