8 PRESTRESSED CONCRETE [Ch.

post-tensioning according to any one of the several available methods, are

generally referred to as a post-tensioning system. Most of the systems were
invented and developed in Europe or were modeled after a system that was
developed in Europe. The various systems are or were patented; this
unfortunately has deterred the use of the method. The principal features
of the systems which are typical of those commonly used in this country
are described in detail in Chapter 11 and Appendix C.

1–6. Pre-tensioning vs. Post-tensioning. It is generally considered

impractical to use post-tensioning on very short members, because the
elongation of a short tendon, during the stressing, is small and would require
very precise measurement by the workmen. In addition, many of the post
tensioning systems do not function well with very short tendons. A number
of short members can be made in series on a pre-tensioning bench without
difficulty and without the necessity of precise measurement of the elongation
of the tendons during stressing, since relatively long tendon lengths result
by making a number of short members in series.
It has been pointed out that very large members may be more economical
when cast in place and post-tensioned or when precast and post-tensioned
near the job site rather than by attempting to transport and handle large
pre-tensioned structural elements.
Post-tensioning allows the tendons to be placed through the structural
elements on smooth curves of any desired trajectory with little difficulty.
Pre-tensioned tendons can be employed on other than straight trajectories
but not without expensive plant facilities and somewhat complicated con
struction procedures.
The cost of post-tensioned tendons, measured in either cost per pound of
prestressing steel or in cost per pound of effective prestressing force, is
generally greater than the cost of pre-tensioned tendons. This is due to the
larger amount of labor required in placing, stressing, and grouting post
tensioned tendons and the cost of the special anchorage devices and stressing
equipment. A post-tensioned member may require less total prestressing
force than an equally strong pre-tensioned member, however, and for this
reason, care must be exercised when comparing the relative cost of these
modes of prestressing.
The basic shape of a pre-tensional flexural member may be different from
the most economical shape which can be found for a post-tensioned design.
This is particularly true of moderate- and long-span
members and somewhat
complicates generalizing on which method is best under such conditions.
Post-tensioning is generally regarded as a method of making prestressed
concrete at the job site, yet post-tensioned beams are often made in pre
casting plants and transported to the job site. Pre-tensioning is often
thought of as a method of manufacturing prestressed concrete which is
limited to permanent precasting plants. Yet on very large projects where