Poldo, Christian Vincent O.

CE 513 / CE52S1

CHAPTER 5: SHEAR AND TORSIONAL STRENGTH DESIGN

Prestressed concrete is a construction material that incorporates internal forces to
counteract external loads, enhancing its structural performance. Shear and torsional
strength are critical aspects of prestressed design, ensuring the safety and stability of
structures subjected to various loads.

I. Basic Concepts:
i. Prestressing: The application of forces to a structure before it is
subjected to external loads, increasing its load-carrying capacity and
minimizing deflection.
ii. Shear Strength: The ability of a material to withstand forces acting
parallel to its cross-sectional area.
iii. Torsional Strength: The resistance of a material to twisting or rotation
due to applied torque.
II. Factors Influencing Shear and Torsional Strength in Prestressed
Structures:
i. Prestressing Force: The magnitude and distribution of prestressing
force significantly affect shear and torsional strength.
ii. Concrete Strength: The compressive strength of concrete is a
fundamental parameter influencing shear strength.
iii. Shear Reinforcement: The addition of shear reinforcement, such as
stirrups or helical reinforcement, enhances shear strength.
iv. Torsional Reinforcement: Proper detailing of torsional reinforcement,
like closed stirrups, is crucial to resist torsional forces.
III. Code Provisions:
i. Various design codes, such as ACI 318 (American Concrete
Institute) and Eurocode 2, provide guidelines for shear and torsional
strength design in prestressed concrete structures.
ii. These codes specify equations and factors to determine the required
amount of prestressing force, shear reinforcement, and torsional
reinforcement.
IV. Shear Strength Design:
i. Consideration of shear span-to-depth ratio, which influences the
distribution of shear forces.
ii. Proper detailing of shear reinforcement to prevent premature failure
and enhance ductility.
iii. Incorporation of web reinforcement in prestressed members to resist
shear forces.
 V. Torsional Strength Design:
i. Evaluation of torsional effects in members with irregular shapes or
loading.
ii. Proper detailing of torsional reinforcement, especially in members
with high torsional moments.
iii. Use of empirical formulas and code provisions to ensure adequate
torsional strength.
VI. Case Studies:
i. Inclusion of case studies highlighting successful applications of
shear and torsional strength design in prestressed structures.
ii. Analysis of structures that have faced challenges and lessons
learned from their design and construction.
VII. Conclusion:
Shear and torsional strength are critical considerations in the design
of prestressed structures, impacting their overall safety and performance.
Adherence to design codes, proper detailing of reinforcement, and
continuous research are essential for advancing the field and ensuring the
longevity of prestressed structures.