How Does Pre-Stressed Concrete Work?

Concrete is one of the most used materials in the world. Concrete can build roads, bridges, basements, homes and many other things that we see every day in life. As our technology grows, we now have better ways to use concrete and to help make it even stronger. One of these is using pre-stressed concrete. This type on concrete works a little differently.

• Know the advantages of using pre-stressed concrete. When concrete cracks it is weakened and needs to be fixed, and this can cost a lot of money. Pre-stressed concrete cracks less and can save time and money in repairs. Another advantage to using pre-stressed concrete is that you can use thinner slabs. This can be very helpful in buildings with a lot of floors, making more room and therefore getting more for your money. 


• Learn how to stress concrete. This can be done three different ways. One way is by placing tensile rods in place, tightening them and then pouring the concrete. This process will increase the tensile strength when it is loosened. There is annother way, which is to pour concrete and placing tendons. Then, allow the concrete to dry and then tighten the tendons by using hydraulic jacks. This is the most common way of stressing concrete. The third way to stress concrete is to pour the concrete and connect the tensile with steel anchors. This way may cost you in repairs later on if the cables break loose.


• Find out what way will best suit what you are trying to do. Each way has it’s own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the job that needs done. Weigh each option's pros and cons to determine what way would be best for you and your needs.