Prestressing Tendons: Diameter 12.7-15.2 mm

Component Specifications

Definition

Prestressing tendons are high-tensile steel strands, wires, or bars embedded in concrete bridge beams to introduce permanent compressive stresses, counteracting tensile forces from loads. They are tensioned before or after concrete casting, transferring stress through anchorage systems to improve structural performance, reduce deflection, and prevent cracking under service conditions.

Working Principle

Tendons are tensioned using hydraulic jacks, inducing elastic elongation. This tension creates compressive forces in the concrete upon anchoring, balancing tensile stresses from external loads (e.g., traffic, dead weight). The principle relies on pre-compression to keep concrete in compression, enhancing stiffness and fatigue resistance.

Materials

High-carbon steel (e.g., ASTM A416, EN 10138), typically 7-wire strands with ultimate tensile strength of 1, 860-2, 000 MPa. Epoxy coating or galvanization may be applied for corrosion protection in aggressive environments.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Diameter	12.7-15.2 mm
Anchorage Type	Wedge or button-head
Relaxation Class	Low relaxation (2.5% max)
Tensile Strength	1,860 MPa
Modulus Of Elasticity	195 GPa

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 6934-4, ASTM A416, EN 10138, DIN 1045

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Bridge Beam

A primary horizontal structural member that carries vertical loads and transfers them to bridge supports.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Corrosion leading to tendon failure
Anchorage slippage under cyclic loads
Grout voids in ducts causing stress concentrations
Over-tensioning causing concrete spalling

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Inadequate grout coverage in ducts
Failure: Localized corrosion and tendon fracture
Mitigation: Use vacuum grouting, inspect with ultrasonic testing, and specify non-porous duct materials.

Trigger: Fatigue from traffic-induced cyclic loading
Failure: Progressive strand breakage and loss of prestress
Mitigation: Design with fatigue-resistant steel, apply protective coatings, and monitor stress levels via sensors.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±6% on jacking force, ±10 mm on tendon placement

Test Method

Tensile testing per ASTM A416, relaxation tests per ASTM E328, corrosion resistance per ASTM A1057

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

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Inspection readiness

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Manufacturers of Prestressing Tendons

Manufacturer profiles associated with Prestressing Tendons.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between pre-tensioning and post-tensioning tendons?

Pre-tensioning tendons are tensioned before concrete is cast, with stress transferred after curing. Post-tensioning tendons are tensioned after concrete hardening, using ducts and anchorage systems, allowing more flexibility in complex bridge designs.

How are prestressing tendons protected from corrosion?

Corrosion protection includes galvanizing, epoxy coating, grease injection, or sheathing (e.g., HDPE ducts). In post-tensioning, grout is often pumped into ducts to encase tendons, providing a alkaline environment that passivates steel.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Prestressing Tendons