IS code - IS:1343 – 2012

In the early days, it was observed that the prestressing force does not stay constant, but reduces with time.
Even during prestressing of the tendons and the transfer of prestress to the concrete member, there is a drop
of the prestressing force from the recorded value in the jack gauge.

The various reductions of the prestressing force are termed as the losses in prestress. The losses are broadly
classified into two groups, immediate and time-dependent. The immediate losses occur during prestressing
of the tendons and the transfer of prestress to the concrete member. The time-dependent losses occur during
the service life of the prestressed member.

IS1343 2012 Page 24, CL19.5.2

• Elastic Shortening
i. Pre-tensioned Members
When the tendons are cut and prestress are transferred to concrete, member shortens and the prestressing steel
also shortens along with it. This results in loss of pre-stress and is called loss due to elastic shortening of
concrete.

If fc is the stress in concrete at the level of prestress and ‘m’ is the Modular ratio defined as modulus of
elasticity of prestressing steel to modulus of elasticity of concrete. The strain at the level of Prestressing steel
ec = fc / Ec

The stress in prestressing steel corresponding to strain will be equal to m × fc

𝐸
Loss in prestress = m × fc = 𝐸𝑆 × fc
𝐶

ii. Post-tensioned Members

If there is only one tendon, there is no loss because the applied prestress is recorded after the elastic shortening
of the member. For more than one tendon, if the tendons are stretched sequentially, there is loss in a tendon
during subsequent stretching of the other tendons. elastic shortening loss is quantified by the drop in prestress
(Δfp) in a tendon due to the change in strain in the tendon (Δεp).

• Friction

The friction generated at the interface of concrete and steel during the stretching of a curved tendon in a post-
tensioned member, leads to a drop in the prestress along the member from the stretching end. The loss due to
friction does not occur in pre-tensioned members because there is no concrete during the stretching of the
tendons. The friction is generated due to the curvature of the tendon and the vertical component of the
prestressing force. The following figure shows a typical profile (laying pattern) of the tendon in a continuous
beam.
In addition to friction, the stretching must overcome the wobble of the tendon. The wobble refers to the
change in position of the tendon along the duct. The losses due to friction and wobble are grouped together
under friction.

The friction is proportional to the following variables.

i. Coefficient of friction (μ) between concrete and steel.

ii. Resultant of the vertical reaction from the concrete on the tendon (N) generated due to curvature.

The loss due to friction can be considerable for long tendons in continuous beams with changes in curvature.
The drop in the prestress is higher around the intermediate supports where the curvature is high. The remedy
to reduce the loss is to apply the stretching force from both ends of the member in stages.

• Anchorage Slip

In a post-tensioned member, when the prestress is transferred to the concrete, the wedges slip through a little
distance before they get properly seated in the conical space. The anchorage block also moves before it settles
on the concrete. There is loss of prestress due to the consequent reduction in the length of the tendon.

The total anchorage slip depends on the type of anchorage system. Due to the setting of the anchorage block,
as the tendon shortens, there is a reverse friction. Hence, the effect of anchorage slip is present up to a certain
length.

The magnitude of loss of stress due to the slip in anchorage is computed as follows: -
 • Creep

The sustained prestress in the concrete of a prestress member results in creep of concrete which is effectively
reduces the stress in high tensile steel. The loss of stress in steel due to creep of concrete can be estimated if
the magnitude of ultimate creep strain or creep-coefficient is known.

1. Ultimate Creep strain method

The loss of stress in steel due to creep of concrete = εcc fc Es , where εcc is Ultimate creep strain for a
sustained unit stress, fc Compressive stress in concrete at the level of steel and Es Modulus of elasticity of
steel

2. Creep Coefficient Method

The magnitude of creep coefficient varies depending upon the humidity, concrete quality, duration of applied
loading and the age of concrete when loaded. The general value recommended varies from 1.5 for watery
situation to 4.0 for dry conditions with a relative humidity of 35%.

• Shrinkage of Concrete

1. The loss due to shrinkage of concrete results in shortening of tensioned wires & hence contributes to the
loss of stress.

2. The shrinkage of concrete is influenced by the type of cement, aggregate & the method of curing used.

3. Use of high strength concrete with low water cement ratio results in reduction in shrinkage and
consequent loss of prestress.

4. The primary cause of drying shrinkage is the progressive loss of water from concrete.

5. The rate of shrinkage is higher at the surface of the member.

6. The differential shrinkage between the interior surfaces of large member may result in strain gradients
leading to surface cracking.
Hence, proper curing is essential to prevent cracks due to shrinkage in prestress members. In the case of
pretensioned members, generally moist curing is restored in order to prevent shrinkage until the time of
transfer. Consequently, the total residual shrinkage strain will be larger in pretensioned members after transfer
of prestress in comparison with post-tensioned members, where a portion of shrinkage will have already taken
place by the time of transfer of stress. This aspect has been considered in the recommendation made by the
code (IS:1343) for the loss of prestress due to shrinkage of concrete and is obtained below:

200×10−6
If εcs is the total residual shrinkage strain = 300 x 10-6 for pretensioning and 𝑙𝑜𝑔 for post-tensioning
10 (𝑡+2)

Where t is age of concrete at transfer in days

Then the loss of stress = εcs x Es where Es – modulus of elasticity of steel

• Relaxation of Steel

Relaxation of steel is defined as the decrease in stress with time under constant strain. Due to the relaxation
of steel, the prestress in the tendon is reduced with time. The relaxation depends on the type of steel, initial
prestress and the temperature. The BIS recommends a value varying from 0 to 90 N/mm2 for stress in wires
varying from 0.5 fpu to 0.8 fpu Where, fpu is Characteristic strength of pre-stressing tendon.

1. A pretensioned beam has a cross section of 300 X 600 mm and is concentric prestressed with 4 strands
each of area 250mm2. The strands are stressed to an initial prestress of 1250N/mm2. Compute the losss due
to elastic shortening. Assume M40 grade of concrete. Also find the percentage loss.

Solutions

In the given problem the strands are stressed concentrically we note that the loss due to elastic shortening
occurs simultaneously

Initial stress in strands = 1250N/mm2

Prestressing force = 250×4×1250 = 1.25 X 106N

 𝑃 1.25 ×10 6
Stress in concrete at level of strand (concentric), 𝑓𝑐 = 𝐴 = = 6.94N/mm2
300 ×600

𝐸
Loss = m 𝑓𝑐 = 𝐸𝑠 𝑓𝑐
𝑐

The value of 𝐸𝑠 can be obtained from Page 4, value of 𝐸𝑐 can be obtained from Page 5

195 ×10 3
= 5000 ×√40 × 6.94 = 42.795N/mm2

42.795
Percentage loss = 1250
× 100 = 3.405%

2. A pre-stressed concrete beam, 100 mm wide and 300 mm deep, is pre-tensioned by straight, wires carrying an
initial force of 150kN at an eccentricity of 50 mm. The modulus of elasticity of steel and concrete are 210 and 35
2
kN/mm respectively. Estimate the percentage loss of stress in steel due to elastic deformation of concrete if the
2
area of steel wires is 188 mm .

Solutions

Force P = 150 kN ; Eccentricity, e = 50 mm

Area of concrete section, A = (100 × 300) = 3 ×104

I = 225 ×106mm4

Area of the steel wire = 188 mm2

Section modulus Zb = 225 × 106/50 = 4.5× 106 mm4

Modular ratio, m = 210/35 = 6

Initial stress in steel = 150 × 103 /188 = 800 N/mm2

𝑃 𝑃×𝑒
Stress in concrete at the level of prestressing steel = = 𝐴 + = 6.6 N/mm2
𝑍𝑏

Loss of stress due to elastic deformation of concrete = 6 × 6.6 = 40 N/mm2

Percentage loss = 40 /800 × 100 = 5%

3. A rectangular concrete beam, 360 mm deep and 225mm wide is prestressed by means of 18, 5 mm diameter
wires located at 70 mm from the bottom of the beam and 4, 5 mm wires located 30 mm from the top of the
beam. If the wires are initially tensioned to stress of 940N/mm2. Calculate the percentage loss of stress in steel
immediately after transfer allowing for the loss of stress due to elastic deformation of concrete only. Take , 𝐸𝑠
= 210kN/mm2, 𝐸𝑐 = 34.5 kN/mm2

Solutions

A = 360×225 = 81000mm2, As = (18+4)× π ×52/4 = 431.97 mm2

 𝐸
Prestressing force = P = 940 × 431.97 = 406.05 × 103 N = 406 kN, m = 𝐸𝑠 = 6.09
𝑐

360
330

18 ×70+4 ×330
Position of the centroid of the wires from the soffit of the beam 𝑦̅𝑏 = (18+4)
= 117.27 mm, e = 180-

117.27 = 62.73 mm

Stresses in concrete

𝑃 𝑃𝑒 406 ×10 3 406 ×10 3 ×62.73 ×150

At the level of top wires = 𝐴 - 𝑦= − = 0.645 N/mm2
𝐼 81000 874.8 ×10 6

Loss of stress in wires at top = 6.09 × 0.645 = 3.928 N/mm2

𝑃 𝑃𝑒 406 ×10 3 406 ×10 3 ×62.73 ×150

At the level of bottom wires = 𝐴 + 𝑦= + = 8.216 N/mm2
𝐼 81000 874.8 ×10 6

Loss of stress in wires at bottom = 6.09 × 8.216 = 50.035 N/mm2

3.928
Percentage loss of stress at top = × 100 = 0.418%
940

50.035
Percentage loss of stress at bottom = × 100 = 5.323%
940

4. A prestressed beam 240 × 600 mm in section is prestressed with 3 straight cables each of area 200 mm2 .
the cables are located at 80 mm from the soffit. Initial prestress in the cable is 1000MPa. Determine the
percentage of loss of prestress due to concrete. Assume 𝐸𝑠 = 210kN/mm2. Take 𝐶𝑐 = 1.2 , modular ratio m =
6. Ultimate shrinkage strains δs = 2 × 10-4

Solutions

Since it is required to find percentage of loss due to concrete. Following losses i) elastic deformation of
concrete ii) creep of concrete iii) shrinkage of concrete is required for calculation

𝑓𝑠𝑖 = 1000 N/mm2

As = 3 × 200 = 600 mm2

P = 1000 × 3 × 200 = 600 × 103N = 600 kN, A = 240 × 600 = 144000mm2

 3
I = 240 × 600 ⁄12 = 4.32 × 109 mm4

e = 300 – 80 = 220 mm

Cc = 1.2 , δs = 2 X 10-4

i) Loss of prestress due to elastic deformation of concrete = m 𝑓𝑐

𝑃 𝑃𝑒 600 ×10 3 600 ×10 3 ×2202

*Stress in concrete at the level of steel 𝑓𝑐 = 𝐴 + 𝑦 = + = 10.89 N/mm2 ( Stress in
𝐼 144000 4.32×10 9

concrete at level of steel is different from the stress in the top or bottom fibre)

i) Loss of PS due to Elastic shortening = m 𝑓𝑐 = 6 × 10.89 = 65.34 N/mm2

ii) Loss of prestress due to creep = Cc m 𝑓𝑐 = 1.2 × 6 × 10.89 = 78.408 N/mm2

iii) Loss of prestress due to shrinkage = δs 𝐸𝑠 = 2 × 10-4 × 210 × 103 = 42 N/mm2

Total loss due to concrete = 65.34 + 78.40 + 42 = 185.74 N/mm2

Total percentage loss = 185.74/1000 × 100 = 18.57 %

5. A PSC beam 200 mm wide and 300mm deep is prestressed with wires of area 320 mm2 located at a constant
eccentricity of 50 mm and carrying an initial stress of 1000 N/mm 2. Span of the beam is 10m. Calculate the
percentage loss of stress in wires if a) the beam is pretensioned b) the beam is post tensioned, Using the
following data 𝐸𝑠 = 210kN/mm2, 𝐸𝑐 = 34.5 kN/mm2

Solutions

Relaxation of steel = 5% of intial stress

Shrinkage of concrete = 300 × 10-6 for pretensioning

= 200 × 10-6 for post tensioning

Creep coefficient Cc = 1.6

Slip at anchorage = 1 mm

Frictional coefficient for wave effects k = 0.0015/N

Solutions

A = 300 × 200 = 60000 mm2

P = 1000 × 320 /1000 = 320 kN, A = 240 × 600 = 144000mm2

2
I = 200 × 300 ⁄12 = 450 × 106 mm4

𝐸
As = 320 mm2 , l = 10 m , m = 𝐸𝑠 = 6.0
𝑐

𝑃 𝑃𝑒 320 ×10 3 320 ×10 3 ×50 ×50

*Stress in concrete at the level of steel = 𝑓𝑐 = 𝐴 + 𝑦= + = 7.11 N/mm2
𝐼 320 450 ×10 6

Pre tensioning Post tensioning

Loss due to elastic shortening m 𝑓𝑐 = 6 × 7.11 = 42.66 ½ m 𝑓𝑐 = 21.33 N/mm2
Loss due to relaxation of steel Table 6 IS 1343 Page 25 5% of initial stress = 5/100 ×1000
5% of initial stress = 5/100 ×1000 = 50 N/mm2
= 50 N/mm2
Loss due to creep Cc m 𝑓𝑐 = 1.6 × 6 × 7.11 = 68.25 68.25 N/mm2
N/mm2
Loss due to shrinkage of δs 𝐸𝑠 = 300 × 10-6 × 210 × 103 = δs 𝐸𝑠 = 200 × 10-6 × 210 × 103 =
concrete 63 N/mm2 42 N/mm2
Loss due to friction (wobble) k× l × Initial prestress =
0.0015 × 10 × 1000 = 15 N/mm2
Loss due to anchorage slip 𝛿𝑙 1
× 𝐸𝑐 = 10000 × 210 × 103 = 21
𝑙

N/mm2
Total loss 223.916 N/mm2 217.58 N/mm2
% Loss 223.916/1000 × 100 = 22.3% 217.586/1000 × 100 = 21.75%
6. In a PSC beam of section 220 × 300 mm having a span of 7 m. An initial prestressing force of 450kN is
applied at an eccentricity of 80 mm by tendons of area 400 mm2. Assuming 𝐸𝑠 = 210kN/mm2, 𝐸𝑐 = 0.33
× 105 MPa. Anchorage slip = 1.8 mm, Cc = 2, Shrinkage of concrete δs = 2 X 10 -4 Relaxation of steel = 3%
and all tendons are simultaneously tensioned. Find the total percentage of loss of prestress in tendons.

Solutions
A = 220×300 = 66000mm2, L = 7m, P = 450kN, e = 80mm, As = 400mm2 , 𝐸𝑠 = 210kN/mm2, 𝐸𝑐 = 0.33
× 105 MPa

Cc = 2, Shrinkage of concrete δs = 2 X 10-4

Modular ratio m = 210 / 33 = 6.36

𝑃 𝑃𝑒
Stress in concrete at the level of steel 𝑓𝑐 = 𝐴 + 𝑦 = 12.64 N/mm2
𝐼

Initial prestressing stress = P / As = 450000/ (400) = 1125 N/mm2

i) Loss of PS due to relaxation of steel = 3/100 × 1125 = 33.75 N/mm2

ii) Loss of prestress due to creep = Cc m 𝑓𝑐 = 2 × 6.31 × 12.64 = 159.51 N/mm2

iii) Loss of prestress due to shrinkage = δs 𝐸𝑠 = 2 × 10-4 × 210 × 103 = 42 N/mm2

iv) Loss of prestress due to anchorage slip = 54 N/mm2

Total loss due to concrete = 289.26 N/mm2

Total percentage loss = 25.712 %

7. A post tensioned beam of span 8m is simply supported at its ends. It is provided with a curved cable of area
800 mm2 with a slope of 1 in 20 at each ends and is intially stressed to 1200N/mm2. Take Es = 210kN/mm2.
Calculate i) loss of prestress due to friction if the friction between duct and cable is 0.5, wave effect is
0.0015/m. ii) loss due to slip is 2 mm at the jacking end during anchoring iii) the final force in the cable and
percentage loss of prestress due to friction and slip.
Es = 210 kN/mm2, P = 800 × 1200 = 960 kN, μ = 0.5, k = 0.0015/m, l = 8000 mm, δL = 2 mm, θ = change in
1
slope = 2 × 20 = 0.1

Solution

a) Loss due to friction = 𝑃𝑜 (𝜇𝜃 + 𝑘𝐿) =1200 × (0.5 × 0.1 + 0.0015 × 8) = 74.4 N/mm2
𝛿𝐿 2
b) Loss due to anchorage slip = × 𝐸𝑆 = × 2 × 103 = 52.5 N/mm2
𝐿 8000

Total loss due to slip and friction = 126.9N/ mm2

c) Final prestressing force = (1200 − 126.9)800 = 858.48kN

126.9
% loss = × 100 = 10.54 %
1200

8. A concrete beam AB of 20 m span is post-tensioned by a cable carrying a stress of 1000 N/mm2 at the
jacking end A. The cable is parabolic between the supports A and B and is concentric at the supports with an
eccentricity of 400 mm at the centre of span. The coefficient of friction between duct and cable as 0.35 and
friction coefficient for wave effect is 0.15 for 100 m. Calculate the stress allowing for losses due to friction
and wave effect at the following points:

(a) Assuming the jacking end as A, compute the effective stress at B

(b) If the cable is tensioned from both ends A and B, calculate the minimum stress after losses in the cable
and its location

Solutions

Span of the beam AB = L = 20 m

Eccentricity at centre of span = e = 400 mm

Coefficient of friction = 𝜇 = 0.35

Friction coefficient for wave effect = K = 0.15 for 100 m or 0.0015/m

The cable is parabolic between the supports A and B with an eccentricity of 40 mm at the centre of span C.

4𝑒
For a parabolic cable y = 𝐿2 (𝐿 − 𝑥)

𝑑𝑦 4𝑒 4𝑒
Slope at ends at x =0, = 𝜃= (𝐿 − 2𝑥) =
𝑑𝑥 𝐿2 𝐿
 4𝑒 4×400
Slope of cable at end support A 𝜃 = = =
𝐿 20000

Cumulative angle between tangents at A and B = α = (2 × ) = radians

Putting x = L, Loss of stress due to friction = 𝑃𝑜 (𝜇𝜃 + 𝑘𝐿)

a) Loss of stress due to friction between A and B = 𝑃𝑜 (𝜇𝜃 + 𝑘𝐿) where L is distance from the jacking
end to the point under consideration
1000 [(0.35 × 0.16 ) + (0.0015 × 20)] = 86 N/mm2

Effective stress at B = [1000 – 86 ] = 914 N/mm2

b) If the cable is tensioned simultaneously from both ends A and B, the minimum stress will occur at the
centre of span C.

Cumulative angle between A and C = α = 0.08 radians

Loss of stress between A and C = 1000[(0.35 × 0.08) + (0.0015 × 10)] = 43 N/mm2

Effective stress at the centre of span C = [1000 – 43] = 957 N/mm2

9. A pretensioned beam, 200 mm wide and 300 mm deep, is prestressed by 10 wires of 7 mm diameter initially
stressed to 1200 N/mm2, with their centroids located 100 mm from the soffit. Find the maximum stress in
concrete immediately after transfer, allowing only for elastic shortening of concrete. If the concrete undergoes
a further shortening due to creep and shrinkage while there is a relaxation of five per cent of steel stress,
estimate the final percentage loss of stress in the wires using the Indian Standard Code IS: 1343 regulations,
and the following data:
10. A concrete beam of 10 m span, 100 mm wide and 300 mm deep, is prestressed by three cables. The area
of each cable is 200 mm2 and the initial stress in the cable is 1200 N/mm2. Cable 1 is parabolic with an
eccentricity of 50 mm above the centroid at the supports and 50 mm below at the centre of span. Cable 2 is
also parabolic with zero eccentricity at supports and 50 mm below the centroid at the centre of span. Cable 3
is straight with uniform eccentricity of 50 mm below the centroid. If the cables are tensioned from one end
only, estimate the percentage loss of stress in each cable due to friction. Assume m = 0.35 and k = 0.0015 per
m.
11. A concrete beam AB of span 12 m is post-tensioned by a cable which is concentric at supports A and B
and has an eccentricity of 200 mm in the mid-third span with a linear variation towards the supports. If the
cable is tensioned at the jacking-end A, what should be the jacking stress in the wires if the stress at B is to
be 1000 N/mm2. Assume the coefficient of friction between the cable duct and concrete as 0.55 and the
friction coefficient for the wave effect as 0.0015/m.

Slope of cable at A = 200 / 4000 = 0.05 ( eccentricity of 200 mm at mid third span , that means 12000/3 =
4000 )
 Deflection

The deflection of a flexural member is calculated to satisfy a limit state of serviceability. It is the general
practice, according to various national codes that structural concrete members should be designed to have
adequate stiffness to limit deflections which may adversely affect the strength and serviceability of the
structures at working load. Suitable control on deflectional is very essential for the following reasons.

i. Excessive sagging of principal structural members is not only unsightly, but at times also renders the
floor unsuitable for the intended use.
ii. Large deflections under dynamic affects and under the influence of variable loads may cause
discomfort to the users.
iii. Excessive deflections are likely to cause damage to finishes, partitions and associated structures

Factors influencing deflections

1. Imposed load and self-weight

2. Magnitude of prestressing force
3. Cable profile
4. Second moment of area of cross section
5. Modulus of elasticity of concrete
6. Shrinkage, creep, and relaxation of steel stress
7. Span of the members
8. Fixity conditions

In the pre-cracking stage, the whole cross section is effective and the deflection in this stage are computed
using the second moment of area of the gross concrete section. The computation of short term or instantaneous
deflections which occur immediately after transfer of prestress and on applications of loads is conveniently
done by using Mohr’s theorems.

In the post cracking stage, a prestressed concrete beam behaves in a manner like that of a reinforced concrete
beam and the computation of deflection in this stage is made by considering moment curvature relationships
which involves the section, properties of cracked beam.

In both cases, the effect of creep and shrinkage of concrete is to increase the long turn deflections under
sustained loads which is estimated by using empirical methods that involve the use of effective or long-term
modulus of elasticity or by multiplying short term deflection by suitable factors.

Effect of tendon profile on deflections

In most of the cases of prestressed beams, tendons are located with eccentricities towards the soffit of beams
to counteract the sagging BM due to transverse loads. Consequently, the concrete beams deflect upwards
(camber) on the application or transfer of prestress. Since the BM at every section is the product of prestressing
force and eccentricity the tendon profile itself will represent the shape of BMD. The method of computing
deflections of beams with different cable profile is outlined below.

• Straight Tendons

A beam with a straight tendon at a uniform eccentricity below the centroidal axis. If upward deflections are
considered as negative and

P = effective prestressing force

e = eccentricity

L = length of the beam

• Trapezoidal Tendons

A draped tendon with a trapezoidal profile is shown. Considering the BMD, the deflection at the centre
of the beam is obtained by taking the moment of area of the BMD over one-half of the span.

Thus,
• Parabolic Tendons (Central Anchors)
The deflection of a beam with parabolic tendons having an eccentricity e at the centre and zero at the
supports is given by,

• Parabolic Tendons (Eccentric Anchors)

Figure shows a beam with a parabolic tendon having an eccentricity e1 at the centre of span and e2 at
the support sections. The resultant deflection at the centre is obtained as the sum of the upward
deflection of a beam with a parabolic tendon of eccentricity (e1+ e2) at the centre and zero at the
supports and the downward deflection of a beam subjected to a uniform sagging bending moment of
intensity Pe2 throughout the length.
• Sloping Tendons (Eccentric Anchors)

• Parabolic and Straight Tendons

 Deflections due to Self-Weight and Imposed Loads

At the time of transfer of prestress, the beam hogs up due to the effect of prestressing. At this stage, the self-
weight of the beam induces downward deflections, which further increase due to the effect of imposed loads
on the beam.

If g = self-weight of the beam/m, q = imposed load/m (uniformly distributed), the downward deflection is
computed as,

Prediction of long-term deflections

The deformations of prestressed members change with time as a result of creep and shrinkage of concrete and
relaxation of stress in steel. The deflection of prestressed members can be computed relative to a given datum,
if the magnitude and longitudinal distribution of curvatures for the beam span are known for that instant based
on the load history which includes the prestressing forces and live loads.

The prestressed concrete member develops deformation under the influence of two usually opposing effecrs
which are the prestress and transverse loads. The net curvature ‘Φt’ at a section at any given stage is obtained

Φt = Φmt + Φpt

Φmt change of curvature caused by transverse loads

Φpt change of curvature caused by prestress under the section of sustained transverse load
The compressive stress distribution in the concrete change with time. However, in practical cases, the change
of stress being small, it may be assumed that the concrete creeps under constant stress. The creep strain due
to transverse loads is directly computed as a function of the creep coefficient so that the change of curvature
can be estimated by expression

Φmt = (1+ Φ) Φi

Φ is the creep coefficient and Φi intial curvature immediately after the application of transverse loads

The change of curvature due to the sustained prestress Φpt depends upon the cumulative effects of creep and
shrinkage of concrete and relaxation of stress in steel. Several methods have been proposed to evaluate the
curvature under simplified assumptions

An approximate procedure is suggested by ‘Lin’ for computing long time deflections. In this method, the
initial deflection due to prestress and transverse loads is modified to account for the loss of prestress which
tends to increase the deflection. The principle to reduced modulus involving the creep coefficient is used to
amplify the initial deflections. According to this method, the final long time deflection is expressed as

Where 𝛼𝑖𝑖 is the initial deflection due to transverse loads and 𝛼𝑖𝑝 is the initial deflection due to prestressing
force, Pt = prestress at transfer, Pi = initial prestress and Φ is the creep coefficient

1. A concrete beam with a rectangular section 300 mm wide and 500 mm deep is prestressed by 2 post
tensioned cables of area 650 mm2 each. Initially stressed to 1650N/mm2. The cables are located at a constant
eccentricity of 100 mm throughout the length of beam having a span of 10.5 m. The modulus of elasticity of
steel and concrete is 210 and 38 kN/mm2. a) Neglecting all losses, the deflection at the centre of span when it
is supporting its own weight. b) Allowing for 20% loss in prestress, find the final deflection at the centre of
span when it carries an imposed load of 20kN/m. Density of concrete = 24 kN/m3

Self-weight of beam = w = 0.3 × 0.5 ×1 × 24 = 3.6 kN/m

𝑏𝐷 3 300 ×5003
I= = = 3.125 × 10 9 mm 4
12 12

As = 2 × 650 = 1300 mm2 fsi = 1650 N/mm2 , e = 100 mm , l = 10.5 m, Es = 210 kN/mm2 Ec = 38 kN/mm2

Po = As fsi = 1300 × 1650 = 2145 kN

5 5
Downward deflection due to self-weight = 𝑤𝑙 4 = 384 ×38 × 3.6 × 105004
384 𝐸𝑐 𝐼 × 103 × 3.125 × 109

= 4.798 mm

𝑃 𝑒 𝑙2 2145 000 ×100× 105002

Upward deflection due to prestressing force = = = 24.89 mm
8𝐸𝑐 𝐼 8×38 × 103 × 3.125 × 109
Net upward deflection of the beam when it supports its own weight = 24. 89 – 4.798 = 20.092 mm

5 5
Downward deflection due to live load = 𝑞𝑙 4 = × 20 × 105004
384 𝐸𝑐 𝐼 384 ×38 × 103 × 3.125 × 109

= 26.65 mm

Upward deflection of the beam due to prestress after loss = 80 % × −29. 56 = - 23.64 mm

Final downward deflection of the beam due to self-weight +prestress +live load = 4+4.79 – 23.64 + 26.65 =
+7.8 mm

3
2. A concrete beam with a cross sectional area of 45 × 10 mm2 and a radius of gyration of 86.6 mm is
prestressed by a parabolic cable carrying an effective stress of 1250N/mm 2 . The span of the beam is 9.5 m.
The cable composed of 7 wires of 7 mm diameter has an eccentricity of 60 mm at the centre and zero at
supports. Neglecting all losses find the central deflection of beam of the beams as follows a) self-weight +
prestress and b) self-weight +prestress +live load of 4kN/m. Assume the grade of concrete as M$% and density
of concrete is 24kN/m3

Self-weight of beam = w = 45 × 10 3 × 1 × 24 = 1.08 kN/m

As = 7 × π × 72 /4= 269.39 mm2 fsi = 1250 N/mm2 , e = 60 mm , r = 86.6 mm, l = 10.5 m, Es = 210 kN/mm2
Ec = 5000 × √ 45 = 33541.02 N/mm2, I = Ac r2 = 45 × 103 × 86.62 = 337.48 × 10 6 mm 4

Po = As fsi = 1250 × 269.39 = 336.73 kN

5 5
Downward deflection due to self-weight = 𝑤𝑑 𝑙 4 = 384 ×33541.02×337.4802×106 × 1.08 × 95004
384 𝐸𝑐 𝐼

= 10.12 mm

5 𝑃 𝑒 𝑙2 5 × 336.7 × 60 ×95002
Upward deflection due to prestressing force = = 48×33541.02×337.4802×106 = 16.78 mm
48𝐸𝑐 𝐼

5 5
Downward deflection due to live load = 384 𝐸𝑐 𝐼 𝑤𝑙 𝑙 4 = 384 ×33541.02×337.4802×106 × 4 × 95004

= 37.48 mm

Net deflection of the beam (self-weight + prestress) = 1.12 – 16.78 = -6.66 mm

Net deflection of the beam (self-weight + prestress + live load ) = 1.12 – 16.78 + 37.48 = 30.82 mm

3. A concrete beam with a rectangular section 150 mm wide and 350 mm deep issimply supports over a span
of 8m and is prestressed by symmetric parabolic cable at a distance of 100 mm from the bottom of beam at
mid span and 130mm from top of beam at support sections. The force in the cable is 350kN and the grade of
concrete is M60. a) Calculate the deflection at the centre of span when it is supporting its own weight. b)
Calculate the concentrated load which must be applied at the centre of span to restore it to the level of supports.

Self-weight of beam = g = .0.15 ×0.350× 1 × 24 = 1.26 kN/m

 𝑏𝐷 3
I= = 535.9 × 10 6 mm 4
12

P = 350kN , e1 = 175 – 100 = 75 mm , e2 = 175 – 150 = 25 mm, l = 10.5 m,

Ec = 5000 × √ 60 = 38729 N/mm2

5 5
Downward deflection due to self-weight = 𝑔𝑙 4 = 384 ×38729×535.9×106 × 1.26 × 80004
384 𝐸𝑐 𝐼

= 3.24 mm

Upward deflection due to prestressing force =

350000 ×80002 ×( −5 ×75+25)

= = -7.87 mm
48×38729×535.9×106

a) Deflection due to prestress + self-weight = -7.87 +3.24 = - 4.63 mm

b) If Q is the concentrated load required at centre of span

𝑄 𝑙3
= 4.83, Q = 9.39kN
48𝐸𝑐 𝐼

4.

2 3 6 4
A = 120 x 300 = 36000 mm , Moment of Inertia, I = 120 x 300 / 12 = 270 x 10 mm
Span L = 6 m = 6000 mm
3
P = 200kN = 200 x 10 N
e = 50 mm
3 2
Modulus of elasticity of concrete, Ec = 38 x 10 N / mm

Self weight of beam/dead load, wd = 25 x 0.12 x 0.3 = 0.9 kN/m = 0.9 N/mm
𝑃 ×𝑒 × 𝐿2
Upward Deflection due to prestress = δp = - = - 4.38 mm
8 × 𝐸𝐶 × 𝐼

5
Downward Deflection due to self weight/dead load = δd = + 384×𝐸𝐶 ×𝐼
𝑤𝑑 𝐿4 = + 1.48 mm

i) Deflection due to prestress + self weight = δp + δd = -4.38 + 1.48 = - 2.9 mm ………….(1)

ii) Magnitude of UDL Live load which will nullify deflection due to prestress and self weight
 5
Deflection due to live load( UDL) = 384 × 𝐸 𝑤𝑙 𝐿4 ………………………………………..(2)
𝐶 ×𝐼

5
Equate (1) = (2) , -2.9 = 𝑤𝑙 𝐿4
384 × 𝐸𝐶 × 𝐼

And find 𝑤𝑙 = 1.76 kN/m

5.

2 3 6 4
A = 120 x 300 = 36000 mm , Moment of Inertia, I = 120 x 300 / 12 = 270 x 10 mm
Span L = 6 m = 6000 mm
3
P = 180kN = 180 x 10 N
e = 50 mm
3 2
Modulus of elasticity of concrete, Ec = 38 x 10 N / mm

Self weight of beam/dead load, wd = 24 x 0.12 x 0.3 = 0.864 kN/m = 0.864 N/mm

𝑃 ×𝑒 × 𝐿2
Upward Deflection due to initial prestress = δpi = - = - 3.94 mm
8 × 𝐸𝐶 × 𝐼

5
Downward Deflection due to self weight/dead load = δd = + 𝑤𝑑 𝐿4 = + 1.42 mm
384×𝐸𝐶 ×𝐼

i) Deflection due to prestress + self weight = δp + δd = -3.94 + 1.42 = - 2.52 mm

Permissible upward deflection according to IS: 1343 = span/ 300 = 6000/300 = 20 mm.
Here deflection is -2.52 mm < 20 mm . Hence it is safe.

ii) Final deflection under prestress +self weight +imposed load or live load
3 2 6 4
𝑤𝑙 = 4 kN/m (given), Ec = 38 x 10 N / mm , I = 270 x 10 mm , L = 6000 mm
5
Deflection due to live load( UDL), δl = + 384 × 𝐸 𝑤𝑙 𝐿4 = + 6.57 mm
𝐶 ×𝐼

Upward deflection of the beam due to prestress after loss of 20 % ( only 80 % of Prestressing force is
effective) = 80 % × 𝛿𝑝 = 0.8 x - 3.94 = -3.152 mm

Final deflection under prestress +self weight + live load after the loss = -3.152 + 1.42 + 6.57 = 4.838 mm
iii) Long term deflection- ( creep effects) – Use Formula by Lin

𝑷𝒕
𝜶𝒇 = ቂ+𝜶𝒊𝒍 − 𝜶𝒊𝒑 × ቃ×(𝟏+ 𝜱)
𝑷𝒊

initial deflection due to transverse loads(dead + live loads) 𝜶𝒊𝒍 = δd + δl = +1.42 +6.57 = 7.99 mm

initial deflection due to prestressing force 𝜶𝒊𝒑 = δpi = -3.94 mm

𝑷𝒕
or Loss ratio = 0.8 or 80 % , Creep coefficient , 𝜱 = 1.8 , Then 𝑳𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 , 𝜶𝒇 =
𝑷𝒊

[ +7.99 – 3.94 x 0.8 ] x ( 1 + 1.8 ) = 13.54 mm

Check it with IS: 1343 code limit of span/ 250 = 6000/250 = 24 mm . It is safe against deflection since
13.54 mm < 24 mm
 Calculation of crack width

The crack width is calculated for the cracks due to bending which occur at the bottom or top surfaces of a
flexural members. The flexural cracks start from the tension face and propagate perpendicular to the axis
of the member. If these cracks are wide, it leads to corrosion of reinforcing bars in the tension zone close
to surface in addition to prestressed tendons

The crack width of a flexural crack depends on

• Amount of prestress
• Tensile stress in longitudinal bars
• Thickness of concrete cover
• Diameter and spacing of longitudinal bars
• Depth of member and location of neutral axis
• Bond strength
• Tensile strength of concrete
 Requirements of Various Codes of Practise

It is the general practise in most of the codes to safeguard against excessive deflections under serviceability
limit states, either indirectly by prescribing a minimum span to depth ratio for the member, or directly by
specifying a maximum permissible deflection expressed as a fraction of the span.

The recommendations of the Indian Standard Code (IS: 1343)2012 with regard to the limit state of
deflection are as follows: CL 20.3.1 Page 29 IS 1343 2012

1. The final deflection, due to all loads including the effects of temperature, creep and shrinkage should
normally not exceed span/250.
2. The deflection, including the effects of temperature, creep and shrinkage occurring after the erection
of partitions and the application of finishes, should not normally exceed span/350 or 20 mm,
whichever is less.
3. If finishes are to be applied to the prestressed concrete members, the total upward deflection should
not exceed span/300, unless uniformity of camber between adjacent units can be ensured.
4. The British code (BS EN: 1992 –1–1) specifies a maximum deflection limit of span/250, beyond
which the sag in a member will usually become noticeable.
5. To prevent damage to non-structural elements, the code recommends that the deflection after the
installation of finishes and partitions should not exceed the following values:
• Span/500 or 20 mm, whichever is less, for brittle materials.
• Span/350 or 20 mm, whichever is less, for non-brittle partitions or finishes.