Simplified Equivalent Loads of Prestressing

Abstract

This paper gives one simple set of equations for the determination of the equivalent loads of prestressing, which not only apply to all possible cases but are also easier to use than existing formulas. They can be used for interior spans, exterior spans, simple spans, and cantilever spans, as well as many other cases. These equations allow for the direct analysis of the effects of prestressing in a plane frame computer program. Since virtually all practicing structural engineers have access to a plane frame program and only need some general way of applying prestressing into the program, they will find these equations extremely useful. An example problem is included. These equations also facilitate the determination of both the vertical component of prestress used in shear calculations and friction losses due to the curvature of the tendon.