Post-tensioning cables help strengthen concrete so they can hold up to higher amounts of service load.
We’ve mentioned a few times before that ground penetrating radar is a good method for locating post-tensioning cables in concrete. When cutting or core drilling, you definitely want to know where the cables are located. But why are there all these cables in the concrete anyway? What do they do, and what will happen if one is damaged from cutting or drilling? Here are the basics of post-tensioning cables so you’ll know exactly why it’s important to scan for them before construction.
What are They?
Post-tensioning cables are steel cables that run through plastics sleeves inside concrete that hasn’t been placed yet. At the end of each cable is an anchor used to apply stress to the cables. The cables can be single-strand or braided, depending on the structure they are being used in. Once post-tensioning cables have done their job, they are cut off at the anchor and the sleeve is filled with grout to protect from corrosion.
What Do They Do?
This is a method of prestressing, which is performed in order to strengthen concrete. By applying tension to the cables within the concrete it compresses the concrete, resulting in a material better equipped to deal with service loads.
Choose Concrete Visions for Your GPR Needs
Concrete Visions has over 12 years of experience and expertise in concrete scanning and we know how to detect any problems lurking beneath the surface. We use ground penetrating radar accurately and expertly and are familiar in many other methods that can be used when appropriate like concrete x-ray and electromagnetic conductivity. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, give us a call at (410) 766-2210 or visit us online. For more articles and tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.