The post-tensioning technique involves installing and tensioning tendons in a concrete element, thereby applying compressive stress to the material. This compensates for the tensile stress that the concrete may undergo as a result of external loads and reduces or eliminates deformation and cracking.
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ApplicationsBridges
Buildings
Water infrastructures
Energy infrastructures
A revolution in the art of construction
Post-tensioning has revolutionised the design and construction of concrete structures, allowing thinner concrete sections, longer spans and more durable concrete structures. It also paved the way for the development of new construction methods, making bridge construction simpler, faster and more cost-effective.
The technique was patented by Eugène Freyssinet in 1928. It was developed on thousands of structures across the world by the STUP (Société Technique pour l’Utilisation de la Précontrainte), the company created by Eugène Freyssinet in 1943 – that became Freyssinet in 1976. Post-tensioning is now universally known and widely used.
The use of post-tensioning opens up a wide range of geometric and architectural possibilities. In particular, it allows complex curves, variable elevations and long free spans without support.
Post-tensioning significantly reduces the amount of concrete and steel required for the structure and the foundation work. It allows for the rapid assembly of precast elements using industrialized methods, allowing the site to progress quickly and efficiently.
A post-tensioning solution reduces the need for joints, which in turn reduces joint maintenance. For tanks, silos and reservoirs, post-tensioning results in concrete that is virtually free of cracks and therefore less prone to corrosion problems.
Post-tensioned structures require less construction materials – such as steel reinforcement and concrete – and therefore generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions for their production and transportation. The carbon savings are usually between 20 and 30%.
A solution optimised for every application
Design & build packages
Consulting and design services
Post-tensioning systems are designed and supplied by companies specialized in this field. The choice of the right system and its components, as well as the layout of the PT by structural engineers, are essential in the process and require sound engineering consideration.
In-house manufacturing and supply
In order to ensure high quality products to our customers worldwide, prestressing anchors are manufactured by our industrial division FPC (Freyssinet Products Company), which is ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environment) and ISO 45001 (safety & health) certified.
Freyssinet is the only post-tensioning specialist with this industrial competence, which is essential for quality control and product development.
Installation
Freyssinet carries out installation using trained personnel, specific equipment and well-proven procedures.
For specific conditions such as a nuclear or cryogenic environment, we will provide specific grout formulations and testing campaigns.
Inspection and maintenance
We offer targeted services to understand the condition of our client’s existing structures and propose innovative repair and maintenance to ensure their assets are fit for purpose now and in the future.
• Electrically isolated tendons to allow monitoring of the encapsulation
• Environmentally friendly geopolymer grouts with lower water content
• Load monitoring for unbonded post-tensioning
• Monitoring of specific structures such as nuclear power plants
Find out more in our case studies
Arsenal sports center connected post-tensioning
Library of Birmingham, PT slabs rather than steel frame
TMCLK Link in Hong-Kong: balanced cantilever erection
New coastal highway prestressed road in La Reunion
Our post-tensioning systems
Post-tensioning strand systems for buildings
Post-tensioning strand systems for civil engineering structures
Post-tensioning bar systems
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