Part E Prestressing Module E 1 Introduction

Part E
Prestressing Module

E 1 Introduction
E 1.1 Overview
With the Prestressing Module (PT) of CEDRUS−5 the effect of prestressing can be treated
either as an external load or as a resistance within the context of design and dimension-
ing. The program is intended to aid the search for a suitable prestressing arrangement
and provides all calculated data for further planning and design. Thanks to its data ex-
change capabilities CEDRUS−5 allows the export of diagrams, tables and graphs into
other applications for post−processing, e.g. CAD systems, spreadsheets and word pro-
cessors.

S4
S3
S2
S1

Fig. A−1 Diagrammatic illustration of prestressing

E 1.2 Tendons and Supports

The term ’tendon’ is used in the following as a generic term for every kind of prestress
element (cables with bundles of wires, strands, bars). In contrast to most other graphical
3D objects the geometrical input of the prestressing is done separately for the horizontal
and vertical directions.
With the aid of the Graphics Editor the horizontal direction is drawn in the plan view
as a straight line or as a polygon. In the case of curved tendons the individual polygon
points serve as discrete points of the continuously curved tendon. By moving these dis-
crete points, the introduction of intermediate points or changes in the tangents, the
changing shape of the curve can be influenced by the user.
The vertical variation of the tendon is also defined in the plan view along the straight
line with height attributes at so−called
supports". Just like on the construction site the
supports serve to support the tendons at the points of intersection, whereby the follow-
ing attributes can be assigned:
S z−coordinate (different input possibilities regarding slab geometry)
S slope of tendon
S rules regarding minimum radius and inflexion points

E 1.3 Input Procedure

Normally one attempts to compensate the permanent loads in the slab by means of the
deviation forces from the prestressing. In the case of a vertically directed tendon, with

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Part E Prestressing Module E 1 Introduction

second order parabolas, in the ideal case without friction losses straight constant devi-
ation forces are produced.

With the standard cases described in E 2 many useful tendon profiles can be described
in a simple manner.

The basic steps of the interactive input comprise:

S Input of the tendons in plan view
S Input of the supports for fixing the vertical profile
S Definition of the stressing program
S Assignment of the tendon groups to CEDRUS load cases

The choice of the arrangement of the tendons is governed both by statical and construc-
tional considerations. Basically, the prestressed elements can be placed in one or two
directions. Regarding the subdivision into field and column strips (sometimes referred
to as ’support strips’) running along the grid over columns there are different recommen-
dations (e.g. 50 % of the tendons in the field and the other 50 % in these concentrated
column strips). In addition to compensating the dead load, with regard to punching
shear behaviour as well one wants to profit from as many of the favourable effects of
prestressing as possible.

To obtain an initial estimate of the required prestressing force for the input of the ten-
dons a small program is available, with which a
pre−dimensioning" sheet with all char-
acteristic values can be printed out.

For a better overview of the input several tendons can be grouped together. Each group
corresponds to a layer in the Graphics Editor. One can switch between the individual
groups.
Inactive" tendon groups can, if necessary, be graphically superimposed. A
standard subdivision could look like the following:
S Group 1: Tendons in x−direction, supports in y−direction
S Group 2: Tendons in y−direction, supports in x−direction

For further treatment in CEDRUS the tendon groups are put together to form one or
more CEDRUS load cases.

For control purposes, at any time during the input the following diagrams can be in-
cluded:
S 3D view with arbitrarily selectable viewing direction
S Longitudinal view of a selected tendon
S Presentation of the force variation along the tendon itself based on the selected stres-
sing procedure
S Presentation of the deviation forces in the section
S Presentation of the deviation forces in plan or in 3D view

The amount of graphical information produced can be controlled using various options
(presentation in the prestressing direction, tendon attributes etc.) and the diagrams can
also be output on a printer or plotter to any desired scale.

General stressing procedures can be defined by specifying the anchorage forces or the
anchorage movements, whereby arbitrary stressing (tensioning, overtensioning) and re-
lease of tension (wedge draw−in during lock off, anchorage slip) is possible. The vari-
ation of the prestressing force calculated by the program takes into account all friction
losses.

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 Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

E 2 Basics

E 2.1 Tendon Geometry

As already mentioned in the introduction, the tendon profile is first drawn in plan view
with the Graphics Editor and then brought into the desired vertical position using the
supports. It is also possible to assign height attributes directly at every input point. For
all internal calculations (e.g. of friction losses) the three dimensional profile of the ten-
don is used.

E 2.1.1 Geometrical description in the plan view

y Plan view
If the tendon was defined in plan by just two input points, a straight line profile is as-
sumed. Curved tendons are produced by inputting several points, whereby the curved
variation between two points is assumed to be a polynomial of third order. The slope
of the tangent at a particular point is given by the slope of the two neighbouring
stretches (i.e. the bisector). This default value can be overridden by the user.
x
straight and curved ten-
dons

E 2.1.2 Geometrical description in the side view

z Section View The definition of the tendon’s vertical profile is given by the supports or by specifying
z’ height attributes at the tendon input points. The so−called folded view in the vertical
section, which is permitted by the program, corresponds, as may be seen in the follow-
ing pages of the manual, to the development of a curved surface in vertical section
z
x’ through the respective tendon. Therefore, the abscissa designated by x’ represents the
projection of the tendon onto the plan view.
y Plan View
In view of the deviation forces one often wants to work with special generating el-
x’ ements (e.g.
straight line−parabola",
parabola−parabola"). By means of the following
tendon example it is shown how in most cases met with in practice the support attributes can
be controlled.
sup- sup-
port port x A tendon can be given the attribute
Standard elements" or
Polynomial segment
of 3rd order". Normally one works with standard elements (described below). The
program tries in this case to describe the profile of the tendons between the support
points with (quadratic) parabolic sections and straight lines, based on the attributes
specified at the supports or at the intermediate points. The advantage of (quadratic) par-
abolas lies in the practically constant deviation forces:

f
8f P P
u [ P
2
l
u

with: l

u = deviation force per unit length

P = prestressing force, f = parabolic height (sag), l = span

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

Support and point attributes

The following support and point attributes can be

input:

Fixed point:
Height z:
Explicit height information or with reference to the
boundary of the slab (highest and lowest points). The
z−axis points upwards.

Slope z’:
The slope input is optional. For the highest or lowest
point input z’=0, otherwise (without explicit informa-
tion) z’ is determined by the program: z’=slope of the
bisecting angle.

Minimum radius conditions:

free : no special condition
parabola :condition is that tendon at support or
at the indicated polygon point
[Link] should exhibit the minimum radius
[Link] (prerequisite:
standard elements").
circ. arc : instruction that here a circular arc
with the minimum radius and half
chord length l k should be introduced.

Point of inflexion:
This attribute is used to fix the position of the point
of inflexion of two adjoining parabolas (left and right
curve).

Examples of generated tendon profiles

In the following some standard cases are put together to show how they are created
by the program on the basis of the attributes in the section (support and polygon points,
respectively). As mentioned already in the introduction, the tendon profile is first drawn
in the plan view using the Graphics Editor and then brought into the desired vertical
position by inputting the supports. It is also possible to assign height attributes directly
to the support points. In all internal calculations (e.g. of friction losses) the 3 D profile
of the tendon is used.

It could happen that some conditions in a certain section are in conflict with each other
or that the input values do not allow reasonable results to be obtained (e.g. chord
lengths that are too long for circular arcs). In this case the program may have to ignore
some conditions to still be able to draw a curve. All input height attributes (height z),
however, are always used! In the vicinity of a support one should not assign height at-
tributes to the polygon points, to avoid defining them twice. At the ends of the tendons
a height input is always required by the program otherwise the start and end points are
specified in a standard way at the middle axis of the slab (reason: avoiding tolerance
problems with the calculation of the points of intersection between the tendons and
the supports). The required user input is demonstrated by means of the two span beam
shown in Fig. A−2 .

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

Polygon points: A, E = start and end points (elevation z defined by default in

middle axis of slab, can be changed)
Supports: H,T = highest and lowest points
[Link] = extra condition: parabola with minimum radius at vertex
A T H, T E
[Link]

W W
G Par Par Par’ Par Par G
.
Calculated sections: G = straight line, Par = parabola, Par’ = parabola with minimum radius at the
vertex
Fig. A−2 User input for a prestressed two span beam

Further examples of single sections:

z z( z, z’ z
z’) (z’)

straight parabola (2nd order) straight polynomial of 3rd

line line order
deviation forces
u+ deviation forces
u+
To avoid the start and end sections being geo-
metrically redundant, at the anchorages only the If, in addition to the height at the start, the slope
height is specified. Then, optionally, at the end of is specified, the program uses at the end of the in-
the first section also the slope of the tangent z’ can itial straight line a polynomial of 3rd order.
be specified.

Fig. A−3 Geometry at start of tendon: straight line − parabola

Point of inflex- Points of inflex-

z ( z’) w
ion z ( z’) z ( z’) w
ion w z ( z’)

parabola (2nd parabola (2nd v str. line parabola ([Link].)

order) order)
deviation forces deviation forces
u− deviation forces u− deviation forces
u+ u+
If, in the section under consideration, a point of If there are two inflexion points, then the part in
inflexion is introduced between the highest and between is a straight line. Further inflexion points
lowest points, then this defines the subdivision of lying in between do not influence the shape of the
the two parabolic sections. If no extra information curve, i.e. only the two outermost inflexion points
is supplied the point of inflexion is placed in the are effective.
middle of the section.

Fig. A−4 Geometry in a middle section

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

z, [Link] z z, [Link] z,
[Link]

lp1
parabola (2. order) parabola (2. ord.)
parabola (2. order)
parabola (2. order) straight line
u−
u−
u+
u+
If a point of inflexion is moved closer to an end
point, the radius of the shorter parabola section is If, in the highest and lowest points, the condition
always smaller. In the extreme, just permissible, Pmin is input, a trapezium can be produced.
case the minimum radius at the vertex of the
curve is reached. This corresponds to the condi-
tion [Link] (parabola with minimum radius at
vertex), which can be input as a support attribute,
i.e. in this case the corresponding length of the
parabola lp1 is determined by the program.

Fig. A−5 Parabolas with minimum radius at vertex

z, [Link] z z, [Link] z

lk lk
circular arc
polynomial of 3rd circle Bezier curve (approximated by pol. of
order [Link])

u−
u− u+
u+
In contrast to the condition [Link] (see above) With a higher value of lk the second section is ap-
for which the minimum radius is just reached at proximated by several polynomials of 3rd order,
the vertex, with the condition [Link] a circular in order to produce as smooth a curve as possible
arc segment of half chord length lk is produced. (approximation with Bezier curve).
Purely geometrically therefore, at a given dis-
tance lk the steepest variation (max. shear forces
due to prestressing !!) is enforced. The program of
course takes no account of constructional con-
straints (stiffness of the duct, etc.). If the length lk
is too short, the point of inflexion of the connect-
ing 3rd order polynomial may not occur at the de-
sired position.

Fig. A−6 Circle instead of parabola at vertex

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

z, [Link] z, [Link] z, [Link] (lk=large) z

lk lk
lk lk
3rd order poly- circle str.l circle straight
nomial . line
circle
circle u−
u− u+
u+

Section with circular arc conditions at both ends. Circular arc section with very large value of lk . In
For smaller values of lk the transition is with a the extreme case the curve passes directly from
polynomial of 3rd order. one circle to another.

Fig. A−7 Further possibilities with circular arcs at vertex

z, z,
z’ z’

3rd order poly- 3rd order poly-

nomial nomial
u−
u+

For
Non−Standard" input of tendons the pro-

gram uses cubic polynomials. If the tangent slope
is not explicitly given, it is calculated from the two
adjoining polygon sides (bisector).

This input possibility is needed above all to re-

calculate existing objects, by inputting sequen-
tially the tendon heights measured from the plan.

Fig. A−8 Cubic polynomials

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 Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

E 2.2 Force Variation along Tendon and Friction Losses

P(x)

ÄÄÄÄÄÄ
Po The prestressing force along the tendon (after the initial stressing) is calculated using

ÄÄÄÄÄÄ
the following formula:

ÄÄÄÄÄÄ P(x) + P o·
e *m
(a)Da
x)

x P(x) : prestressing force at distance x from the stressing end
x : tendon length measured along curve
Po : prestressing force at stressing point
m : friction coefficient (typical values in range: 0.1 .. 0.3)
a : sum of all angular displacements (absolute values, radians) over distance x
Da : unintentional angular displacements (wobble) per unit length
values in range: 0.004 .. 0.01 /m

The associated contraction due to strain is proportional to the area under the curve P(x)
and amounts to (not taking into account the concrete compression):
L

DL + ŕ P(x)
EA
dx
0

Other prestressing operations (overtensioning, tension release etc) are possible after-
wards. The corresponding instructions have to be input via the tendon attributes.

. In contrast to CEDRUS−3 the formula for friction losses had to be adjusted to comply with
the standard that is usually applied today. The earlier CEDRUS−3 definition was:
P(x) + Po·
e *(ma)kx)
m : friction coefficient
a : sum of all deviation angles (in radians) at distance x
k : friction coefficient for unintentional angular displacements(/m)
(CEDRUS−3 default value: 0.0008 /m’)

E 2.3 Deviation Forces

As a result of prestressing the following loading elements are generated:

S Deviation forces
These continuously distributed forces are proportional to the curvatures of the ten-
don (determined in the vertical section) and to the prestressing force. By not taking
into account the friction losses the deviation forces would be constant for each sec-
tion (2nd order polygon) or linear (3rd order polygon)
S Friction forces
In sloping tendon sections, due to friction a small vertical component is produced,
which has to be considered for vertical equilibrium to be fulfilled.
S Anchorage forces
Due to the anchorage forces vertical point loads and correspondingly directed end
moments are introduced. To guarantee consistency such concentrated forces are
also introduced at abrupt changes in the slab thickness.

. The loading elements generated by the the Prestressing Module can be checked individually
in the Tabsheet ’Loads’ as with ’conventional’ loads.

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

E 2.4 Dimensioning of the Non−Prestressed Reinforcement

Basically prestressing can be treated in two different ways in the dimensioning of non−
prestressed reinforcing steel. Either as an external action on the structure, i.e. only on
the loading side, or as a dead load case with the tendons as part of the system. In the
second case the tendons are included in the determination of the resistance.

E 2.4.1 Prestressing as an external action

The prestressing load cases, as they are generated in the Prestressing Module, comprise
all actions of the tendons on the slab. Therefore, using the standard procedures of CE-
DRUS the reinforcing steel is dimensioned for ultimate load conditions (i.e. failure). It
should be noted that here the load factors for the prestressing case are specified accord-
ing to the codes. What cannot (without the possibilities described in this chapter) be
considered by CEDRUS as a program specifically for slabs, however, are the axial forces
in the slab.

E 2.4.2 Prestressing as self-equilibrating stress state

In many publications it is implied that prestressing should be considered as self-equili-

brating stress state (due to constrained deformations) and thus the tendons can be con-
sidered in the determination of the cross sectional resistances. While this is obvious in
the case of beams and there is no problem, in the case of slabs several difficulties have
to be overcome. How this is solved in the CEDRUS in dimensioning for prestressing,
is described below.

The dimensioning conditions

The actions on the slab consist of the components
Sd : Design limits of the sectional forces due to external actions

Sz : Sectional forces due to constrained deformations during prestressing

(constrained sectional forces)
The action effects are determined by means of a linear elastic analysis using the FE
method. The verification of the ultimate load bearing capacity is carried out at certain
points or over sections as follows:

S d ) z
S z v gR
R

z : Constraint factor:
The constrained moments represent a load−free stress state and can be taken
into account according to plasticity theory using an arbitrary factor z. Practi-
cal values of z are in the range 0 to 1.
R : Cross sectional resistance taking into account the tendons.
gR : Resistance factor.
Since the bending action at a point in a slab does not comprise one value only
( M x, M y, M xy), the above formula cannot be applied directly, but in a appropriate form
for the slab.
In CEDRUS the linearized yield conditions are:

M xB) v Rx)ńg R M xB) : Max
(M x) )ø M xy ø)

M xB* w Rx*ńg R M xB* : Min
(M x* *ø M xy ø)
M yB) v Ry)ńg R M yB) : Max
(M y) )ø M xy ø)
M yB* w Ry*ńg R M yB* : Min
(M y* *ø M xy ø)

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 Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

These conditions apply for two orthogonal reinforcement directions x,y. They cannot
be applied for non−orthogonal reinforcement.

Dimensioning as beams
The dimensioning in CEDRUS generally follows at particular points according to the
above yield conditions. While, in the determination of the necessary resistance, the rein-
Longitudi- forcing steel can be considered to be ’smeared’ (cm2/m), this is difficult for individual
nal−
section tendons. Thus the question arises of the width of influence of a tendon in determining
with width the resistance at a point. A point−wise consideration is hardly possible any more.

ÄÄÄ
The dimensioning program, therefore, uses for the prestressing a type of strip method.

ÄÄÄ
The user defines these strips in the form of longitudinal sections of a certain width
(beam sections of CEDRUS-5). Such a longitudinal section cuts a beam out of a slab,
which is considered as such for the dimensioning.
b
The action effects in such a beam are supplied by the beam sectional results of the basic
CEDRUS module, which summarizes the results of the FE calculation for the beam
width.

Cross sectional resistance

The determination of the cross sectional resistance is carried out according to the usual
design rules for bending and axial force (equilibrium, plane sections remain plane etc.).
The following information describes the default settings made by the program. With the
aid of the cross section program FAGUS−5 it is possible, to change these for special in-
vestigations.

By default a maximum concrete compression of −3.5 o/oo and on the tensile side a
maximum strain of the reinforcing steel of 5 o/oo are assumed. This limit also applies
to the additional strain of the prestressing steel, if this is also in the extreme fibre posi-
tion. Each tendon is treated with it correct position and initial strain, corresponding to
the geometrical input. The concrete is assumed to be cracked in tension.
åc
concrete com- As D å s1 Md
pression zone −
z
prestressing
force Z
As 5
ońoo å p + åp o ) Då p
+ å s2
couple and strain plane beam section forces
inner lever arm

Fig. A−9 Determination of cross sectional resistance

The initial strain å p o is calculated in every section according to the stressing programme
and the friction losses for each tendon individually. In a section at a distance x from
the start of the tendon this is:

P(x)
å po +
EA p
The effective contribution of the tendon then depends on whether it is bonded to the
surrounding concrete. For unbonded tendons Då p=0 and therefore the prestressing
force depends on the actual strain plane.

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

For the resistance of the beam all tendons within the beam are considered. Through
the choice of the beam width b, therefore, the user also determines the influence width
of the tendons.

For the cover of the reinforcing steel the values input for the zone attributes are used.
If the dimensioning cross section includes several zones of different thickness and con-
crete cover, the reinforcement used in dimensioning is placed in the extreme positions
(represented by a circle symbol in the diagram on the left). If necessary, compression
reinforcement is introduced.
b

Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3

Serviceablility limit state (SLS):

By default the design criterium is the stress limit for the mild reinforcement in tension.
The limiting stress (depending on bar diameter, spacing etc.) must be specified by
the user (see menu Settings>Analysis parameter>SLS).

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

Constraint moments

The constraint moments caused by stressing a group of tendons may be calculated as

follows:

ÄÄÄ
ÄÄÄÄÄ
ÄÄÄ
Variation M z

ÄÄÄÄÄ +

ÄÄÄÄÄ
b
Tendon 1.. i

M P + M P@e ) M z ³
Mz + M P * MP@e

MP : moment in beam due to prestressing as external action, i.e. calculated from

the load case deviation forces + anchorage forces.
M P@e : * P @ e (negative portion of sectional force in the tendon)
Mz : constraint moment (in CEDRUS this constraint moment can be changed
using a factor z )
This means that in zones where there are no tendons we have directly the constraint
moments. In the other zones the question of the influence width arises when introduc-
ing the portion of the sectional force in the tendon.

The user also solves this problem by choosing the beam width. All tendons lying within
the beam give their portion of the sectional force to the beam.

. Consistent with other actions the moment M p here too is formed and correctly superimposed
by M px "ø M pxy ø

Direction of the tendons and of the associated beam sections

The above dimensioning conditions apply to reinforcement in the orthogonal directions

x,y. In order to include tendons here, they must also lie in these directions. Small devi-
ations α are permitted, whereby the program multiplies the corresponding steel sections
by cos2α. Tendons with α > 10_ are not considered for the resistance. In the case of
buildings this condition is usually fulfilled, but rarely for skew bridge deck slabs.

The directions of the beam sections have to agree with the directions of the reinforce-
ment, and the complete dimensioning within a slab zone must always be carried out
in these directions. If, for example, in one place only two skew beam sections are con-
sidered, the yield conditions would not be fulfilled!

In zones with no tendons the normal dimensioning results of CEDRUS can be used.
These are also supplied in the
tendon strips", but there they are not relevant in the ten-
don direction.

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

E 2.4.3 Use of program

The calculation method described in the previous section is available only for beam sec-
tions for the reasons mentioned. In order to obtain the corresponding results, the input
described below is necessary:

Input in the tabsheet ’Calculation’

With the aid of the above dialogue, first of all a special specification has to be made.
For each calculation run up to 5 different dimensioning criteria may be decisive. In the
above case, e.g., first of all dimensioning is carried out for
failure" with the actions de-
fined under ’!Ultimate load state’ and then for ’!Serviceability state’. Both sets of results
are output in tabular form, as also the As limit values from both calculations.
Basically, all automatically or self−defined limit state specifications in dimensioning for
prestressing can be used, whereby the action ’!Prestress load’ in the design situations
should normally appear with the factor 1.00. Values which differ from this influence the
prestressing force and the initial strain in the prestressing steel, but not the tendon ge-
ometry. With a factor = 0.85, e.g., the prestressing losses due to creep and shrinkage
can be considered.

Constraint factor z:
In dimensioning for the ultimate state the constraints of the prestressing load cases are
taken into account using an arbitrary factor. This constraint factor z has to be input in
the corresponding field on the right hand side, where, as a rule, reasonable values are
in the range 0.00 to 1.00. It is recommended when calculating a floor slab to use the
same value everywhere!
Without bonding:
With the instruction ’Not bonded’ the property input as tendon attribute for this calcula-

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

tion run is deactivated (e.g. assessment of construction states, if the bonding is pro-
duced later).

Input in the Tabsheet ’Results’

The ’Prestressing Beam Section Dimensioning’ designated as ’As: Prestressing = Resis-
tance’ is available in the selection list shown on the left below. As Output Type for such
results only beam sections are available.

Axial force due to prestressing

For two reasons it may happen that the total prestressing force of all tendons in the beam
under consideration are transferred to the concrete cross section of the beam.
S In the case of column strips over the columns the axial force distributes itself more
or less uniformly at a certain distance from the anchorage over the whole slab. The
cut−out beam therefore only resists a part of it. In general, this part can be estimated
quite well.
S The slab supports themselves can also impede the transmission of the prestressing
force into the beam. This effect, if present, is difficult to estimate.
In the input field ’Portion of Axial Force: Factor’ the user can define the expected portion
of axial force in the beam using a factor. With the factor = 0.0 there is none, with 1.0
the whole of the axial force is transmitted to the beam.
. Since this factor is constant for the whole of the beam section it may be necessary to introduce
several sections one after another. But due to the uncertainty of the factor too much time ex-
penditure is not justifiable.

spreading out of axial

force"

ÎÎ
support

ÎÎ b = width of beam
section

Fig. A−10 Prestressed slab beam

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Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

unimpeded axial force

due to prestressing

zero or reduced
axial force in the
slab due to pres-
tressing

Fig. A−11 Plan view of floor slab

. Tip: It is not always simple to decide how large is the existing axial force in a certain region
due to prestressing. This, admittedly, places certain demands on the user. The advantage of
a pure slab calculation, however, is that thereby in the calculation assumptions one is forced
to adopt simple and clear models. In contrast to apparently more exact calculations (plane
stress states, shells) there is the danger of false interpretations (uncertain assumptions regard-
ing stiffness of supports etc.).

Remarks on the Results Tables

The additional reinforcing steel can be shown for each beam section both in a graphical
form and in a numerical form. In the following the relevant numerical outputs are
shown, whereby these, depending on the program version, can differ slightly from the
form presented.

Limit state specification

The table with the limit state specifications gives information on the loading, as well
as the verification type:

With the limit state ’Ultimate Load’ the calculations are carried out at the dimensioning
level. The material strengths are reduced according to the partial safety factors input
with the calculation settings.

In contrast, the dimensioning for serviceability is normally carried out at the working
stress level. The cross section is dimensioned for ’Admissible Stresses’. The correspon-
ding load factors can be adjusted, but in this case for the material behaviour no partial
safety factors are used.

LIMIT STATE SPECIFICATION ACCORDING TO SIA: !Ultimate (ULS)

Limit state: Ultimate (ULS)
Actions Design situations
−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−
Nr Name 1 2
0 !Dead load 1.3 0.8
1 !Imposed load 1.5 1.5
2 !Prestressing force 1 1

CEDRUS−5 E−15
Part E Prestressing Module E 2 Basics

As−Table

The As−Table for the additional reinforcing steel looks as follows:

Beam section: A (0.00,1.50 − 23.60,1.50) Beam width 3.00
Limit state specification: !Ultimate (ULS)
As−design ultimate state:B35/25, S500, γc=1.20, γs=1.20
Portion of axial force due to prestressing = 1.00
PT treated as resistance, constraint factor= 1.00
Distance Md_min Md_max Mp_min Mp_max −P*e As−top As+bottom
[m] [kNm] [kNm] [kNm] [kNm] [kNm] [mm2] [mm2]
−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−
0.00 1.23 3.32 0.05 0.05 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.48 41.50 111.91 −15.45 −15.45 18.06 0.00 2.00
0.97 81.28 219.17 −30.90 −30.90 36.05 0.00 5.00
[1] [1] [2] [2] [3] [4] [5]
Explanations:
[1] Limit state moments due to external loading (without prestressing):
[2] Limit state moments due to prestressing (anchorage and deviation forces)
[3] Moments due to −P*e (only for tendons in corresponding section)
[4] Dimensioned top reinforcing steel
[5] Dimensioned bottom reinforcing steel

The distance between two neighbouring dimensioning sections along the beam is
chosen by the program itself and cannot be changed.

Prestressing record
For a check on the tendons within each dimensioning section the following table is out-
put:
PT− and cross section record:
Dimensioning calculation performed with PT treated as resistance
Beam section: A (0.00,1.50 − 23.60,1.50)

Dist zs hmax Width co cu

Id Steel P Ap Eps zp e −P*e Angle Bonded
[kN] [cm2] [o/oo] [cm] [cm] [mkN] [rad]
−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−
0. −17.50 35.00 300.00 3.00 3.00
1.4 P1670 500.59 4.00 5.9594 −17.50 0. 0. 0.0 m.V.
1.5 P1670 125.15 1.00 5.9594 −17.50 0. 0. 0.0 m.V.
1.6 P1670 125.15 1.00 5.9594 −17.50 0. 0. 0.0 m.V.
1.8 P1670 125.15 1.00 5.9594 −17.50 0. 0. 0.0 m.V.
1.7 P1670 125.15 1.00 5.9594 −17.50 0. 0. 0.0 m.V.
Sum [Link] forces: −P 1001.17 [kN] −P*e 0. [mkN]

Legend:
Dist : Distance from start of section
zs : Coordinate of centroid of dimensioning cross section
hmax : Max. cross section height
width : Beam width of dimensioning cross section
co,cu : Concrete cover of reinforcing steel (top,bottom)
Id. : Tendon identification
steel : Name of PT steel
P : Tendon force
Ap : Total cross section of prestressing steel
Eps : Strain in prestressing steel due to chosen stressing procedure
zp : Position of tendon with respect to top of slab (+ve upwards)
e : Eccentricity of tendon relative to centroid of dimensioning c. s.

angle : Angle between axis of beam and tendon

(0 = Tendon is parallel to beam axis)

E−16 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

E 3 Examples

E 3.1 Flat Slabs

E 3.1.1 Description of problem

By means of the floor slab treated below the the individual input steps for the calculation
of a prestressed slab are discussed. This provides above all a basic introduction to the
method of working with the prestressing module. Actual numbers are introduced in the
second example in connection with the dimensioning of the reinforcing steel.
It is assumed that the user already knows how to use the Graphics Editor. In order to
become familiar with the input of geometrical objects it is recommended to work
through the introductory example in the basic module of CEDRUS−5. Further tips are
given in the Program’s Help System. The input of the prestressing was simplified in this
example, in order to make the description easier.

E 3.1.2 Tabsheet ’Structure’

Initially the slab outline, openings and columns are input, whereby all geometrical data
may be taken from the diagram given below..
2.40
7.20

thickness h=0.28
columns 0.4 x 0.4
19.20

7.20
2.40

2.90 8.40 8.40 8.40 8.40 2.90

39.40

Code Swisscode (SIA 2xx)

Materials: Concrete C35/45, Steel B500B, PT steel Y1860.
Prestressing: A p =100 mm2 (per strand),
f y + 0.9 @ f pk =1670 N/mm2 , f pk = 1860 N/mm2

E 3.1.3 Tabsheet ’Loads’

The following two load cases are considered

− Dead load (automatically generated by CEDRUS)
− Live load-general (additive) q = −5 kN/m2 (whole slab)
The later has to be input. laster, another load case with the action type ’Prestressing’ is
automatically added with the input of the prestressing cables.

CEDRUS−5 E−17
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

E 3.1.4 Tabsheet ’Prestressing’

Tablewith tendon data

Pre−dimensioning

Tendon

Checl
Group: Delete, New

Group: Settings

Grafiphics
k
Field of list for selecting ten-

port

Settings
Sup-

Table with geom.

don group

Loadcases
(check)
data
Prestressed flat slabs are probably not often designed by the majority of engineers. In
order to quickly obtain an overview, therefore, CEDRUS−5 provides a special program
for dimensioning the internal field of a floor slab.
First we select this dialogue field and input as spans for the internal field lx = 8.4 m and
ly = 7.2 m. At the moment we do not specify the slab thickness, i.e. it is determined by
the program itself. For the loading the value of q = −5 kN/m2 has to be input and for
the prestressing we select the steel ’Y1860’,as well as Ap=100 mm2.

With [Calculate] we obtain a ’proposal’ from the program itself. For different reasons
(punching shear, acoustics) we change the suggested slab thickness to h = 0.28 m and
we repeat the whole calculation. We now look more closely at the detailed preliminary
prestressing sheet (possibly print it out) and then decide upon the following prestres-
sing:

S Column strips: 12 strands (3 "bundles of 4") in the x and y directions

S Field strip: 7 x 1 strand in the x direction, 9 x 1 strand in the y direction

E−18 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

With respect to our introductory example the following arrangement should then
be obtained:

Input of tendons and supports

The tendon profile is first drawn with the Graphics Editor in plan view and then brought
to the desired vertical position by inputting supports.

In order to give a better overview of this procedure the tendon input is divided into the
following two groups:

Group 1: Tendons in the x−direction

Group 2: Tendons in the y−direction

We begin with Group 1:

CEDRUS−5 E−19
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

Now the first x−tendon is input over the bottom row of columns with the following at-
tributes (due to the long tendon lengths stressing is carried out from both sides):

With the button [Create] the polygon input is started with the Graphics Editors and the
discrete points of the tendon curve are input geometrically. In our case the starting point
is at the left boundary of the slab at (0.0 / 0.5). For the input of the second point we
press the x−key, whereby the mouse can only be moved in a horizontal direction, and
we click on the right slab boundary. We complete the polygon input by pressing the
key <Q>.

Now we duplicate the element just input by first selecting it and then using the function
’Duplicate’ from the Context menu with the following parameters:

Distances: 2*0.85 2*0.2 etc.

During the input of the above row, provided the button ’Preview’ in the dialogue win-
dow is selected, the elements to be created are continuously shown (’dimmed’), i.e. im-
mediate checking is possible at all times.

After confirming with [OK] all tendons in the x−direction will be generated.

E−20 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

In the region of the column strips we still have to change the number of strands. For
every column strip we select the three tendons and choose ’Attributes’ from the Context
menu. We change the field ,No. of strands’ to the new value ’4’ and confirm with ’Apply’.

Now follows the input of the supports. We assume a distance to boundary of 30 mm

and that the external diameter of the tendon is 20 mm. The distance from the slab
boundary to the line of action of the force in the steel is thus 40 mm for the tendons
in the x−direction. In our example, due to the intersection at the middle of the support,
this value is increased to 60 mm for the tendons in the y−direction.

In an actual application, the geometrical relationships over the supports have to be

planned exactly, whereby in the manufacturers’ product documentation of prestressing
systems one can find much information regarding this question. For CEDRUS as a cal-
culation program only the centre line of the steel force is of interest. Possible geometri-
cal conflicts,however, may be detected by means of the graphical output (see Checks).
The dialogue window is filled with the following values:

With the button [Create] we can place the supports geometrically. The first point is at
(2.9/0) and the last point in the y-direction at the top boundary of the slab.

The remaining supports are generated again with the function ’Duplicate’ from the Con-
text menu with the following values.
Direction vector: dx = 0.0 dy:=1.0
Distances: 8*4.20 (half span length)

Now we have to change the attributes of all tendon lowest points. We select all supports
in the middle of the field and assign them the attribute ’Lowest Point’ with distance to
boundary of 40 mm, as well as in the section ’Minimum Radius’ the value ’free’.

Checks
Now we want to check individual tendons by selecting a particular tendon and then
click on the button shown on the left.
In a new dialogue window we should see something like the following diagram

CEDRUS−5 E−21
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

In the above A4 page layout the variation of steel stress, the tendon geometry and the
deviations forces transmitted by the tendon to the slab are presented. In our case among
other things we should check that the negative deviation forces concentrated in the area
of the supports (=highest point) are transmitted to the slab. At the highest point we have
specified the minimum radius condition and naturally we want the inflexion point with
regard to the punching shear check to be near to the supports.

With the print entry symbol in the upper left corner of this diagram, if required, can be
entered in the print list.
Within the input process typical tendons should always be considered and checked in
each direction with this function. The dialogue window should never be closed to con-
sider a new tendon, but left in the ’background’ any tendon can be selected and the
graphics adjusts itself automatically.

E−22 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

The second tendon group is created in the same way with the following steps:
S Define the new Group (2)
S Input tendon in y−direction:
On opening the attributes dialogue reset the input field ’No. of Strands’ to 1. The first
tendon starts with (1.10/0.0) and ends at the top slab boundary.
S One could once again duplicate all tendons with the following instruction:
Direction vector: dx = 1.0 dy = 0.0
Distances:
2*0.8 2*0.2 10*0.8 2*0.2 10*0.8 2*0.2 10*0.8 2*0.2 10*0.8 2*0.2
2*0.8

The input of the above line, however, is somewhat lengthy and thus prone to error.
As an alternative one could by duplicating just create the first field (Distances: 2*0.8
2*0.2 10*0.8 1*0.2 ) and then create the rest of the tendons by mirroring twice
about the corresponding column axes.
S Increase number of strands for the column strips:
Key words: select relevant tendons, increase attribute ’No. of Strands’ once more to
4, [Apply]
S Input supports over the first row of columns (point on left boundary 0/2.4) with fol-
lowing attributes:
Height: ’Highest Point’ with distance to boundary of 60 mm
Minimum radius: ’Parabola’
S Duplicate supports
’Distances’: 4*3.60 (half span length)
S Change support attributes in middle of field using following attributes:
Height: ’Lowest Point’ with distance to boundary of 60 mm
Minimum radius: ’free’

After checking the tendon visually with the input is completed.

Now we leave this window and call the function shown on the left.
By this means the deviation and anchorage forces for all prestressing load cases are
formed and at the same time a record file is written. If the program encounters incor-
rectly input tendons (intersection with slab boundary, violation of minimum radius
condition etc.) a corresponding error message is written.

From the information given at the end of the table one can see how large is the sum
of the deviation forces. A comparison with the dead load gives:

g (dead load) = 25 kN/m3 x 39.40 m x 19.20 m x 0.28 m = 5295 kN

u+ (sum of all positive deviation forces) [ 9524 kN

For each internal field, of the total of 40 strands 24 of them are positioned in the column
strips. Only these strands transmit the deviation forces directly to the columns. The ratio
u/g therefore can be estimated as follows:
u/g = (24/40) x 9524 /5295 [ 1.08
If we compare this value with the preliminary dimensioning: Instead of the suggested
47 strands we have only retained 40 of them. In addition, the distances to the boundary
for the tendons running in the y−direction are greater than those assumed in the pre−di-
mensioning.
The ratio u/g can also be calculated from a comparison of the two bending deflection
diagrams for the load cases dead weight and prestressing.
Since prestressing corresponds to a self−weight stress state, the prestressing load case
considered by itself has to be fulfil equilibrium, i.e. the sum of all vertical loads must

CEDRUS−5 E−23
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

(up to a certain tolerance value) be equal to zero. This can be checked quite easily in
the tabsheet ’Loads’ in the tabular output in the last line of the table. The prestressing
layout should also be checked once again graphically: Positive and negative deviation
forces are presented in different colours and thus it can be seen immediately whether,
e.g., the negative deviation forces are actually transmitted to the columns.

Tendons input twice, which lie directly on top of each other, are shown by the program
in the table of prestressing data with a warning sign. If the number of strands is shown
graphically (Context menu ’Attributes’, ’Options’), we can detect such (probably unde-
sired input) immediately, since the corresponding graphical symbols are displayed for
each tendon at a different place.

Fig. A−12 Tendon with single stand Two tendons each with single strand

E 3.1.5 Tabsheet ’Calculation’

In our example we are interested above all in the additionally required reinforcing steel,
which we want to determine with the aid of a beam section dimensioning. To ensure
that the corresponding results are available, first of all we have to make the correspon-
ding specification in the tabsheet ’Calculation’ . By default the program creates limit state
specifications for ’!Ultimate Load’ and ’!Serviceability’.

We produce now a new specification, stored by the program under the term ’Prestres-
sing=Resistance’, by selecting the function on the left and inputting the values shown
in the dialogue below:

For the calculation of the action effect the limit state specification ’!Ultimate Load’ the
following factors are used:

E−24 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

LIMIT STATE SPECIFICATION code: SIA 162

ACTION: !dead load
permanent L1: [1.00] Loadcase 1
ACTION: !imposed load
plus where decisive L2: [1.00] Loadcase 2
ACTION: !Prestressing
permanent L3: [1.00] Loadcase 3
LIMIT STATE SPECIFICATION: !Ultimate (ULS)
Limit state: !Ultimate (ULS)
Actions Design situations
No. Name 1 2
−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−
0 !Dead load 1.3 0.8
1 !Imposed load 1.5 1.5
2 !Prestressing 1 1

With regard to the last line it should be noted that of the prestressing forces only the
constraints are used if the beam section dimensioning is carried out for ’As: Prestres-
sing=Resistance’.

E 3.1.6 Tabsheet ’Results’

Now we change to the tabsheet ’Results’, and in the column ’Results for’ we choose the
line ’As: PT=Resistance’

Then we input over the first row of columns a beam section of width 1.50 m and an
axial force factor = 1.00 and examine the corresponding result, i.e. the required addi-
tional reinforcing steel.
With this the introductory example comes to a conclusion. In practice, however, one
would still have to produce an extensive documentation, but we will leave this out. In
the sense of a checklist the most important points in the calculation of a prestressed floor
slab are summarized once more in the next section in abbreviated form.

E 3.1.7 Checklist

The following checklist reiterates the most important points which have to be con-
sidered in a prestressed floor slab using CEDRUS-5:
S Input of the outline in plan and of the loads in the basic module of CEDRUS-5. An
’empty’ load case of action type ’Prestressing’ also has to be introduced in order to
be able later to include the loads generated by the prestressing module.
S Specify reinforcement and prestressing layout qualitatively (width of column strips,
gradation of reinforcement etc), clarify geometrical relationships at points of inter-
section (fix distances to boundaries).
S Floor slab with uniform arrangement of columns:
− Carry out pre−dimensioning (with the CEDRUS pre−dimensioning program)
− Select number of strands
− Provide additional reinforcement possibly in boundary and special areas

Geometrically complex floor slab:

determination of a fictitious reinforcing steel using conventional CEDRUS dimen-
sioning methods (beam sections). Then convert to prestressing cross sections corre-
sponding to the ratio of the two steel stresses.
Reminder: This factor depends on whether a prestressing with or without bonding
is chosen (failure stress or existing prestressing steel stress)
S Input prestressing force
S Compare bending deflections due to permanent loads and prestressing in all fields
and if necessary adjust prestressing force

CEDRUS−5 E−25
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

S Ultimate load verification: Determine additional reinforcing steel with the means
provided by CEDRUS
S Check stresses (Note: CEDRUS only calculates moments, so the axial force has to be
estimated). Aim: As few cracks as possible immediately after prestressing
S Check punching shear
S Produce layout plan etc (possibly with export of DXF files to a CAD program)

E−26 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

E 3.2 Two Span Beams

E 3.2.1 Problem description

By means of this example the explanations of chapter E 2.4.2 are documented numeri-
cally. For this purpose a simple system was deliberately chosen, so that the values can
also be obtained by hand calculations.
Structure type Slab
Code: Swisscode
Materials: Concrete C25/30, (−>E c = 32 kN/mm2, n + 0.17) Steel B500B,
Boundary distances for reinforcing steel = 30 mm
Structure: 2 span beam (2 x11.80 m x 3.00 m) with linear bearings (walls:
height=3 m,Young=3.5e7 kN/m2, support: freely rotational,
wall stiffnes) and columns in the middle of the field (0.40 m x 0.40 m,
Area support: settlement=column stiffness, rotations=free)
Slab thickness: d = 0.35 m
Prestressing: According to Fig. A−13 and Fig. A−14
Prestressing with no bonding, vert. variation with standard elements
4 strands (Y1860) "in field" distributed according to sketch
4 strands as "bundle" (Y1860) over columns according to sketch
Area per strand: Ap = 100 mm2,
Rmin = 2.5 m, friction coefficient: m = 0.19/rad, Da = 0.004 rad/m
Stressing procedure: force at start = 0.75 f pk ( f pk = 1860 N/mm2)
Wedge draw−in = −6 mm
FE mesh: Max. size of elements 1 m
Load cases: Dead load (automatically generated)
Live load q = −5 kN/m2 (whole slab), Cathegory storage area
Prestressing (automatically generated)
Procedure:
S Input slab with above dimensions and loads.
S Input prestressing with prestressing module
S Define longitudinal section (beam of width 3 m) and perform dimensioning

Highest point of support

Distance to boundary =
Lowest point of support: 50 mm Lowest point of support:
Distance to boundary = Minimum radius Distance to boundary=
50 mm 50 mm
1.50

Column 1.50

5.00 6.8 6.8 5.00

11.8 11.8

Fig. A−13 Slab outline with tendons

L=0.8 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00 L=0.8

−0.00
−0.10
−0.20 Parabola with
minimum radius

Fig. A−14 Longitudinal section with tendon profile

CEDRUS−5 E−27
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

E 3.2.2 Results

Results of dimensioning for ultimate load in the field at x = 4.83

Limit state specification:

Beam section: Table of As:

Table of tendons

Summary of section forces (from As−Table)

M d
(g ) q) = (1.35* 255.9 + 1.5*146.23) = 564.8 kNm
M p
(P @ e ) M z) = −104.6
P@e = −127.0
Mz (with constraint factor = 1.0) = +22.4
Ȁ
M d
(g ) q ) M z) = 587.2 kNm
(= external action)

By comparison: maximum field moment from beam theory

M(q) + 9 q
l 2 + 9 @ 15 @ 11.82 + 146.85
128 128

Prestressing check (from prestressing record)

å Po [ 6.52 o/oo
Då + 0.0 (prestressing without bonding)
P + 0.00652 E s A s + 1017 kN (cf. above)
P * e = 0.125 * 1017 = 127.1 kNm (cf. above)
Prestressing forces at dimensioning level: N p + gP + 1017 kN
p

. According to SIA 262, [Link] one must apply the resistance factor of the PT steel to the yield
stress and not on the E-modlulus. Therefore the prestressing force must not be reduce here.

E−28 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

Dimensioning (x c and z estimated or taken from cross section program)

Concrete compression zone : x c [ 62.3 mm
Inner lever arm : z [ 285.5 mm
MȀ
Total required tensile force : z d +2057 kN
Reinforcing steel : 2057 * 1017 + 2392 mm2
500ń1.15

åc
xc å s1
Concrete compression Mp
zone
z Np
Prestressing e
å p + åp o ) Då p
P å s2

Strain plane Forces acting on concrete

due to prestressing

Fig. A−15 Cross section dimensioning

By comparison: Dimensioning for ultimate load, prestressing with bonding

The difference between this and the previous dimensioning is that the additional strains
in the prestressing steel are taken into account:

å Po [ 6.52 o/oo
Då + 4.6 o/oo Prestressing with bonding: program supplies assumed maximum
strain in reinforcing steel = 5 o/oo, thus Då at height of
prestressing ca. 4.6 o/oo)
å P [ 11.1 o/oo Yield limit exceeded

fpk=1860
fp=1600
fpk/γs=1617
fpd=1391
σp

Ep=195 kN/mm2
å
0.00713 0.0111 εud=0.02

Fig. A−16 Material law for prestressing steel used in this example

s P [ 1461 N/mm2 (hardening: (1617−1391)*(11.1−7.13)/(20−7.13) )

P + s P A p = 1169 kN

Dimensioning:
Concrete compression zone : x c [ 63 mm
Inner lever arm : z [ 284 mm
Total required tensile force : Md/z = 587/0.284 = 2068 kN
Reinforcing steel : (2068−1169)/(500/1.15) = 2068 mm2

CEDRUS−5 E−29
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

Dimensioning for serviceability, szul = 200 N/mm2

Prestressing without bonding, Results in field at x = 4.83

Limit state specification:

This limit state specification was generated automatically with the analysis parameter
set ’AP1’ associated to it: The specification of ss,adm can be made in the menu ’Set-
tings>Analysis parameter’ for the set ’AP1:Serviceability’.

Table of As values:

Hand calculation or calculation with cross section program (e.g. FAGUS)

Action: Md= Md_max + (Mp_max − P*e) =
256 + 0.8*146 + (−104.6 + 127) = 395.2 kN

Prestressing:
å Po [ 6.52 o/oo
Då + 0.0 (Prestressing without bonding)
P + 0.00652 E s A s = 1017 kN

As−dimensioning:
Concrete compression zone : x c [ 84 mm
Inner lever arm : z [ 278 mm
Total required tensile force : Md/z =1422 kN
Reinforcing steel : (1422−1014)*103/200 = 2040 mm2

Dimensioning for serviceability, Prestressing with bonding

Prestressing:
å Po [ 6.52 o/oo
Då + 0.89 o/oo (addit. strain from steel stress 200 N/mm2 at the level of the tendon)
P + 0.00741 E s A s = 1156 kN

As−dimensioning:
Concrete compression zone : x c [ 84.6 mm
Inner lever arm : z [ 275.7 mm
Total required tensile force : Md/z =1433 kN
Reinforcing steel : (1433−1156)*103/200 = 1385 mm2

E−30 CEDRUS−5
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

E 3.3 Tips and Tricks

E 3.3.1 Duplication of groups

Often one needs to investigate different alternatives. For this purpose tendons and sup-
ports need to be copied from one group to the next. The following key combinations
are necessary for this (in abbreviated form):

1. <Ctrl−A> (select all tendons and supports)

2. <Ctrl−C> (copy all tendons)
3. Create new group
4. <Ctrl−V> (insert all objects)

Regarding point 1:
If for example the support dialogue is open, with <Ctrl−A> only the supports (all of
them) are selected.

E 3.3.2 Generating possibilities

Compared to CEDRUS−3 the number of specific tendon generating possibilities has

been reduced. To compensate for this the functions of the Graphics Editor, which are
identical in all Cubus Windows programs, have been considerably extended. Often one
direction with the extended ’Duplicate’ command can be generated almost in a single
operation (in the case of an unsuccessful attempt don’t forget the ’Undo’ function !). For
skew or irregular slab boundaries the ’Trim’ function can be useful (in a first step gener-
ate tendons over the slab boundary and then select and trim all elements together which
are too long).

E 3.3.3 Checks

When generating a load case all necessary checks are carried out (minimum radii, inter-
section of slab boundary etc).

If an incorrectly input tendon is encountered, a corresponding error message appears

on the screen, the object is marked graphically and the reason for the error is given in
the corresponding table.

For at least each characteristic tendon a longitudinal section should be considered (par-
allel tendons intersecting the same support have a similar or identical profile). Besides
the x’−z profile, often, it can also be tested whether the desired profile was in fact input
correctly by means of the deviation forces (="curvature diagram").

E 3.3.4 Detecting tendons lying on top of each other

See Example 1, Checks (last section)

E 3.3.5 Reference height of supports with different slab thicknesses

For the determination of the z−coordinate of a support both support end points (or the
position shifted inwards by a small tolerance value) are decisive, as is shown in the

CEDRUS−5 E−31
Part E Prestressing Module E 3 Examples

example given below. If these exhibit the same height the input is admissible. For the
supports in all the intermediate zones the same z−coordinate is used.

However, if, as in the case shown below, the input is made with reference to the bottom
slab boundary, with
Lowest support point ... Distance to boundary ...
, strictly speak-
ing this statement holds only for the two external zones.

H Support H

T T

T = Support defined as lowest point

H = Support defined as highest point
Fig. A−17 Support height with different slab thicknesses

To enable external prestressing, no check is carried out on whether the tendons

measured in the vertical direction lie within the slab. If the end point of the support lies
in the area of intersection of two downstanding beams of different thickness, the greater
height is used.

E−32 CEDRUS−5