ABSTRACT
In prestressed concrete structural members, the prestressing force is usually transferred from the prestressing steel to the concrete in one of two different ways. In post-tensioned construction, relatively small anchorage plates transfer the force from the tendon to the concrete immediately behind the anchorage by bearing at each end of the tendon. For pretensioned members, the force is transferred by bond between the tendon and the concrete. In either case, the prestressing force is transferred in a relatively concentrated fashion, usually at the end of the member, and involves high local pressures and forces. A finite length of the member is required for the concentrated forces to disperse to form the linear compressive stress distribution usually assumed in design.
