Reduced Environmental Impact
VSL’s post-tensioning systems also play a major role in keeping the construction process—and the structure itself—green. Because of its durability, ease of production and cooling properties, concrete is already widely accepted as a viable green building material. The use of post-tensioning further elevates its environmentally friendly status by ensuring a more efficient use of materials in the concrete frame, foundation, facade, cladding and M/E/P systems.
Adaptability, Ease of Future Modifications
In areas of healthcare facilities that are subject to structural modifications, such as new openings and mechanical systems installation, VSL offers bonded slab systems as a viable alternative to unbonded monostrand systems. With bonded systems, tendon free areas can be designed into the slabs at designated locations and around columns for future penetrations. Additionally, the open areas can be marked on the top and bottom of all slabs or ground penetrating radar (GPR) can be used easily to locate tendons.
Design Flexibility / Versatility
Cast-in-place, post-tensioned construction allows for versatility in structural layout. Structural floor configurations are virtually limitless and shapes and forms are easily achieved in a cost-effective manner. Use of VSL’s bonded slab systems (2-5 strands per tendon) allow for increased column spacing in slabs, while multistrand systems (up to 55 strands per tendon) have been used for transfer beams to create open spaces that carry the loads of the structure above it.
Simplified Construction
Compared to a conventionally reinforced concrete structure, the formwork required for a post-tensioned structure is simplified allowing for a rapid pace of construction. The reduction of mild steel reinforcement also allows for quicker placement and easier consolidation of concrete.
Vibration Reduction
Post-tensioned, cast-in-place concrete structures offer maximum stiffness and vibration control over steel structures – without adding significant building mass.
Seismic Resistance
In comparison to conventionally reinforced structures, post-tensioned concrete structures have a lower floor height that allows for reduced seismic forces at the foundation. This reduction in forces allows for less cracking and residual displacement during seismic activity.