Finite element modeling of prestressed concretebeam

As the finite element (FE) modeling of prestressed concrete structures is complex, in the present study features of finite element analysis of a typical symmetrical simply supported Ibeam with prestress tendons is demonstrated. The deflections and stresses obtained from finite element analysis are compared with the results obtained from conventional formulae. From the comparison of the cambers at pretension stage and at transfer stage it is seen that conventional method results are 9% and 7% higher than FEA results. The stresses at transfer in conventional method is 10% higher than FE results in compression zone and the stresses at transfer in tension zone is found to be conservative.