What is the process of stressing high strength steel wires before concrete hardens called?

Study for the GERTC PSAD Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The process of stressing high strength steel wires before concrete hardens is known as pre-tensioning. This technique involves placing high-strength steel tendons in tension prior to the concrete being poured. The tendons are anchored at both ends, and when the concrete hardens, the tension in the wires is released, compressing the concrete. This pre-compression helps the concrete withstand tensile stresses during service and enhances its overall strength and load-carrying capacity.

Understanding pre-tensioning is crucial in construction and structural engineering because it significantly improves the performance of concrete under load. The method is commonly used in precast concrete elements, such as beams and slabs, providing a practical solution for reducing the risk of cracking and increasing durability.

In contrast, post-tensioning refers to a similar process where tendons are placed inside ducts within the concrete. After the concrete hardens, the tendons are then tensioned. Relaxation is a phenomenon that affects tendons over time and is not a method of treating them. Elasticity pertains to the property of materials to deform under stress and return to their original shape, which is not directly related to the process of tensioning steel wires.

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