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Wahid Elgohary

PT concrete structures are thought of as revolutionary in the field of structural engineering with numerous applications nowadays. That being said, they are one of the most complex structural systems both in terms of design and execution on site, however, they bring unmatched advantages in terms of speed of construction, slim structural depths, and longer uninterrupted spans that is hardly matched by any other form of conventional concrete.

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PT concrete structures are thought of as revolutionary in the field of structural engineering with numerous applications nowadays. That being said, they are one of the most complex structural systems both in terms of design and execution on site, however, they bring unmatched advantages in terms of speed of construction, slim structural depths, and longer uninterrupted spans that is hardly matched by any other form of conventional concrete.

Whether you are a student at uni, a graduate engineer, or a structural civil engineer in your early to mid of your career, this course will be suited for you to gain insight into the fundamental knowledge and terminology that is commonly used in the industry . This course is also suited to non-structural engineers, such as building professionals who are looking to gain more knowledge about the topic of PT structures.

We will go over the fundamental design philosophy of PT structures, their applications, benefits, terminology, and we will touch on the elastic stress analysis of typical PT floors.

Fundamental knowledge of basic structural engineering knowledge is required, and it is preferred if you have undertaken the RC floors design course beforehand as a refresher of such design basics.

My name is Wahid Elgohary and I will be your instructor for this introductory course to pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, lets get started.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Design Philosophy and Examples
Why do we need PT?
Examples of PT
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what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suits structural civil engineers in their early to mid-career, offering insights into the fundamental knowledge and terminology commonly used in the industry
Suited for students and graduate engineers seeking to gain insight into the fundamental knowledge and terminology used in the industry
Benefits non-structural engineers and building professionals who are looking to gain more knowledge about the topic of PT structures
Explores the design philosophy of PT structures, their applications, benefits, and terminology, which are essential for structural engineering students
Requires fundamental knowledge of basic structural engineering, suggesting it builds upon existing knowledge rather than starting from scratch
Prefers learners to have undertaken the RC floors design course beforehand as a refresher of such design basics, which may be a barrier to entry

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Reviews summary

Introduction to pre-stress and post-tension concrete

According to learners, this course serves as a solid introduction to the fundamental concepts of pre-stress and post-tension concrete. Students appreciate that it covers the design philosophy, terminology, and provides a clear overview of principles. Many find it very useful for beginners or those new to the subject, praising the knowledgeable instructor for explaining complex ideas simply. However, reviewers consistently point out that while the course provides a strong foundation and touches on elastic stress analysis, it remains strictly introductory and may lack the depth and practical design details needed by more experienced engineers. Basic structural engineering prerequisites are necessary.
Basic structural engineering needed.
"Make sure you have basic structural knowledge before starting this course, it helps immensely."
"Felt challenging at times because my structural background was rusty, as mentioned in the prerequisites."
"It really helps if you understand RC design basics first as recommended."
Instructor explains topics clearly.
"The instructor is clearly an expert in the field and explains the concepts well."
"Wahid explains the concepts well and his teaching style made the material understandable."
"The instructor presents the topics clearly and at a good pace for beginners."
Explains key principles, terminology, and philosophy.
"Covers fundamental knowledge and terminology that is commonly used..."
"The course goes over the fundamental design philosophy of PT structures..."
"Learned the basic concept and terminology of pre-stress/post-tension concrete..."
"The terminology explanations were very helpful."
Provides a solid overview of core concepts.
"This course is a solid introduction for anyone new to PT concrete."
"Provides a very good introduction into the basics and fundamentals..."
"A very helpful introduction into the world of PT and PC concrete."
"Perfect introductory course covering the basics of prestressed concrete."
Good overview but lacks practical depth.
"It's a good start for fundamentals, but don't expect detailed design procedures or code applications."
"Covers the basics well, but could use more advanced topics and practical design examples for engineers."
"As a practicing engineer, I found it a useful refresher but needed more depth on design aspects."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Pre-Stress and Post-Tension Concrete with these activities:
Review Basic Structural Engineering Principles
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental structural engineering concepts, which are essential for grasping the design principles of pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete.
Browse courses on Structural Analysis
Show steps
  • Review textbooks and notes from previous structural engineering courses.
  • Work through practice problems related to stress, strain, and bending moments.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic structural analysis methods.
Review 'Prestressed Concrete: A Fundamental Approach' by Edward G. Nawy
Deepen your understanding of prestressed concrete design principles by studying a comprehensive textbook.
View Prestressed Concrete on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to design philosophy and stress analysis.
  • Work through the example problems provided in the book.
  • Compare the book's approach to the methods presented in the course.
Practice PT Section Stress Analysis Problems
Sharpen your skills in performing stress analysis on prestressed concrete sections, a crucial aspect of PT design.
Show steps
  • Find or create example problems involving different PT section geometries and loading conditions.
  • Calculate the stresses at various points in the section due to prestress and applied loads.
  • Compare your results with solutions or software outputs to verify accuracy.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Presentation on PT Applications
Solidify your knowledge of PT concrete by researching and presenting real-world applications.
Show steps
  • Research various applications of prestressed and post-tensioned concrete structures.
  • Prepare a presentation outlining the benefits and challenges of using PT concrete in each application.
  • Include visuals and examples to illustrate your points.
  • Present your findings to peers or colleagues.
Review 'Post-Tensioned Concrete Principles and Practice' by P.W. Judge
Gain a deeper understanding of post-tensioned concrete principles and practices through a specialized book.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to tendon layout and anchorage design.
  • Study the case studies presented in the book.
  • Compare the book's recommendations with industry standards and best practices.
Design a Simple PT Floor System
Apply your knowledge by designing a basic prestressed concrete floor system for a hypothetical building.
Show steps
  • Define the structural requirements and loading conditions for the floor system.
  • Select appropriate materials and prestressing system.
  • Perform stress analysis and design calculations to ensure structural adequacy.
  • Prepare design drawings and specifications.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Pre-Stress and Post-Tension Concrete will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Concrete Specialist
As a concrete specialist, your focus is on all aspects of concrete, from mixing and testing to placement and curing. This course is invaluable, as it goes over the fundamental design philosophy of PT structures, their applications, and their benefits. The course provides specialized knowledge in pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, equipping you with the tools to handle these complex systems. The examination of terminology is of particular importance. You'll be well-versed in the specific techniques and considerations needed for successful implementation. A concrete specialist should take this course to understand the nuances of pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete.
Structural Engineer
As a structural engineer, you will design and oversee the construction of buildings and infrastructure, ensuring their safety and stability. This course, which introduces pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, helps build a foundation for understanding advanced concrete structural systems. In particular, it discusses applications, benefits, and terminology. The course's coverage of the fundamental design philosophy of pre-stressed and post-tensioned structures directly prepares you to be successful as a structural engineer. Learning about the elastic stress analysis of typical post-tensioned floors also helps build your understanding of this material. A future structural engineer should take this course to understand PT systems.
Bridge Engineer
Bridge engineers specialize in the design, construction, and maintenance of bridges. This course, which introduces pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, focuses on structural systems that are especially relevant to bridge design. The course's discussion of longer uninterrupted spans helps bridge engineers understand how to build bridges that meet modern needs. Coverage of design principles and stress analysis are also relevant to bridge design. A bridge engineer should take this course to gain specialized knowledge in the application of pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete in bridge construction, especially if they did not learn about this in their undergraduate studies.
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers plan, design, and supervise the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects. The course's introduction to pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete will be valuable in designing modern and efficient structures. The discussion of design philosophy and the advantages of pre-stressed concrete helps civil engineers choose the right materials. Moreover, the coverage of design principles can help a civil engineer working on bridges or large buildings that require longer spans and less structural depth. This course helps civil engineers who want to specialize in advanced concrete design and construction. The course will be especially helpful for engineers who want to understand advanced design principles.
Materials Engineer
Materials engineers research and develop new materials and processes. This course, which introduces pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, helps build a foundation for understanding advanced concrete materials and their behavior under stress. The course's introduction to terminology and the information on benefits and design principles are particularly relevant. A materials engineer may find the study of pre-cast concrete especially interesting. The course helps materials engineers who wish to specialize in concrete technology and structural systems.
Building Inspector
Building inspectors examine buildings and structures to ensure compliance with regulations. This course on pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete provides an understanding of these advanced structural systems, ensuring structures meet safety standards. Learning about the terminology, design principles, and stress analysis of PT structures helps inspectors identify potential issues. The introduction to post-tension concrete systems is also helpful. Building inspectors who want to specialize in advanced concrete construction should take this course.
Estimator
Estimators prepare cost estimates for construction projects. This course on pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete will be helfpul as you examine PT systems. Learning about the benefits of PT concrete, such as reduced material usage and faster construction times, helps in accurate cost estimation. The introduction to post-tension concrete systems is also helpful. The terminology outlined will be very important. Estimators who want to specialize in advanced concrete construction should take this course.
Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. This course, which introduces pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, may be useful for managing projects that involve these advanced systems. The discussion of the benefits and applications of PT structures are particularly relevant. Understanding the terminology associated with PT concrete, as covered in this course, allows you to communicate effectively with structural engineers and contractors. A future construction manager should take this course to gain insight into the construction methods associated with these advanced techniques.
Project Manager
Project managers plan, execute, and close projects, ensuring they meet their objectives. This course, which introduces pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete, builds a foundation for managing construction projects involving advanced concrete systems. The course's introduction to terminology allows project managers to communicate effectively with engineers and contractors. Understanding the benefits of pre-stressed concrete, such as faster construction times, helps project managers plan and schedule projects efficiently. The coverage of applications will be helpful for project managers. This course may be useful for managers who are new to working with pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete.
Architect
Architects design buildings and spaces, focusing on aesthetics and functionality. The course's introduction to pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete may increase an architect's understanding of modern structural systems and their potential architectural applications. Learning about the benefits of pre-stressed concrete, such as longer spans and reduced structural depth, helps architects design more open and flexible spaces. Furthermore, the exploration of real-world examples of pre-stressed concrete structures provides inspiration for architectural design. The course helps architects who wish to push the boundaries of structural design in their buildings. Architects will find the introduction to post-tension concrete especially helpful.
Construction Foreman
Construction foremen supervise construction workers and coordinate activities on site. This course on pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete may be useful for overseeing projects that utilize these advanced techniques. The introduction to PT concrete, its benefits, and its applications, is a must for those in construction. The overview of terminology helps the foreman communicate effectively with engineers and skilled workers. The discussion of design principles helps foremen understand the intent behind the structural design. This course may be useful for construction foremen wanting to improve their understanding of advanced concrete structures.
Geotechnical Engineer
Geotechnical engineers analyze soil and rock properties to design foundations and earthworks. While this course primarily focuses on concrete structures, the design principles and stress analysis concepts covered may be useful for understanding how structures interact with the ground. Learning about pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete helps geotechnical engineers collaborate effectively with structural engineers on complex projects. The introduction to design philosophy and post-tension concrete systems is essential for a geotechnical engineer. The course may be useful for engineers who work on projects involving large concrete structures, as it builds a common language.
CAD Technician
CAD Technicians create technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design software. The course's introduction to pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete helps understand the design and construction of these structures. The principles and examples of PT structures will be helpful. Understanding the terminology and applications of PT systems aids in accurately representing these elements in technical drawings. CAD technicians who focus on structural designs should take this course.
Urban Planner
Urban planners develop plans and programs for land use. This course on pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete helps understand the structural possibilities of modern construction, especially with the design principles of PT structures. The discussion of the benefits, such as longer spans and reduced structural depth, can inform decisions about building placement and infrastructure development. Examples of PT construction will be helpful for an urban planner. Urban planners who want to stay informed about modern construction technologies should take this course.
Quantity Surveyor
Quantity surveyors manage the costs of construction projects. This course on pre-stressed and post-tensioned concrete design may assist in understanding the cost implications of using these advanced systems. Learning about the benefits of PT structures, such as reduced material usage, helps in accurate cost estimation. The introduction to design philosophy will also be beneficial. This course may be useful for quantity surveyors looking to expand their expertise in modern construction techniques.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Pre-Stress and Post-Tension Concrete.
Provides a comprehensive overview of prestressed concrete principles and design. It covers topics such as material properties, prestress losses, flexural and shear design, and serviceability requirements. It valuable reference for understanding the underlying concepts and design methodologies discussed in the course. This book is commonly used as a textbook in prestressed concrete design courses.
Focuses specifically on post-tensioned concrete, providing detailed guidance on design, construction, and inspection. It covers topics such as tendon layout, anchorage design, and grouting procedures. It valuable resource for understanding the practical aspects of post-tensioned concrete construction. This book is useful as additional reading to expand on the course materials.

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