POST-TENSIONING SYSTEMS
Benefits of Post-Tension Reinforcement
SPS utilizes a variety of techniques to maintain a structurally sound, physically practical, and economically affordable repair. These techniques include the use of post-tensioning systems, utilizing steel tension rods or high strength cables designed to increase the bending strength and shear strength of the target beam(s), which then allow it to accommodate loads greater than the original design load capacity.
The Benefits of Utilizing Post-Tension Structural Reinforcement & Repair Include:
- It is more cost-effective than commonly used conventional reinforcement mothods, utilizing full-length wood or steel channel sister members, which require temporary shoring to alleviate existing stresses in member prior to reinforcement.
- It supports additional loads such as air conditioning units, new ceilings, fire sprinklers, and mechanical equipment, thus increasing life safety by preventing failures and/or collapse.
- Corrects deficiencies in structural fabrication and design.
- Prevents ponding of water on beams by eliminating sag along beam and or purlin lines.
- Restores original strength to fire damaged glued-laminated beams.
- Accommodates changes in building codes that previously allowed higher stresses.
- It is completed without removal and relocation of utilities, sprinklers, piping, HVAC and existing ceilings as required for conventional reinforcement methods.
- Causes less disruption to business operations and yield a shorter construction time.
Have a Question?
We’re here to guide you through every step of your next project. Contact us to speak with a structural specialist and learn how SPS post-tension systems deliver stronger performance, higher load capacity, and faster installation — all while reducing cost and disruption to your operations.
Simply put, with SPS, you can move forward with confidence.
Real-World Applications:
Reinforcement for Roof-Top HVAC & Mechanical Loads
- SPS Inc.'s Post-Tensioning System strengthens existing solid-timber purlins to safely support new HVAC equipment, mechanical piping, and other added loads.
- Installation can be performed without removing or relocating sprinklers, conduits, lighting, or suspended ceiling systems—minimizing disruption to building operations.
Cold-Storage Conversion: Strengthening Glu-Lams & Purlins
- Post-tensioning of both glue-laminated beams and solid-timber purlins provides the additional strength needed when industrial buildings are converted into cold-storage facilities.
- Reinforced members support new ceiling systems, insulated panels, piping, and refrigeration coils.
- The system delivers a shorter construction schedule and is more cost-effective than full ground-supported redesigns requiring shoring and extensive demolition.
Repairing Overstressed Glue-Laminated Beams
- SPS post-tensioning restores capacity to glu-laminated beams experiencing tension failures caused by increased dead loads and long-term overstress.
- Once reinforced, beams can continue carrying suspended loads such as sprinklers, conduits, mechanical ducting, lighting, and ceiling systems—without invasive replacement.
- Reinforcement was completed in a shorter construction timeframe, minimizing downtime and tenant disturbance.
Restoration of Damaged Glue-Laminated Beam
- SPS repaired and reinforced a glu-laminated beam that experienced tension failure due to long-term overstress. The member was re-elevated, structurally repaired, and strengthened to meet current code requirements—all completed without major disruption to ongoing tenant operations.
- Work was performed without full shoring of purlins or removal and replacement of roofing, roof decking, HVAC systems, electrical conduits, or mechanical equipment, significantly reducing impact on the building’s occupants.
- The SPS Post-Tension System offered a far more cost-effective solution compared to conventional beam replacement.