Maximum Strength of Precast Concrete Products: Modern Prestressing Technology Using Hydraulic Jacks
In modern precast concrete production, a key factor in durability and structural reliability is the correct application of concrete prestressing. To ensure that finished slabs and structural elements can withstand extreme loads without cracking, a specialized reinforcement stressing technology using hydraulic jacks is applied, where hydraulic jacks play a central role. The use of professional equipment significantly improves the performance characteristics of precast products, ensuring high rigidity and resistance to external impacts.
Principle of Operation and Core Methodology
The essence of the process lies in creating prestress in steel elements either prior to concrete casting or during on-site installation. Specialized devices, such as PAUL stressing jacks, grip the reinforcement material (wire, steel strands, or tendons) using an internal spring-loaded chuck or wedge anchorage.
The process operates as follows:
- The device is fixed onto the reinforcement.
- Hydraulic force elongates the material to the specified parameters.
- The stress is locked using anchorage grips.
This is how the prestressing technology is implemented in practice. Hydraulic jacks provide uniform and precisely controlled force, which is critical for the quality of the final product. The equipment can operate both with single wires ranging from 2 to 16 mm in diameter and with multi-strand tendons.
Application Areas of Prestressing Systems
The scope of application covers both factory production lines and construction sites. Depending on the task, a specific type of equipment is selected:
- Precast Concrete Plants. These facilities mass-produce hollow-core slabs, beams, and other elements using the extrusion (long-line) method. For such applications, single-hose and double-hose models are ideal due to their high operating speed and reliability.
- Construction Sites. For post-tensioning directly on-site, TENSA SM series jacks (double-hose type) are commonly used. They are effective for stressing steel strands in mono-strand anchorages.
- Large-Scale Industrial Projects. Four-hose models allow the operator to control the entire cycle (gripping, stressing, locking, and retraction) with a single button press, which is indispensable for high-volume operations.
Wherever advanced prestressing technology is implemented, hydraulic jacks serve as a guarantee of structural safety for future constructions.
Why Professionals Choose PAUL Hydraulic Systems
The choice in favor of specialized equipment supplied by TDM Engineering Oy is driven by several undeniable advantages. First and foremost is precision. The systems ensure full compliance with specified engineering parameters. Steel rods and wires receive uniform stress along their entire length, eliminating the risk of defective products.
Secondly, versatility and power. Standard models deliver forces ranging from 60 kN to 200 kN with cylinder strokes of 200–400 mm. Despite this, the equipment remains compact and easy to operate. For example, PAUL mini jacks perform reliably even in confined spaces while maintaining high productivity.
Thirdly, durability. Robust components and well-engineered design solutions (such as hydraulic wedge anchor locking without stress loss) make this equipment a sound long-term investment. Correct prestressing technology combined with reliable hydraulic jacks and quality service enables uninterrupted plant operation.
A Reliable Partnership for Your Business
High-quality reinforcement is the foundation of any precast concrete manufacturer’s reputation. TDM Engineering Oy does not simply offer equipment for purchase but delivers comprehensive solutions for your production needs. We supply time-tested PAUL hydraulic jacks known for exceptional quality and competitive pricing.
Your benefits when working with TDM:
- Individual approach: the possibility to order equipment with non-standard working parameters tailored to your requirements.
- Comprehensive supply: hydraulic power units (NG50, NG15), anchorage systems, and spare parts are also available.
- Service support: professional maintenance, warranty, and technical assistance.
Do not compromise the quality of your products. Contact us today to receive an engineering consultation and select the optimal solution for your business.