The versatility of prestressing systems

DYWIDAG pre-tensioning systems are best known from applications in buildings, bridges, tunnels and viaducts. However, the wide range of pre-tensioning systems also offers a solution for less obvious applications, such as anchoring steel silos or signaling masts to concrete foundations, securing crane tracks, retrofitting balconies and realizing foundation reinforcements. A conversation with Robert Jansen about "the other side of DYWIDAG.

DYWIDAG works daily to make structures safer, stronger and smarter. "In addition to the usual applications, we can be contacted for other situations that involve connecting steel to concrete," Jansen said. "Constructors can basically come to us with all anchoring challenges. We are happy to bite into them and come up with a suitable solution. The application range of our pre-tensioning systems is extremely versatile." 

Landmarks

Anyone who has driven south along the Belgian E411 in recent years has surely noticed the great arch, or Arc Majeur, near Lavaux-Sainte-Anne. In fact, the work of art is almost impossible to miss; it is the largest monumental sculpture in Europe. The Arc Majeur, a creation of French sculptor Bernar Venet, is 60 meters high and weighs 250 tons. DYWIDAG was engaged to anchor this landmark. "The steel base was tensioned to the concrete foundation using our prestressing technique," Jansen knows. "We apply that same 'trick' in many more situations, such as the anchoring of the flare tower at Shell in Moerdijk. The steel mast has been resting on a concrete foundation for more than 40 years. However, its anchoring no longer complies with current laws and regulations. The mast is now being provided with a new foundation of which our pre-tensioning systems are an essential part."

From silos to smart balconies

Even in an industrial environment you come across pre-tensioning systems from DYWIDAG, Jansen continues. "At Tata Steel in IJmuiden, our prestressing rods were used in the overlay construction of a heavy crane track, but also, for example, in the anchoring of wind heaters. These large steel silos were anchored to the concrete foundation using our systems. The anchoring is inspected annually by us." Another great application of DYWIDAG prestressing systems focuses on efficient anchoring of balconies. "With our strands, balconies are literally pulled up against the storey floor. Thanks to this so-called itens© methodology, you can realize balconies in places where it would otherwise be difficult or impossible. Ideal for new construction but certainly also for renovation applications."

The examples mentioned underscore the versatility of the DYWIDAG systems. "It is only a selection of the many possibilities," concludes Jansen, who concludes by sharing two final out-of-the-box situations. "In Amstenrade, Limburg, we recently used our systems to rid six homes of further subsidence caused by past mining activities. This was achieved by filling the crawl space with concrete and tying it to the existing foundation, so that the foundation under the homes now functions as one large slab. And at the sight weir in the Lek River near Hagestein, a leading work of art in the Dutch struggle against water, we have stretched the base plate of the hinge pieces against the concrete piers. In short, we don't shy away from any challenge."