Title:
Temperature-Related Mechanical Effects in Concrete Elements and Optimization of the Manufacturing Process
Author(s):
E Acker; C. Foucrier; and Y. Malier
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
95
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
33-48
Keywords:
computer programs; concretes; heat of hydration; optimization; precast concrete; prestressed concrete; reinforced concrete; setting (hardening); temperature; tests; thermal stresses.
DOI:
10.14359/6271
Date:
10/1/1986
Abstract:
The DITEX computer program was developed to predict the temperature distribution in a concrete structural element during manufacture and to evaluate the resulting stresses. This program takes account of several types of boundary conditions : variable ambient temperatures, and various kinds of formwork and heat treatment. A simple and inexpensive specific test has been developed to determine the heat of hydration of the cement, the kinetics of which are a function of position. The test consists of recording the temperature during setting of a concrete sample subjected to adiabatic conditions. These tools have recently been applied to actual cases (bridges, tunnels, pressure vessels, etc.) and have demonstrated the variety of their applications: - optimization of the temperature cycle, making possible a significant reduction in fuel consumption; - better distribution of heating resistors to avoid cracks completely; - selection of the type of cement based on quantitative analysis - a judicious staging of the casting of large structures.