The word "pre tension" refers to tension that occurs before an event. Its spelling can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "pre" is pronounced as /priː/ (p-ree) which rhymes with "free". The second syllable "ten" is pronounced as /tɛn/ (ten), which rhymes with "men". The final syllable "sion" is pronounced as /ʃən/ (shun), which rhymes with "fun". When put together, the correct pronunciation of "pre tension" is /priː.ˈtɛn.ʃən/ (p-ree-ten-shun).
Pre tension refers to the act of exerting force or pressure on an object or material before it is subjected to additional stress or load. This technique is commonly used in engineering and construction industries to strengthen and reinforce structures made of concrete, steel, or other materials.
In pre tensioning, the object to be reinforced, typically a structural element like a beam or a slab, is first stressed by applying tension with the help of high-strength steel tendons or cables. These tendons are then anchored firmly to the surrounding structure. Once the desired amount of tension is achieved, the tendons are locked in place, either by using specially designed anchoring devices or by casting the object in concrete.
The purpose of pre tensioning is to create an internal force within the structure that counters the external loads it will experience during its service life. By introducing this initial tension, which is typically higher than the expected loads, pre tensioning helps to reduce or eliminate subsequent deflection, cracking, or failure under normal operating conditions.
This method offers several advantages over traditional post-tensioning, where the tendons are applied after the structure is cast. Pre tensioning allows for greater control over the strength and performance of the structure, enhances its durability, and enhances its load-bearing capacity. It also helps in minimizing the cross-sectional dimensions of the structural element, resulting in reduced material usage and overall cost.
The word "pre tension" is derived from the combination of two distinct words: "pre" and "tension".
1. "Pre-" is a prefix derived from Latin meaning "before" or "in front of". It is used to convey the idea of something occurring prior to or in advance of something else. In this case, "pre-" signifies something happening before the state of tension.
2. "Tension" has its origins in Latin and Old French. It stems from the Latin word "tensio" meaning "action of stretching" or "state of being stretched". "Tensio" was derived from the Latin verb "tendere" meaning "to stretch".
By combining the prefix "pre-" with the word "tension", the term "pre tension" is created, meaning the state of being or the act of becoming tense before an event, situation, or action.