PT design review, optimisation and full PT packages in Qatar

Design code: the consultant’s choice

Structural design in Qatar is done to the international code the consultant adopts, most often ACI 318 or BS EN 1992 (Eurocode 2), with BS 8110 still found on some projects. We design in whichever the project uses. For Eurocode-based PT floors we use Concrete Society TR43 as the design guide, alongside EN 1992-1-1.

QCS 2024 for execution

The Qatar Construction Specifications, QCS 2024 (QS 27:2024), replaced QCS 2014 in March 2024. Section 5 (Concrete), Part 18 covers prestressed concrete: materials and equipment, handling and storage, the stressing operation, grouting and the contractor’s submittals. Our drawings and stressing schedules are written so the specialist contractor can demonstrate compliance: clear elongation acceptance criteria, a stressing sequence, and grouting requirements for bonded tendons.

Exposure and durability

Coastal sites, high groundwater and aggressive ground are common in Qatar. Cover, tendon corrosion protection and, for unbonded tendons in aggressive environments, an encapsulated system are fixed at scheme stage, because cover changes the drape and with it the prestress you can use.

Restraint and long floor plates

Podium and car-park floors are often large and stiffly restrained by cores and basement walls. We model the restraint, place pour strips, and keep average precompression in the useful range rather than pushing it up and buying shortening cracks.

Method and deliverables: post-tension slab design and PT shop drawings. If a design already exists, a PT design review may be the faster route.