FE analyses and prediction of bursting forces in post-tensioned anchorage zone

To improve the design equation for the evaluation of the bursting force in the post-tensioned anchorage zone, this paper presents the analyses and design of the post-tensioned (PT) anchorage zone on the basis of three dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) analyses. The structural behavior was investigated through linear elastic finite element analyses upon consideration of the change in design parameters such as the bearing plate size, the eccentricity, and the tendon inclination. Moreover, consideration of the duct hole, which causes an increase of the bursting stress with a change in its distribution along the anchorage zone as well, is emphasized. Since that an exact prediction of the bursting force is the primary interest in design practice, additional parametric analyses are carried out to evaluate the relative contribution of all design parameters in determining the bursting force, and a comparison with the design guidelines mentioned in AASHTO-LRFD has been provided. Finally, an improved design guideline that takes into account the influence by the duct hole is suggested.