Parametric Analysis of Prestressed Concrete Beams With the Finite Element Method

This study presents a numerical analysis of a prefabricated prestressed concrete beam subjected to a three-point bending test. The beam has a span length of 4600 mm and cross-section of 240 x 400 mm, and was prestressed with a single 7-wire strand with a diameter of 15.2 mm. In order to ensure the propriety and reliability of the numerical model of the studied beam, a parametric analysis of the influence of selected model components on the determined results was carried out. Using the finite element method (FEM) software Abaqus/CAE by Simulia, the following parameters were analyzed: a) the effect of mesh size and meshing method, b) the type and shape of elements, c) the method of transferring the prestressing force, d) the effect of passive reinforcement. To check the reliability and effectiveness of the model, the obtained numerical results were compared and contrasted with analytical solutions, assessing the sensitivity of FEM factors. The results presented in the paper demonstrate high agreement between numerical simulations and analytical calculations for the prestressed concrete beam, encompassing the deflection and stresses in both the elastic and characteristic states of inelastic ranges.