Strengthening of Concrete,

Timber and Masonry Structures

www.structural.net

FALLINGWATER
MILL RUN, PENNSYLVANIA

award of
EXCELLENCE

award of
EXCELLENCE

The cantilevered balconies of Frank Lloyd Wrights renowned

structure strengthened using a combination of monostrand and
multistrand post-tensioning systems and carbon FRP composites.

Structural Group has completed thousands of

strengthening projects, many of which have
received Awards of Excellence by the International
Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) and the
Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI).

PREHEATER TOWER
FLORENCE, COLORADO

award of
EXCELLENCE

2004 PROJECT
OF THE YEAR

SCHOOL GLULAM BEAMS

SEABROOK, MARYLAND

A 328-ft. tall preheater towers beam-to-column connections

strengthened using an internal, bonded multistrand
post-tensioning system.

Wooden glulam beams supporting an elementary school roof

strengthened using epoxy injection, Hardwire SRP composites
and an external post-tensioning system.

PUBLIC TRANSIT SYSTEM

PCCP PIPE

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

award of
excellence

Elevated precast beams strengthened with carbon FRP composites

to restore capacity lost by debonded prestressing tendons.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND

award of
excellence

Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP) strengthened using

multi-directional carbon FRP composite sheets eliminated the need
to excavate and replace damaged 16-ft. pipe sections.

HIGHWAY PIER CAP

MIAMI, FLORIDA

award of
excellence

CEMENT STORAGE SILOS

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

award of
excellence

Piers supporting two-lane elevated highway with insufficient

reinforcement strengthened using horizontal and vertical multistrand
post-tensioning tendons encased in a concrete enlargement.

Six reinforced concrete silos strengthened using external near

surface mounted (NSM) carbon FRP bars, then coated with an
acrylic topcoat for durability and aesthetics.

ARENA ROOF SUPPORTS

OFFICE PARKING

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA

award of
EXCELLENCE

award of
EXCELLENCE

Ring beam supporting precast concrete roof segments

strengthened using multistrand external post-tensioning
system contained within water-tight plastic ducts.

RETAIL PARKING
BETHESDA, MARYLAND

award of
excellence

Large shopping mall parking garage strengthened using a

combination of external post-tensioning systems, carbon FRP
composites, section enlargement and supplemental steel framing.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

award of
excellence

A 1,000-space post-tensioned parking garage strengthened using

carbon FRP composites, span shortening and supplemental steel
supports.

FREEDOM TOWER
MIAMI, FLORIDA

award of
excellence

Historic towers beams and columns strengthened using section

enlargement and carbon FRP composites because of low concrete
strength and the need to increase load-carrying requirements.

tructural Group utilizes the latest technologies to

develop innovative strategies to repair, restore and
increase the load-carrying capacity of concrete,
steel, masonry and timber structures.
Structural Group offers a unique blend of design
support, contracting, systems and materials, making
us the leader in strengthening of existing structures.
We leverage Structural Preservation Systems (SPS)
specialty contracting experience with VSLs engineering
and advanced reinforcing products to deliver the optimal
repair or strengthening solution for each project.

Strengthening Services:

!
!
!
!
!

Construction Services
Preliminary Evaluation
Technical Support
Budget Development
Load Testing

Solutions For:
Increased Loads
! Missing or Misplaced
Reinforcement
! Change in Code
! Low Concrete Strength
! New Slab Penetrations
! Seismic Upgrade
! Blast Mitigation
!

Single-Source Solutions for Structural Strengthening

from Americas Largest Specialty Repair Contractor
Whether a structure in need of strengthening
is occupied and fully functional or under
construction, the goals of owners, engineers and
general contractors are typically the same to
deliver a safe, efficient and economical solution.
Structural Group is widely recognized for its
ability to assist project teams in the development
of unique and comprehensive solutions for every
imaginable scenario.

Engineering Support
and Systems Expertise
VSL, the worldwide leader in the design and
manufacture of post-tensioning and specialty
reinforcement systems, provides engineers with
a team of technical support staff to perform
preliminary evaluations and load testing.
Once the desired load requirements have been
determined, VSL offers access to reinforcing
systems and the latest advancements in
composite technology to help evaluate multiple
strengthening options in order to produce the
most cost-effective solution.

Unparalleled Experience
Structural Preservation Systems (SPS) brings the
knowledge and experience of more than 15,000
successful repair and strengthening projects to
help balance issues related to constructability
and sequencing, while also addressing nontechnical matters such as safety, economics,
access and aesthetics.
Upon selection of the strengthening method,
SPS extensively preplans all aspects of the repair
strategy, then assembles crews of SPS employees
who are trained in specialized techniques and
can work around the clock, 365 days a year,
to safely complete projects under the tightest
schedules and toughest working conditions.

www.structural.net

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Application of Hardwire SRP composites to increase the capacity of concrete risers

Placement of near surface mounted (NSM) carbon FRP composite rods in parking structure
U-wrap installation of carbon FRP composite sheet on beam for shear upgrade
Wrapping low compressive strength concrete columns with carbon FRP composite sheets
Strengthening of slab openings for new mechanical penetrations using carbon FRP composites
Elevated vehicular overpass shear upgrade using carbon FRP composite sheets

HIPPODROME THEATRE
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

award of
excellence

Concrete balcony of an historic theater strengthened using

Hardwire SRP composites on risers and bonded reinforced
concrete on landers.

SLAB OPENINGS & PENETRATIONS

WASHINGTON, DC

Conversion of a six-story reinforced concrete building into

condominiums required strengthening of hundreds of new slab
penetrations to accommodate new piping and mechanical systems
using carbon FRP composites.

Case Studies

Services

Externally Bonded Composites

tructural Group has installed in excess

of 5,000,000-sq. ft. of Fiber Reinforced
Polymer (FRP) material on more than 600
structural strengthening projects. As a leader
and innovator in structural strengthening and
upgrades, we have also developed a new line
of strengthening composites, Hardwire Steel
Reinforced Polymer (SRP).

Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites are

thin laminates that are externally bonded to
structural elements using an epoxy adhesive to increase their load-carrying
capacity. FRP systems are made of high strength fibers (such as glass,
carbon or steel) embedded in a resin matrix in the form of fabric sheets and
pre-cured bars, rods or plates. FRP materials are lightweight, durable and
non-corrosive and can be installed quickly, making them one of the most
cost-effective strengthening solutions.
Hardwire Steel Reinforced Polymer (SRP) composites are made from high
strength twisted steel wires. This revolutionary reinforcing system offers endusers the ability to put ultra-high tensile strength steel (up to 450 ksi) inside
or outside almost any material. Polymeric resin and cementitious grout can
be used to create the Hardwire composite system. This system provides
the advantage of lower material cost while maintaining performance and
installation benefits similar to those of concrete overlays and FRP composites.

Features and Benefits:

High Tensile Strength
! Lightweight
! Corrosion Resistant
! Installs Quickly
! No Heavy Equipment Required
for Installation
! Maintains Aesthetics
of the Structure
!

Composites Applications:
Shear Capacity Improvement
! Flexural Capacity Improvement
! Compression Capacity
Improvement
! Blast Mitigation
! Seismic Upgrades
! Crack Control
! New Slab Penetrations
!

www.structural.net

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Before Test

After Test

Installation of Hardwire SRP composites for blast mitigation

Column strengthening with carbon FRP composites
Before blast testing of CMU wall (see image #4)
After blast test, the wall on the left was reinforced with Hardwire SRP
Reinforcing punching shear capacity at column areas in slab
Enlargement of beam using conventional steel reinforcement

CONSTRUCTING BLAST-RESISTANT
POST-TENSIONED SLABS
VSLs proprietary bonded slab system,
VSLAB+, has been adapted from VSL
Mulitstrand Post-Tensioning technology used in buildings, bridge
decks and other special applications throughout the world. The system
uses up to five strands contained in flat-shaped ducts and anchorages.
Strands are individually stressed and gripped by wedge action. After
stressing, the ducts are filled with cement grout that fully bonds the
strands to the surrounding concrete.
Bonded systems improve structural redundancy and blast resistance,
while also allowing for thinner slabs and superior resistance to
corrosion. Because the systems are bonded, they also ease future
structural modifications.

Services

Strengthening for Blast Resistance

tructural Groups systems enhance

the blast and ballistics resistance and
mitigation for concrete, masonry, steel and
timber structural elements. Upgrading existing
structures depends on the required increase
in blast resistance, risk levels and blast loads.
Existing conditions, cost and constructability
are evaluated to determine the best solution for
each application.

Structural Groups innovative solutions have

been successfully used to increase the resistance, stiffness and/or mass of
structural elements.
To achieve an optimal upgrade solution, two main strengthening techniques
are used conventional and advanced systems. Conventional systems
include methods such as section enlargement and supplemental steel
framing. Advanced methods include the use of carbon FRP and Hardwire
SRP composite systems externally bonded to structural elements.

Solutions:
Shielding of the Structure
! Strengthening of Existing
Structural Elements
! Creating Alternative Load Paths
to Prevent Progressive Collapse
! Debris Control
!

Techniques:
FRP Composites
! SRP Composites
! Section Enlargement
! External / Internal
Post-Tensioning
!

www.structural.net

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Tower beams strengthened with internal multistrand post-tensioning tendons, placed in 87-ft. long core-drilled holes
External monostrand post-tensioning system to increase flexural capacity of beams
Stressing of external monostrand system on timber roof support
Barrier cable installed on parking structure
Monostrand tendons placed within formwork prior to concrete placement to provide fire protection
Stressing of external monostrand tendon

BEAM ENLARGEMENT WITH PT

GARAGE DOUBLE T UPGRADE

Post-tensioned parking structure beams strengthened by adding

unbonded post-tensioning tendons, encased in a self-consolidating
concrete enlargement for added durability and fire resistance.

Precast members strengthened because of increased vehicular loads

using VStrand heat-resistive external post-tensioning system, carbon
FRP composites, span shortening and externally bonded steel elements.

WASHINGTON, DC

SPRINGFIELD, VIRGINIA

Case Studies

Services

External and Internal Post-Tensioning

ost-tensioning is VSLs core business. As

part of Structural Group, VSL has provided
post-tensioning services for countless
strengthening projects over the last 50 years.
As a single source solution, VSL leads the way
in the design, manufacturing and installation of
post-tensioning systems.

Post-tensioning systems help control deflection,

are corrosion and fire resistant and reduce
concrete mass and building costs. External
post-tensioning consists of prestressing tendons externally attached to the
structural element at anchor points, typically located at member ends. Uplift
forces are introduced to the member at specific locations along its span.
By controlling the tendons profile along the member, the desired level of
capacity and serviceability improvement is achieved.
Internal post-tensioning systems, on the other hand, are installed within
the member; therefore, the structural element itself provides the required
protection to increase durability and fire resistance. After stressing, the
tendons may be grouted to achieve a bonded system.

Features and Benefits:

Control Deflection
! Corrosion Resistant
! Fire Resistant
! Applicable for Substantial
Load Capacity Improvement
!

Post-Tensioning Systems:
Monostrand
! Bonded Multistrand
! VSLAB+ Bonded Slabs
! VStrand Heat Resistive Tendons
! Threaded Bar
! Barrier Cable
!

www.structural.net

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Form and pump enlargement of column using self-consolidating concrete

Column enlargement for axial strength increase
Supplemental steel bracing in parking structure
Placement of bonded concrete overlay
Enlargement of beam and girder connection
Formwork construction for beam enlargement

CASINO LOBBY
ATLANTIC CITY, NEW JERSEY

award of
excellence

Internal slab removed and columns and beams strengthened using

carbon FRP composites, section enlargement and self-consolidating
concrete in limited access areas.

CONDOMINIUM
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA

Condominium columns and beams strengthened using section

enlargement, carbon FRP composites and externally bonded steel
plates at beam-column connections.

Case Studies

Services

Enlargement and Supplemental Steel

y incorporating VSLs technical knowhow and cutting edge reinforcing products

with Structural Preservations Systems
(SPS) extensive field experience and innovative
strengthening services, Structural Group is able
to provide strengthening techniques for any
strengthening challenge. Aside from traditional
strengthening methods, Structural Group can
provide alternative strengthening services that
may be better suited for a particular project.

Techniques:
Section Enlargement
! Bonded Overlays
! Span Shortening
! Steel Plates / Shapes
! Epoxy Injection
!

Section Enlargement and Bonded Overlays are used to improve strength,

increase stiffness or reduce crack widths at service levels. Consisting of
additional concrete added to an existing structural member, they may also
incorporate additional reinforcement.
Span Shortening can reduce the bending and shear forces on overstressed
beams, joists and slabs. Typically, structural steel members and cast-in-place
reinforced concrete members are used for span shortening applications.
Externally Bonded Steel Shapes are attached to existing concrete surfaces to
add strength and stiffness to deficient members. External steel shapes include
plates, channels, angles or built-up members.
Epoxy Injection is a common method used to restore monolithic action of
structural members by injecting epoxy adhesives into fractured concrete.

www.structural.net

Services
Load Testing and Strength Evaluation
q

A key feature of a RapidLoad test is the ability

to progressively expose a structural member to
loading-unloading cycles.

Beam response measured during a load test.

tructural Group provides full scale load

testing services, including conventional
and non-destructive techniques such as
RapidLoad testing to evaluate performance
of structural elements.

The key feature of RapidLoad testing is

the use of hydraulic jacks placed at strategic
locations to induce internal forces equivalent
to those resulting from any load condition,
which are commonly created by distributed
loads. RapidLoad has the ability to progressively expose a structural
member to loading/unloading cycles. The RapidLoad method allows for
better control of the applied load as well as an ability to maintain a strict
control of structural safety. Key information such as loads, strains and
deformations are obtained during the testing and are used to determine
response parameters that are key to structural assessment. In comparison
with typical load testing methods, RapidLoad is faster, safer, more
economic and more conclusive.

PHOTO DESCRIPTIONS:
1 Monitoring and data acquisition during RapidLoad Test of a post-tensioned slab
2 Verification of FRP composite strengthening using RapidLoad Testing
3 Precast parking structure tested after FRP composite strengthening application

Products
Services

Tstrata Floor Strengthening Systems

r

strata systems are engineered flooring

solutions designed for quick installation
over existing concrete floors. By utilizing a
unique UV-curing process for rapid installation,
Tstrata systems are used to strengthen existing
floors without the operational disruption
normally associated with conventional concrete
floor repairs. With no VOCs or HAPs, all systems
feature a slip and chemical resistant surface
that is easy to clean and maintain. An optional
Static Dissipative (SD) feature can be added
to any Tstrata flooring system. Tstrata systems are also available with
Hardwire Steel Reinforcement (see next page) for increased tensile strength
with minimal thickness. Engineered and installed by Structural Preservation
Systems (SPS), Tstrata is a perfect system for aging or deteriorated concrete
flooring in industrial warehousing, manufacturing or commercial facilities.

Features and Benefits:

Tensile Reinforced
! Quick Turnaround Installation
! Rapid UV-Cure Polymers
! Chemical Resistant
! Slip Resistant
! No VOCs or HAPs
! Seamless Surface
! Easy to Clean and Maintain
! Engineered Flooring System
!

PHOTO DESCRIPTIONS:
4 Surface preparation of existing floor
5 Cracks filled and primer coating applied
6 Placement of Hardwire Steel Reinforcement in two directions
7 Placement of fill coat over Hardwire Steel Reinforcement
8 UV system cures floors instantaneously
9 Finished product available in a variety of color combinations

www.structural.net

Near surface mounted (NSM) V-Wrap Carbon FRP rods

Hardwire Steel Reinforcement used to strengthen timber structural member

V-Wrap Carbon FRP plates mounted to underside of slab

Hardwire Steel
Reinforced Composites

V-Wrap
Carbon FRP Rod

Hardwire is a
TENSILE STRENGTH:
450 ksi
family of composite
TENSILE MODULUS:
30 x 106 psi
reinforcements
ULTIMATE RUPTURE STRAIN:
2.0%
made from ultrahigh strength
twisted steel wires woven into a durable fabric.
When encapsulated in resin, Hardwire forms a high
strength reinforcing laminate for structural upgrades
of beams and elevated slabs, as well as blast and
ballistic upgrades of structures. The finished
reinforcement adds nominal weight and thickness to
the structure, while providing reinforcement greater
than a typical steel plate.

The V-Wrap
TENSILE STRENGTH:
250 ksi
Carbon FRP Rod
TENSILE MODULUS: 18,000-20,000 ksi
is an effective
ULTIMATE RUPTURE STRAIN:
1.5%
supplemental
reinforcement
system allowing for flexural upgrade of beams and
slab reinforcement near surface level without costly
and disruptive tear-out and replacement of concrete.
The rods are durable and non-corrosive, providing
a long-lasting, cost-effective solution for adding
strength to concrete.

Products

FRP Composite Strengthening Systems

Placement of V-Wrap Carbon FRP sheet to joists

V-Wrap
Carbon FRP Plate

V-Wrap
Carbon/E-Glass FRP Sheet

Constructed with
TENSILE STRENGTH:
350 ksi
durable, nonTENSILE MODULUS:
19 psi/106
corrosive, high
ULTIMATE RUPTURE STRAIN: 0.0187%
strength carbon
fiber material, the
V-Wrap Carbon FRP Plate provides a more practical
and cost-effective solution than traditional steel
plates. The lightweight and high tensile strength of
the V-Wrap Carbon FRP Plate allows for structural
upgrades of damaged or deteriorated members
without significantly altering the appearance of the
member.

V-Wrap Sheets
TENSILE STRENGTH:
3.57 kips/in/ply
are designed for
TENSILE MODULUS:
33,000 ksi
upgrading the load1.5%
carrying capacities ULTIMATE RUPTURE STRAIN:
of concrete,
masonry and timber elements. When encapsulated
in resin, the fabrics form a high strength laminate.
The installed product is lightweight, durable, noncorrosive and compatible with architectural finishes
to conceal the reinforcement. The material can be
formed around complex shapes easily, without adding
significant weight or thickness to the structure.
V-Wrap Carbon and E-Glass FRP systems can be
protected to provide ASTM E-84/E-119 Fire Ratings.

www.structural.net

Unbonded monostrand prior to concrete placement

VStrand heat resistive tendons featuring intumescent coating

High-Damping Rubber
Rubber
Damper

Rubber damper system installed on bridge

VStrand Heat Resistive Tendons

7-Wire
Strand

Grease
Coating

25 Mil Intumescent
Fire Retardant Coating

Sumitomo Rubber Industries High-Damping Rubber,

offered in the United States by VSL, is incorporated
into engineered rubber damping systems. The original
system was developed for cable-stay bridges, but has
been successfully incorporated into other structures.
The damper systems offer high energy absorption and
can suppress a variety of vibrations including seismic,
wind, mechanical and wave action. While offering
universal applications for new and retrofit projects, it
remains an easily maintained, sustainable and cost
efficient system.

Polyethylene
Sheathing

Reinforcing
Mesh

40 Mil
Polyethylene
Sheathing

VSLs innovative heat resistive tendons, VStrand,

have been developed to mitigate the detrimental
thermal effects of a fire on the strength of the
prestressing steel. These tendons are specially
designed to promote fire protection for strengthening
systems used in bridges, parking garages, and other
structures where the risk of a potential fire is a
concern.

Products

Post-Tensioning Systems

Bonded Multistrand System

Unbonded Monostrand Systems

Bonded Multistrand Systems

Anchor Head

Sleeve

Monostrand

Trumpet

Duct Coupler

Anchorage
Grease-filled
Closure Cap

VSL Monostrand Systems are coated with grease

as a permanent corrosion inhibitor and sheathed
in extruded plastic to provide double corrosion
protection, as well as prevent any bonding between the
strands and the surrounding concrete. In aggressive
environments, special sleeves are used to join the
sheaths to the anchorages, and each anchorage
includes a protective cap. Available in diameters of
1/2-inch (13mm) and 3/5-inch (15mm), these light,
flexible monostrands can be easily and rapidly
installed.

Bearing Plate
Permanent Grout Cap

VSL Bonded Multistrand Systems, used typically in

bridges and transportation structures, have been
successfully installed by VSL in commercial building
construction and retrofit. A single multistrand tendon
can hold up to 55 strands that are encased in HDPE
plastic or steel duct and then encapsulated using a high
performance grout. Design advantages of VSL Bonded
Multistrand Systems used for large structural elements
include increased span lengths and load-carrying
capacity, as well as reduced column congestion,
allowing for more open spaces and design freedom.

www.structural.net

About Structural Group

Structural Group delivers the services, products, systems and technologies that
build, repair, protect, strengthen and reinforce concrete, steel, masonry, wood
and soils. Founded in 1976, weve evolved today into a growing organization
of four dynamic and diversified companies with over 2,000 people working
together from operating centers across the world.
Our businesses perform on a wide range of projects involving commercial
properties, industrial facilities, energy plants and public infrastructure.
Whether a project is driven by budget, schedule, service life or solving a
unique structural challenge, we utilize field-proven techniques, innovative
technologies and strong industry partnerships that ultimately bring our
clients results that exceed their expectations.
T H E S T R U C T U R A L G R O U P C O M PA N I E S

Our Mission

We are committed to
Developing our people

Enhancing the value of

our customers properties

Improving and growing the

organization and its profitability

Advancing our industries

We accomplish this by
Communicating ideas
and understandings

Developing technology

Specialty Repair
Contracting Services
Concrete Repair
Waterproofing
Structural Strengthening
Building Envelope Repair
Historic Restoration
Geotechnical Services

Engineered Solutions for

Corrosion & Water Intrusion
Galvanic & Impressed Current
Cathodic Protection Systems
Power Supplies &
Monitoring Equipment
EOP Dewatering System

Implementing solutions

Our Operating Principles

www.spsrepair.com

Be positively focused in all

situations and interactions,
turn every problem into an
opportunity

Safety: Know it, live it

Engage your team

Celebrate successes with

your team often

www.electrotechcp.com

Solutions are found

within your team

Encourage improvement

Plan and execute

Chimney, Stack
& Silo Services
Engineering
Construction
Retrofits & Alterations
Demolition
Repair & Maintenance

Success is in the details

Continually challenge your

team to excel

www.pullmanpower.com

Hire people for the right

qualities

Give without expecting

anything in return

Post-Tensioning & Specialty

Reinforcement Systems
Post-Tensioning Systems
Shear Reinforcement
Stay Cable Systems
Form Travelers
Heavy Lifting
Strengthening Products

Leadership is all around us

Exceed your customers

expectations

Learn and teach

www.vsl.net

See and be seen

www.structural.net

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
800-899-1016
7455 NEW RIDGE ROAD, SUITE T
HANOVER, MARYLAND 21076

www.structural.net
info@structural.net

SPS U.S. OPERATIONS

888-901-7218

SPS ASIA OPERATIONS

65 6559 12 22

SINGAPORE

BALTIMORE
BATON ROUGE
CHICAGO
DETROIT
FT. LAUDERDALE
GREEN BAY
HARTFORD
HOUSTON
LAKE CHARLES
LONG ISLAND
LOS ANGELES
NEW YORK
SARASOTA
WASHINGTON, DC

SPS GEOSTRUCTURAL DIVISION

800-966-9856
NEW YORK

VSL OPERATIONS
888-489-2687

ATLANTA
CINCINNATI
DALLAS
DENVER
FT. LAUDERDALE
WASHINGTON, DC

American
Concrete Institute

International Concrete
Repair Institute

American Society of
Concrete Contractors

Post-Tensioning
Institute

Sealant, Waterproofing
& Restoration Institute

American Segmental
Bridge Institute

SUSTAINING MEMBER

FOUNDING MEMBER

MEMBER

FOUNDING MEMBER

MEMBER

FOUNDING MEMBER

RapidLoad and Tstrata are registered trademarks of Structural Group, Inc. VSLAB+ and VStrand are registered trademarks of VStructural, LLC Hardwire is a registered trademark of Hardwire, LLC
SG_STR V2 08/2008 5M