Professional Documents
Culture Documents
The Practice of
Warping Double Tees
Paul Mack, P.E., FPCI This paper presents the results of a study of
Rocky Mountain Prestress
Denver, Colorado warping (twisting) in precast concrete double tees
and draws conclusions on what is being
successfully done within the industry to minimize
or eliminate longitudinal cracking through decks
due to warping. Conclusions are given based on
the results of an industry survey, an assessment of
torsion parameters, theoretical calculation of
cracking point, and empirical data from plant
controlled testing and field experiences. Data are
presented for field-topped tees and pretopped tees
Gregory Force, P.E., FPCI of various lengths and widths. Recommendations
Vice President and General Manager are given on the best practice to follow in
Tindall Corporation controlling warping in double tees.
Petersburg, Virginia
Charles Magneslo ouble tees are perhaps the most widely used mem
Vice President
JVI, Inc.
Lincoinwood, Illinois
D ber in the precast, prestressed concrete industry (see
Fig. 1). In general, double tees have performed ex
tremely well over the past 50 years. However, occasion
ally, a double tee may experience longitudinal cracks at the
interface of stem and deck elements. The cracks may range
in length from 5 to 30 percent of the tee length.
Under close scrutiny, these cracks appear to develop on
top of the deck on one stem and on the underside of the
other stem. The cause and significance related to long-term
performance of double tees experiencing these cracks have
not been universally agreed upon within the industry. Nev
ertheless, one purpose of this paper is to bring all available
Kp Bryan, RE. knowledge on this subject together so that a consensus can
Project Manager be reached.
FDG, Inc. A PCI committee report in the January-February 1983
Arvada, Colorado 1 states that the cause of longitudinal cracks
PCI JOURNAL
32 PCI JOURNAL
is generally warping or twisting that no repair is necessary unless for cos guarantee that adhering to these rec
has been imposed on the double tee metic reasons. ommendations will entirely eliminate
member. A pretopped tee (one in which the the condition, but it should be borne in
The most common occurrence of entire deck is cast monolithically with mind that concrete cracking is not un
warping is on decks of parking struc the tee stems during manufacture) ex usual and that not all cracks necessi
tures. Therefore, many discussions in periencing cracks may need remedial tate remedial action.
this paper are directed toward this ap attention after the tee is erected, de The first three bulleted items identi
plication. In general, cracking is pending on the crack width and loca fied as causes of longitudinal cracking
caused by: tion. If water penetration is a concern, are generally unpredicted, but the
• Twisting that occurs when the tee is a wide range of weather resistant ma fourth is an intentional design condi
stripped (removed) from its casting terials is available to fill and seal the tion wherein twisting and warping is
bed (e.g., uneven lifting during cracks, such as epoxies, caulking ma known to occur. To achieve durability
stripping from binding in the form, terials, and other sealants. in parking structures, one of the most
uneven sling lengths, or use of two This paper presents the results and important recommendations made in
cranes). conclusions of a study of warping the American Concrete Institute publi
• Racking from improper storage in (twisting) in double tees. Conclusions cation ACI 362.1R-97
2 is to slope
the manufacturing plant storage are based on the results and dissemi decks in order to drain water from the
yard (e.g., dunnage placed on soft or nation of an industry survey, theoreti deck surface.*
uneven ground). cal calculation of cracking point and While direct rain or snow may not
• Twisting during handling or hauling torsion parameters of the cross sec enter all areas of a parking structure,
(e.g., a trailer running over a curb). tion, and empirical data extracted wind blown rain and/or vehicles carry
• Torsion being a condition of the de from plant controlled testing and field ing ice/slush/water will distribute
sign (geometry) of the structure observations. Data are presented for
containing the erected tee (e.g., field-topped tees and pretopped tees of
sloped/warped for drainage in a various lengths. * Other components of durability include
(1) low
parking structure). Note that double tees may crack water-cementitious material ratios (0.40 or less), (2) air
2 percent, 11/2 percent tolerance),
entrained concrete (6V
Typically, this type of crack is non- even if the guidelines presented here (3) coffosion inhibiting admixtures, (4) good cornice
structural and has a negligible effect are followed closely. Recommenda tions, (5) high quality joint sealants, (6) cover over re
on the load carrying capacity of the tions provided in this article, there inforcement of 1/2 to 2 in. (38 to 51 mm), and (7) a
well-planned maintenance program. Other less effec
tee. If the tee is covered with a com fore, should be considered with engi tive measures like surface scalers and traffic bearing
posite concrete topping (field-topped), neering judgment. There is no membranes are sometimes employed.
January-February 2003 33
made about the flexibility of the mem
bers. A sketch indicates how a typical
bay of a parking structure could be
sloped for drainage, but warping is not
Amount of warping shown.
displacement jAJ Cross-bay drainage is achieved by
i lowering one end of the double tee
members. Transverse drainage is typi
cally achieved by one of three meth
Fig. 2. Warping of double tee section. ods:
1. Pitching the supporting girder or
spandrel at the low end only.
water throughout the facility. If the to the direction of the main slope) is
2. Sloping the structural topping.
water is contaminated with salts from limited to about 1 percent or even
3. Pitching both the high and low
deicing materials or other sources, less. If a traffic membrane is used, 1
ends of the member by using sloped
corrosion of reinforcement may be ac percent slopes are acceptable, but 2
ledges, variable dap depths in the dou
celerated due to chloride penetration. percent slopes are still preferable.”
ble tee stems, corbels at varying
As a result, the life of the structure 3. Guide for the Design of Durable
heights on the supporting spandrel,
may be shortened. Parking Structures, ACT 362.1R-97:
2
and/or sloping of the entire supporting
Frequent floor wash-downs that are “A minimum slope in any direction
element.
part of a maintenance program are of 11/2 percent is recommended with
The cause of warping (twisting) in
also a source of water throughout the 2 percent being preferred.”
double tee members in situ is due to
facility. If the floor is not adequately 4. Parking, ENO Foundation for
transverse floor slopes (Method No.
sloped for proper drainage, pools of 5
Transportation:
1). Many times the other two methods
water or sheets of ice can form, pro “Storage floors of cast-in-place
are neither practical nor cost effective.
moting the potential for deterioration floor garages should be sloped
Sloping the field placed topping adds
of the concrete slab due to freeze-thaw about 2 percent (approximately 1/4
cost for the additional concrete and its
cycles. If a floor is to be sloped, how in. per ft). Precision manufactured
weight can require more prestressing
much slope is necessary? Parking in (and installed) precast floors can
force (usually, more strands), thereby
dustry guidelines are cited in the fol provide positive drainage with 1
adding even more cost to the project.
lowing paragraphs. percent (approximately 1/8 in. per ft)
Using sloped ledges, varying height
slopes, although some designers
daps, or placing corbels at varying
Floor Slope Recommendations prefer a 2 percent slope.”
—
heights on the face of the spandrel all
Standard References 5. Parking Structures, Planning, De
require particular attention to engi
sign, Construction, Maintenance and
Recommendations on the amount of neering detailing and to setup within
Repair, Third Edition:
6
slope necessary to drain a floor has the form so as to ensure proper orien
“For drainage, the absolute mini
been based mainly upon experience. tation and dimension. Higher material,
mum slope should be 1/8 in. per ft or
Many references on the subject are labor and forming costs are intro
about 1 percent preferred slope is
available, and the following excerpts duced. It should also be noted that aes
u16 in. per ft or about 1/2 percent.”
are taken from the most often cited thetic considerations often preclude
6. The Parking Professional, May
sources: utilization of sloped spandrels on the
2000, “Parking Design Checklist
1. Parking Structures: Recom exterior of a parking deck.
2000”:
mended Practice for Design and Con Using varying height daps on the
“Slopes: 2 percent preferable (1 per
struction, PCI publicaton MNL-129- exterior may create a condition
cent is used typically in precast con
98: wherein the ends of the stems are visi
crete and is based on the use of
“Parking Decks should be pitched ble from the outside, which may also
quality sealer on surface and the
for draining. Slopes of 11/2 percent be objectionable. Accommodating
denser type of concrete normally as
are common with 1 percent being varying height ledges or corbels on the
sociated with precast concrete).”
the minimum acceptable field limit support spandrel may require that the
after construction tolerances are depth of the spandrel be increased by
considered.” Warping of Double Tees at least the change in elevation from
2. The Dimensions of Parking, The PCI document, Parking Struc highest to lowest stem support within
Third Edition, ULI & NPA:
4 tures: Recommended Practice for De a given span.
“The recommended slope to drains sign and Construction, MNL 129-98, This may create a problem in that
is 2 percent minimum in all direc presents a cursory discussion of warp the deck must contain a certain
tions. Normally, in precast parking ing of double tees in Chapter 4, Sec amount of open area (i.e., the space
structures, the main slope (typically tion 4.4. Mention is made of warping between the top of one spandrel and
in the span direction) is 2 percent for both pretopped and field topped the bottom of the spandrel above) on
and the cross slope (perpendicular members, and a general comment is its perimeter in order to be considered
34 PCI JOURNAL
an open parking structure. Reference Table 1. Field-topped double tees [2 in. (51 mm) average deck thickness].
should be made to the governing
model building code for specific re
Span length
Average warp (twisQ 0.068 in/ft
< 20 ft 20 to 30 ft
0.100 in./ft
J 31 to 40 ft
0.151 in.Ift 0.224 in/ft
quirements. Standard deviation 0.026 in/ft 0.035 in./ft 0.043 in/ft 0.128 in/ft
For these reasons, designers often Note: 1 ft = 0.3048 m; 1 in. = 25.4 mm.
maintain a constant elevation for the
deck surface at the exterior perimeter
of the deck and slope beams or walls Table 2. Pretopped double tees [4 in. (102 mm) average deck thickness].
on the interior gridline to achieve the
transverse slope to the drains. A twist
Span length 1 <20 ft 1
20 to 30ft 31 to 40 ft I > 50ft -
Average warp (twist) 0.076 in./ft 0.082 in./ft 0.128 in./ft 0.160 in/ft
or warp (see Fig. 2) is thereby intro
duced at the low end of the double tee.
Standard deviation
Note: 1 ft = 0.3048 m; 1 in. =
J 0.039 in./fi
25.4 mm.
0.040 in./ft 0.056 in/ft 0.074 inJft
January-February 2003 35
cause shear stresses. An analysis of
standard double tee sections subjected
to pure torsion was carried out to iso
late the effects of torsion. The com
plex interaction of stresses caused by
gravity and axial loads are not ad
dressed in this paper.
The purposes of the study were to:
(1) Compare rotational stiffness and
maximum torsion stresses for the vari
ous tee sections, and (2) Determine the
percentage of total torsion resisted by
Fig. 3. Trailer
the deck and by the stems. It was also
rocker beam
expected that computer modeling
supporting a
double tee. would reveal regions on the section
where stress concentrations are likely
to occur.
Tee sections and their properties
Table 3. Double tee geometry. were taken from Chapter 2 of the Fifth
Tee size Tee width Stem height Deck thickness Edition of the PCI Design Handbook.
9
8DT22+2 8 ft 22 in. 2 in. Field topped
-
36 PCI JOURNAL
b
ts—top
I t
ts_avg
tsbot
—
-
J
tsavg =
A =
A
2h
bi -
Fig. 4. Typical
double tee section.
the same form as the differential equa was calculated. After the volume was Table 4. Constant c based on ratio bit.
tion describing the deflection of an calculated, the torque on the double bit
elastic membrane subjected to pres tee was easily obtained by multiplying or Constant
sure. It is also analogous to the shape the volume by 2. (Ii + 2t)It avg c
of the deflected membrane. The relationship between the angle 1.0 0.141
The tangent to the membrane paral of twist and the torque is taken from 1.5 0.196
lel to the ZX-plane is equal to the pure Reference 9: 2.0 0.229
torsion shear stress acting in the Y-di 2.5 0.249
rection. The tangent to the membrane 3.0 L 0.263
QL (4)
parallel to the ZY-plane is equal to the 4.0 0.281
KG
5.0 29i
torsion shear stress acting in the X-di
10.0 0.312
rection. These tangents give the fol in which
= 0.333
lowing equations: o = twist angle per unit length
1 = calculated torsion moment
M
7
T = (2) G = shear modulus of elasticity
ay K = torsion constant for section Fig. 4 shows a cross section of a typi
In Eq. (4), the only unknown quan cal double tee member.
tity is the torsion constant K. Eq. (5) gives the St. Venant’s tor
T =— (3) The second method of calculating sion constant K in terms of the thick
8x
K, using a simplified approach, is de ness (t) and width (b) for a rectangular
The volume under the elastic mem scribed in the following paragraphs. section (see Reference 9):
brane is exactly equal to one-half of
the applied torsion moment. The
derivation of Eqs. (1), (2) and (3) is
beyond the scope of this paper; how
ever, it can be found in most advanced
mechanics of materials textbooks.
A fine mesh size [0.10 in. (2.54
mm)] was utilized so that stress con
centrations could be discerned. This
resulted in solving more than 125,000
equations for the larger tee cross sec
tions. Stresses and bending moments
were numerically integrated over the
C
cross section to check equilibrium re
quirements and the accuracy of each
model.
As a verification, twist angles and
stresses were also checked and found
to be within 1 percent of known closed
form solutions for elliptical, triangular
and rectangular cross sections. Once Double Tee Size
the computer program had generated
the membrane surface, the volume Fig. 5. Torsion stiffness vs. double tee size with 30 in. (762 mm) stem depth.
January-February 2003 37
KDeck = 3
b
1
c t (6)
22” Stem 26” Stem 32” Stem
Ktem = c
(
2 h + 2t)(ts
avg)
3 (7)
C
Ksjmpie Kieci + 2
Ktem (8)
Fig. 7. Contribution of stems to torsion stiffness for 4 in. (102 mm) deck. A = (0.000023)(10)(12)(60)(12)
= 1.987 in. (50.5 mm)
K = cbt
3 (5) tively. The contribution of the stems to Tables 5 and 6 show the results of
the total torsion constant K was modi the analysis for 8, 10 and 12 ft (2.44,
In this equation, c is a constant fied by adding two times the deck 3.05 and 3.66 m) wide double tees.
whose value depends on the bit ratio thickness to the length. Column (2) lists the theoretical
as shown in Table 4. The reason for this modification will twisting moment M 1 needed to cause
Table 4 gives the values for the con be discussed later. By doing so, the the assumed angle of twist.
stant c for corresponding bit ratios. simplified value of K matched the Column (3) lists the torsion stiffness
Double tee sections are subdivided more accurate value from the finite constant K calculated by Eq. (4).
into three rectangular sections, two difference method. The torsion contri Column (4) lists the K calculated by
stems and one deck. For double tees, b bution to constant K for the deck and the proposed simple method.
and t are the long and short sides of the stems are calculated using the fol Column (5) shows the margin of
the deck and stem rectangles, respec lowing equations: error of K by using the simple method.
38 PCI JOURNAL
Table 5. Torsion stiffness of double tee members: 11/2 in. warp. C = 2006 ksi; Maximum recommended principal
tensile stress = 4Iöb = 309 psi; 0 = 0.000018 radians per in. (11/2 in. warp over 10 ft width for 60 ft span).
Double tee M actual KA, K Error KDek/KSjm t, KAf relative to
size (in.-kips) /rad)
4
(in. /rad)
4
(in. (percent) (percent) (percent) (psi) (psi) 10DT22+4 (percent)
8DT22+2 64.2 1946.9 1937.0 —0.5 12.7 87.3 199 2.57 40.5
8DT22+4 135.3 4104.4 3897.4 —5.0 49.7 50.3 258 3.33 85.3
8DT30+2 173.4 5257.9 5203.5 —1.0 4.7 95.3 238 3.07 109.3
8DT30+4 257.4 7804.8 7506.2 —3.8 25.8 74.2 314 4.05 162.2
10DT22+2 69.1 2095.4 2094.0 —0.1 14.8 85.2 205 2.65 43.6
10DT22+4 - 158.6 4810.7 4499.7 —6.5 54.0 46.0 254 3.28 100.0
10DT30+2 179.0 5428.1 5415.0 —0.2 5.7 94.3 3.27 112.8
10DT30+4 282.4 8564.9 8166.4 —4.7 29.8 70.2 309 3.99 178.0
-.
12DT26+2 -
158.2 4796.5 4842.5 1.0 7.8 92.2
---___
251 3.24 99.7
12DT26+4 276.1 8371.8 8046.5 —3.9 36.4 63.6 305 3.94 174.0
12DT30+2 181.1 5492.7 5480.4 —0.2 6.9 93.1 253 I 3.27 114.2
if
-
- --- - - - —-- -
12DT30+4 299.5 9081.7 8665.7 —4.6 33.8 66.2 309 3.99 188.8
Note; I ft = 0.3048 m; 1 in. = 25.4 ann; 1 psi =0.006895 MPa; 1 kip=4.448 kN; 1 in.-kip=0.113 kN-m.
Table 6. Torsion stiffness of double tee members: 2 in. warp. C = 2006 ksi; Maximum recommended principal
tensile stress = 4Jöö = 309 psi; 0 = 0.000023 radians per in. (2 in. warp over 10 ft width for 60 ft span).
Double tee M, actual KAC.S K Error KDkIKs,,, ,,/Ks
5
Ks
,
1 ,, tma
: KAj relative to
size (in..kips) lrad)
4
(in. /rad)
4
(in. (percent) (percent) (percent) (psi) (psi) 10DT22+4 (percent)
8DT22±2 - 82.0 1946.9 1937.0 —0.5 12.7 87.3 255 3.29 83.0
.
8DT22+4
-
172.9 4104.5 3897.4 —5.0 49.7 50.3 1I 330
- -
4.26
-____ -
175.0
8DT30+2 221.6 5258.0 5203.5 —1.0 I 4.7 95.3 I 304 3.92 224.2
. -
I - - I - -. -
8DT30+4 328.9 7804.9 7506.2 —3.8 25.8 74.2 401 5.18 332.8
10DT22+2 88.3 2095.4 — 2094.0 0.1 J 14.8 85.2 262 3.38 89.4
10DT22+4 202.7 4810.7 4499.7 —6.5 54.0 46.0 325 4.20 205.1
IODT3O+2 228.7 5428. 5415.0 —0.2 5.7 94.3 324 4.18 231.5
IODT3O+4 360.9 8564.9 8166.4 -4.7 29.8 70.2 395 5.09 250.1
12DT26+2 202.1 4796.6 4842.4 0.9 7.8 92.2 321 4.14 204.5
12DT26+4 352.8 8372.0 8046.4 =
8
.
3 36A 63.6 390 5.03 357.0
12DT30+2 231.4 5492.8 5480.4 —0.2 6.9 93.1 324 4.18 234.2
12DT30+4 382.7 9081.8 8665.7 -4.5 33.8 66.2 395 5.10 387.3
Note; I ft=0.3048 m; I in. = 25.4 mm; I psi = 0.006895 MPa; 1 kip = 4.448 leN; 1 in.-kip=0.113 kN-m.
Column (6) lists the percentage of stems and the deck (flange). For all tee sections with 2 in. (51 mm) decks
torsion moment resisted by the deck. stem heights and deck thicknesses shows that if the stem depth is held
Column (7) lists the percentage of shown in the preceding tables, the constant, the contribution of the deck
the torsion moment resisted by the two contribution of stem and deck thick decreases as the width increases.
stems. ness for a given tee width is shown. The same trend holds true for 4 in.
Column (8) lists the maximum re Fig. 5 shows the variation of the tor (102 mm) decks. The difference be
sultant torsion shear stress found any sion stiffness constant (K) for all three tween 2 and 4 in. (51 and 102 mm)
where on the cross section. double tee widths with a constant 30 decks is that for the 2 in. (51 mm)
Column (9) shows how the calcu in. (762 mm) stem depth. decks the contribution of the stems to
lated shear stresses compare to the The figure shows two interesting the total stiffness is between 85 and 95
maximum tensile stress as rec items; first, as the width of the double percent while for the 4 in. (102 mm)
ommended in ACT 31899,b0 Section tee is increased the stiffness is in decks it is between 45 and 75 percent.
11.6, Commentary. creased moderately and, second, as the Note that all of the sections in Ta
Column (10) compares the torsion deck thickness increases the stiffness bles 5 and 6 have fillets. The effect of
stiffness for each section to the increases significantly. 3 in. (76 mm) chamfers was also in
10DT22+4. The contribution of the deck in rela vestigated. Table 7 shows a compari
tion to that of the stems varies as the son of 10 ft (3.05 m) wide double tees
dimensions of the double tees change. with 3 in. (76 mm) fillets and 3 in. (76
Discussion of Results Figs. 6 and 7 show the contribution of mm) chamfers.
The torsion stiffness constant (K) of the stems to the total stiffness of the Table 7 shows that both the torsion
a double tee is dependent upon the two section. A comparison of the double constant and maximum stress for a
January-February 2003 39
Table 7. Comparison of 3 in. fillet to 3 in. chamfer for 10 ft wide double tee sections:
11/2 in. warp; G = 2006 ksi; maximum recommended principal tensile stress = 4Jöö = 309 psi;
0 = 0.000023 radians per in. (2 in. warp over 10 ft width for 60 ft span).
Double lee M, actual KA, KsI,,.,,k K Error KDk/KSjm im/Ksj,
5
K r,,,.,,/.j 15 relative to
K,
size (in.-kips) 4 per radian)
(in. 4 per radian)
(in. (percent) (percent) (percent) (psi) (psi) 10DT22+4 (percent)
I 0DT22+2
. 69.1 2095.4 2094.0 —0.1 14.8 85.2 205 2.65 43.6
3 in. fillet
10DT22+2
.
3 in. chamfer
77.3 t 2345.0 2373.7 I
1.2 13.1 86.9 309 3.98 48.7
10DT22+4
. 158.6 4810.7 4499.7 —6.5 54.0 46.0 254 3.28 100.0
in. fillet
I
‘—
10DT22+4
. . 176.3 5346.5 4823.6 —9.8 50.4 49.6 372 4.81 111.1
3 in. chamfer
IODT3O+2
. 179.0 5428.1 5415.0 —0.2 5.7 94.3 254 3.27 112.8
3 in._fillet
1ODT3O+2 —
40 PCI JOURNAL
500
• 300
0.
+
x
400
200
E g:Trendne
-*
500
400
300
r_
.._
A
from 2 to 10 in. (51 to 254 mm) were contours and vertical stem contours. It was noted that torsion stiffness in
analyzed for a few of the tees but were With the exception of the overlap creases at a much greater rate than the
found to have little impact on the mag ping stem and deck regions, the plot cross-sectional area. For instance, the
nitude of the maximum torsion ted stress functions show, as expected, torsion stiffness for a 12DT30+4 is
stresses. that the deck and stems tend to behave nearly twice that of a 1 0DT22+4. It is
The portion of deck outside of the as independent torsion resisting com also interesting to note that increasing
stems behaves much like that of long ponents. However, the classical ap the deck widths from 8 to 10 ft (2.44
thin rectangles subjected to torsion. proach of summing the stiffness of to 3.05 m), while holding the stem and
Concentric stress contours are parallel component rectangles to calculate the deck thickness constant had absolutely
to the deck surfaces with the highest torsion constant of a built-up section no effect on the maximum shear
stresses occurring on the exterior sur was found to consistently underesti stresses.
faces. The stress contours diminish to mate the theoretical stiffness. The relationship between the torsion
zero at the interior of the deck. The This behavior is caused by the in constant K and the torsion stress can
stems also reveal concentric stress creased resistance found in the over be used as a guideline for designers to
contours that are parallel to the verti lapping stem and deck regions (see assess any particular double tee cross
cal axis rather than parallel to the ta Fig. 8). A good correlation with the section for its potential for cracking.
pered sides of the tee stems. The over theoretical stiffness was found by sim By using the least squares fit theory,
lapping stem and deck regions show a ply increasing the depth of the stems the data from Tables 5 and 6 were re
smooth transition of horizontal deck by two times the deck thickness. duced to the simple curves shown in
January-February 2003 41
mm) for a 40 ft (12.2 m) tee length
1800 and 0.50 in. (12.7 mm) for a 60 ft
1600
(18.3 m) length member. Fig. 12
1400
shows the maximum stresses in the
1200
deck with respect to stem-to-stem
ioco
80O
warping. The program write-up cau
600 tions that the values chosen forfr are a
400 function of the acceptability of non
200 critical cracking.
0 The finite analysis model was also
o o.i 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 1.1 1.2 used to predict crack propagation. The
Degree 01 Warp (Stem to Stem), in analysis revealed that the crack propa
gates along the flange rather than
Fig. 12. Maximum elastic tension stresses in warped double tee flanges. through the flange. This is an impor
tant point when considering the crack
containment afforded by welded wire
Figs. 10 and 11. The first figure uses of the focus of this research was the fabric reinforcement typical in this
data for a warp of 11/2 in. (38 mm) determination of warping without type of member. For more information
across the full width of the double tee cracking of pretopped double tees regarding this study, see Reference 11.
section, while the second curve is for a with 4 in. (102 mm) thick decks
2 in. (51 mm) warp. (flanges).
Note the following assumptions: To determine the theoretical limits EMPIRICAL DATA
1. Elastic analysis assumes 3 in. (76 of warping for these members, a finite The program referred to in the pre
mm) deck/stem fillets —deck stem element analysis was performed using vious section also included full scale
chamfers tend to increase stress. a 1 in. (25.4 mm) grid mesh modeling testing of two double tee members, 10
2. Plots are for a unit twist angle of a system with three supported ele ft (3.05 m) wide by 28 in. (711 mm)
0.000018 and 0.000023 radians per in. ments (stems) and the fourth sup deep with 4 in. (102 mm) thick flanges
This is equivalent to about 1’/2 and 2 ported on a spring with a constant K. (10DT24+4). The last 2 ft (0.61 m) of
in. (38 and 51 mm) of warp fora lOft The model assumed 5 ft (1.52 m) be length at each end of the members was
(3.05 m) width over a 60 ft (18.30 m) tween the stems [10 ft (3.05 m) overall held down to a 2 in. (51 mm) thick
span for Figs. 10 and 11, respectively. width] and analyzed tee lengths of 40 ness as though a pour strip was to be
3. Plotted shear stresses are maxi and 60 ft (12.2 and 18.3 m). added in the field.
mum resultant ;. and occur on or The model varied the degree of One double tee was 47 ft (14.3 m)
near the deck/stem chamfers. warp to determine the maximum dis long and the other was 60.5 ft (18.4
4. Linear interpolation is used to placement between the stems at the m) long. Warping was induced in the
calculate Tmax for other twist angles. maximum tension stress as defined by tee by setting the tee stems on level
The three horizontal lines on Figs. the modulus of rupture for a specific shim stacks and then removing shims
10 and 11 represent stresses equal to 4, concrete. Note that ACT 31810 recom incrementally from beneath one stem.
5, or These allow the designer mends using a value of fr in the range Based on the test results, the follow
to exercise judgment as to how much of 0.1f to 0.15f. ing observations can be made:
stress is acceptable for the particular The maximum tensile stress occurs The 60.5 ft (18.4 m) long member
design conditions. in the top of the flange near the un withstood a warp of 3/4 in. (19 mm)
Stresses are sensitive to the degree warped (non-spring-supported) stem between the stems before cracking,
of warp. When the warp is 11/2 in. (38 at the end that is warped. The stress while the 47 ft (14.3 m) long mem
mm), all but one of the data points fall distribution across the flange is similar ber had a very small crack start at 5/
under the 4JI line, but when the tee to a classical bending stress distribu in. (16 mm) differential between its
is warped to 2 in. (51 mm), the tion. However, the stress distribution stems. The shorter member was dif
stresses shift to the 5J state of at the top surface is similar to that ficult to test because it tended to rise
stress. caused by a concentrated load. Once up on opposite corners as shims
the maximum tensile stress is reached, were removed.
THEORETICAL the crack length is approximately 3 in. • Cracking in the top flange pro
(76.2 mm). gressed diagonally across the flange
CALCULATION OF
For a high quality concrete with ser and the bottom cracking remained in
CRACKING POINT vice compressive strength of 6500 psi the flange to stem intersection. Fig.
An in-depth research project on the (44.8 MPa) and corresponding modu 13 shows the crack pattern devel
durability of precast, prestressed park lus of rupture of 975 psi (6.72 MPa) oped in the 60.5 (18.4 m) long
ing structures was carried out by PCI (equal to 0.1 5f’), the permissible warp member.
in 1995 by the Consulting Engineers (measured between stems) would be • The maximum crack width for 1/8
Group of San Antonio, Texas.” Part on the magnitude of 0.45 in. (11.4 in. (43 mm) differential between the
42 PCI JOURNAL
stems was 0.010 in. (0.25 mm) in
the longer member. The crack
length extended approximately 6 ft
(1.83 m) from the end of the mem
ber.
As the warping increased, cracking
occurred at the juncture of the stem
and the flange bottom for the leg
that was lowered. Cracking occurred
in the top of the flange above the
adjacent stem on the same end. No
cracking occurred at the end with
both stems at the same elevation.
• Maximum crack widths increased as
warping increased.
• Crack widths were less at the bot
tom of the flange than at the top. TOP VIEW BOTTOM VIEW
The load tests substantiated the re
sults predicted by the finite element 1) /8 in. warp no cracks lV in. warp 0.005 in. @
3) 8
study. Both studies confirmed that ob PT1 and 0.002 in. @PT3
3/4
servable cracking occurred when the 2) in. warp 0.002 in. width 4) 1/g in. warp 0.010 in. @
overall warp exceeded 11/2 in. (38 PT1 and 0.005 in. @PT3
mm).
Fig. 13. Crack pattern for 10 ft (3.05 m) wide 60.5 ft (18.4 m) long tee.
(Note: 1 in. = 25.4 mm)
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Results are summarized for the in
dustry survey and theoretical analysis. ing deck applications for over twenty value than double tees with 4 in. (102
years, special procedures for handling mm) decks. By looking at the stiffness
these members have been developed. of a 1ODT3O+2 and 1ODT3O+4 it is
Industry Survey One of the methods successfully seen that the contribution of the stems
Industry practice and associated ex used by several precast concrete manu Ktem remains constant and the contri
perience gained therefrom indicate facturers involves using a specially de bution of the deck KDeCk changes.
that warping of twin stemmed tee signed rocker beam, which was dis • In general, the stems contribute
members in parking structures is not cussed earlier in the paper (see Fig. more to the total stiffness than the
only ongoing, but also commonplace 14). Other precautions include provid deck.
in order to create transverse slopes. ing adequate jobsite access for delivery As the ratio of the area of the stems
When double tees are to be warped, all trucks because the jobsite typically has to the total area of the double tee in
parties should be well informed re the worst terrain encountered en route. creases so does the ratio of the stiff
garding the potential for cracks in the ness of the stems to the total stiffness.
members. • At the junction of the tee stems and
The study indicates that a 60 ft (18.3 Theoretical Analysis the deck, chamfers cause higher
m) long double tee element can be The following is a list and discus stress concentrations in the double
twisted to the amounts shown in Tables sion of the conclusions that can be tees than do fillets.
1 and 2 without cracking. Warping to drawn from the theoretical analysis. The relationship between the torsion
produce floor slopes of about 11/4 per Narrower tees have a lower torsion stiffness, K, and the maximum stresses
cent is routinely done within the indus stiffness constant (K) than wider is not evident from the analysis. How
try with no cracking, and as much as tees. ever, it is clear that the use of cham
21/2 percent with minor cracking. Results from both the finite differ fers rather than fillets affects the maxi
As previously stated, not all flange ence method and simplified method mum torsion stress much more than it
cracking is attributable to the in-place confirm that as the width of the deck affects the torsion constant (K).
condition of the tee. Stripping, han decreases, the torsion constant K also • Results confirm that the simplified
dling, and, probably most significantly, decreases. method for calculating the torsion
hauling the product to the jobsite in Double tees with 2 in. (51 mm) constant K is quite accurate when
duce torsion stresses in the element. decks are more flexible than those compared to the classical solution.
Because prestressed concrete produc with 4 in. (102 mm) decks. The torsion constant calculated by
ers have been facing the challenge of By reviewing Tables 5 and 6, it is the simplified method differs from the
manufacturing plant-cast 4 in. (102 seen that double tees with 2 in. (51 more accurate method by only 21/2 per
mm) thick flange double tees for park- mm) decks have a much lower K cent on average for all cross sections.
January-February 2003 43
why proper drainage is imperative in
the design of the deck.
3. The information contained herein
is informational and not a directive for
warping double tee elements. Individ
ual owners and producers need to es
tablish what they are willing to accept
regarding the amount double tees
should be warped. Also, cracks in
double tee elements can originate from
other sources such as shipping and
handling.
Fig. 14. Trailer rocker beam supporting a double tee. Needs for Future Study
This article presents a comprehen
sive analysis of double tee sections
• A relationship exists between the 1. Double tees have an inherent subjected to torsion only. It excludes
torsion constant and the torsion ability to sustain a certain amount of other stress combinations. Prestress
stress. twist, thereby providing the designer forces and flexure cause tension and
As a tee becomes stiffer, the stress two-way slope capability utilizing ei compression stresses, while shear
developed in the cross section in ther field-topped or pretopped ele stresses are caused by flexure and tor
creases. The degree of warp greatly ments. While surface cracking can be sion. The complex interaction of grav
affects the state of torsion stress in the controlled, it should be noted that ity and axial loads are not addressed
double tee. For standard tees (as con most surface cracks require no further here. Further analysis taking these fac
tained in the PCI Design Handbook
),
8 remedial action than to be covered tors into account will help verify the
stresses are less than 4’Z when the with a sealer to prevent water penetra results derived from the torsion only
warp is 11/2 in. (38 mm), but stresses tion. The double tee cast in factory model or may give new information
rise to about 5/ when the warp is controlled conditions with high per regarding the initiation of cracking at
increased to 2 in. (102 mm). formance concrete is one of the best the interface of the stem and the flange
• Curves were developed to aid de tools in the designer’s arsenal for high as influenced by member geometry
signers in evaluating torsion cracks quality, cost effective parking deck and applied loads.
in typical double tee sections. construction. Key aspects of high per Controlled member testing could be
Using simple equations, a designer formance concrete are low water done to provide actual data that could
can calculate the torsion stiffness of a cementitious material ratio (< 0.40), be used to expand the knowledge of
double tee shape and enter a curve to high strength [>6000 psi (41.4 MPa)], double tee warping. A prescribed
determine the state of torsion stress and sufficient air entrainment (6’/2 method of testing and results docu
that will be induced in the tee when it percent ± 1 ‘/2 percent). mentation could be prepared to assist
is warped. 2. It should not be assumed that the those willing to do the tests and thus
• Lightweight concrete double tees presence of a crack in the top surface create a database for empirically de
are less flexible than normal weight of a double tee flange is cause for rived warping limits. As of this writ
tees. structural or long-term durability con ing, one producer is performing tests
The shear modulus (G) for cern. Reports issued by ACI, PCI, and to determine the relation between
lightweight concrete is smaller than others within the industry indicate that member width and the initiation of
that for nonnal weight concrete. Look cracking on the magnitude of 0.0 15 in. torsion cracking, as well as the impli
ing at Eq. (4), if M, and 0 are held (0.38 mm) wide or less is generally in cations of a “starter” crack to the de
constant, as G decreases K increases. significant. The depth of the crack, velopment of torsion cracks. This
This combined with the fact that when compared to the depth of rein study will be made available to PCI
lightweight concrete cracks at lower forcement (as opposed to cracking in upon completion.
stresses than normal weight concrete line with the reinforcement), is not Closer scrutiny of product through
means that double tees constructed of typically cause for concern. The na its various cycles (i.e., production, cut
lightweight concrete are more suscep ture of the cracking described earlier ting of strand, stripping, storage, ship
tible to warping cracks. in this paper falls into that category. ping, and erection) will expand the ex
The significance of a crack in the sur perience database and provide better
face becomes more pronounced when correlation of theoretical and observed
CONCLUSIONS that crack occurs in an area where performance of warped double tees. A
Based on the results of this study, there is ponded water, perhaps con number of producers are actively col
the following conclusions can be taminated with chloride ions that lead lecting this information. A central
drawn: to corrosion of reinforcement. This is database would be helpful in assessing
44 PCI JOURNAL
where cracking is most likely to occur project. They are Bob Corry, Tom methodology in integrating graphic re
based on the highest number of obser D’Arcy, John Garlich, Degan Ham sults into custom AutoCAD drawings
vations available. bacher, Roger Kaness, Joe Miller, and made concepts and data presentations
Leo Whiteley. much easier to read and understand.
Particular thanks go to John Hanlon The authors are also appreciative of
ACKNOWLEDGMENT for his understanding and application the excellent technical contributions
The authors are grateful to the of numerical methods and advanced made by the PCI JOURNAL review
many individuals who contributed mathematics used to develop a ratio ers. They are Alex Aswad, Ken Baur,
technical comments and guidance nal method to determine torsion stiff Suresh Gami, Walter Korkosz, George
throughout the various stages of this ness. His computer modeling and Nasser, and Kim Seeber.
REFERENCES
1. PCI Committee on Quality Control Performance Criteria, Maintenance and Repair, Third Edition, Chapter 12, Section
“Fabrication and Shipment Cracks in Prestressed Hollow-Core 12.2.3.2, Drainage, Kiuwer Academic Publishers, Boston/Dor
Slabs and Double Tees,” PCI JOURNAL, V. 28, No. 1, Jan drecht/London.
uary-February 1983, pp. 18-39. 7. Lew, I. P., Gutman, A., Hoffman, R. G., “Parking Design
2. ACI Committee 362, “Guide for the Design of Durable Park Checklist 2000,” The Parking Professional, May 2000, 25 pp.
ing Structures (ACI 362.1R-97),” Section 3.1 Drainage, Amer 8. PCi Design Handbook — Precast and Prestressed Concrete,
ican Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1997. Fifth Edition, Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute, Chicago,
3. Parking Structures: Recommended Practice for Design and IL, 1999.
Construction, MNL-129-98, Chapter 4, Section 4.4.1 Slope, 9. Ugural, A. C., and Fenster, S. K., Advanced Strength and Ap
PrecastlPrestressed Concrete Institute, Chicago, IL, 1997, pp. plied Elasticity, Chapter 1 and 2, Elsevier North-Holland Pub
4-16. lishing Company, Inc., 1977.
4. The Dimensions of Parking, Third Edition, Chapter 18, 10. ACI Committee 318, “Building Code Requirements for Struc
Drainage, ULI-the Urban Land Institute & NPA-the National tural Concrete (318-99) and Commentary (31 8R-99),” Ameri
Parking Association, Washington, DC, 1993. can Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1999.
5. Weant, R. A., and Levinson, H. S. (Editors), Parking, Chapter 11. PCI Research and Development Committee, Durability of Pre
9, Garage Design, ENO Foundation for Transportation, Inc., cast Prestressed Concrete Structures, Prepared by the Consult
Westport, CT, 1990. ing Engineers Group, Inc. for the Precast/Prestressed Concrete
6. Chrest, A. P., Smith, M. S., Bhuyan, S., Monahan, D. R., and Institute, Chicago, IL, 1995.
Iqbal, M., Parking Structures: Planning, Design, Construction,
January-February 2003 45
APPENDIX A — NOTATION
b long side of deck rectangle
= M = calculated torsion moment
c constant whose value depends on bit ratio
= t = short side of stem rectangle
E = modulus of elasticity T = tangent to membrane parallel to ZX plane
f = specified compressive strength of concrete Tz), = tangent to membrane parallel to ZY plane
fr = modulus of rupture of concrete = vertical warp
G = shear modulus of elasticity = function of orthogonal coordinates X and Y
H =-2G0 = Poisson’s ratio
K = torsion constant for section B = twist angle per unit length
KDeck = torsion contribution to constant K for deck = torsional stress in XZ plane
Ktem = torsion contribution to constant K for stem = torsional stress in YZ plane
Ksjmpie torsion constant for complete double tee section Tmax = maximum torsional stress
46 PCI JOURNAL
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