This paper shows the simplified equation to predict the ultimate moment capacity and corresponding rod stress in reinforced concrete beam with external post-tensioning rods. Because the stress of external post-tensioning rod depends on the beam deflection, the previous analytical model for post-tensioned beams requires a tedious iteration process. Also, the stress equations in ACI code or other researchers’ models are suitable only for internal tendons in concrete beams. In this study, given the lack of analytical approaches to predict the nominal stress of the external unbonded rod, a simple and robust equation has been proposed for externally post-tensioned concrete beams. It is concluded that the proposed equation predicted the stress of external steel rods in post-tensioned concrete beams reasonably well.

Existing approaches on flexural analysis of unbonded post-tensioned concrete beams are very difficult to be applied to estimation of service load behavior up to failure. In this study, theorectical flexural behavior model for post-tensioned members with unbonded tendons was, therefore, proposed based on the basic concept of idealization of curvature distribution within maximum moment region in a simple manner, which was previously developed by authors. The proposed model can predict the service load behavior as well as ultimate strength, and it is confirmed that this concept can be extended to estimate the flexural behavior of continuous unbonded post-tensioned members.