MEETING NEWS

ASBA and PTI Join Forces on Post-Tensioned Concrete Workshop

ASBA continues to offer ways for industry members to enrich their knowledge. In early February, the Association worked with the Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI) to co-host the inaugural Post-Tensioned Concrete Workshop. The two-day event, held at the Doubletree Dallas Market Center, attracted 90 attendees.

The workshop was presented by Tim Christle, P.E. Director of PTI’s Technical, Education and Promotion Programs. It covered the installation and inspection of single strand unbonded post-tensioning (PT) systems for residential and light commercial slabs-onground. Topics included in the workshop were an introduction to PT fundamentals and systems, properties of prestressing steel, construction documents, installation practices, stressing operations and tendon finishing.

PT concrete has become increasingly popular in sports installations, thanks to its strength and resistance to cracking, making it an especially desirable option among owners seeking a durable and stable base that stands up to athletic use and provides years of useful life.

In addition to providing essential knowledge, the workshop offered eight recertification points for ASBA Certified Builders and 12 points for licensed professional engineers.

Additionally, the workshop had benefits to attendees who already qualified with the PTI as Level 1 and 2 Slab-on-Ground Installer & Inspectors. Those with Level 1 Certification were encouraged to attend the workshop for review of all materials, and for the opportunity to re-test for a higher score. Those scoring 80% or higher could submit a field work affidavit showing experience necessary for Level 2 certification.

A high percentage of attendees passed the exams and attained their Level 1 and 2 certification. ASBA received feedback that participants would have liked the workshop to be more sports-surface specific; as a result, the Association is working with the Post-Tensioning Institute to try to develop a more sports-surface specific workshop that might be scheduled in Houston prior to the Technical Meeting in December. More details will be released as they become available. ★