Optimum Design of Partially Prestressed Concrete Beams

The research presents a formulation for optimum design of partially prestressed concrete beams based on elastic analysis. The optimum design is selected to satisfy the limitations of ACI-Code 2014. The objective function is the cost of the beam. The design variables are the cross-sectional dimensions, the area of strands, and the additional ordinary reinforcement area used. The constraints represent inequality limitations on stresses, ultimate strength capacity, shear, deflection, and practical considerations according to the design requirements. The optimization problem is formulated for several sections like, rectangular, symmetrical I-, T-, and unsymmetrical I-section. The formulation of the optimization problem has been made by utilizing the sequential unconstrained minimization technique (SUMT). The procedure could be used practically by structural engineers.