Prestressing Steel Strand

Product Composition & Grades

Low-Relaxation Strand ASTM A416 Grade 270 / BS 5896 Class 2

This is the modern standard for most applications. It undergoes a specialized thermal-mechanical treatment that results in minimal loss of pre-stress over time. It is the preferred choice for virtually all applications including bridges, buildings, and slabs due to its long-term economic and performance benefits.

Stress-Relieved Strand ASTM A416 Grade 250 / BS 5896 Class 1

This traditional type undergoes a simple heat treatment to relieve stresses. It has higher relaxation losses and is largely superseded by low-relaxation strand but may be specified in some older standards or less critical applications.

Epoxy-Coated (Fusion-Bonded) Strand

The steel strand is coated with a layer of epoxy powder for enhanced corrosion protection. It is used in aggressive environments such as highway bridges exposed to de-icing salts, marine structures, and coastal buildings.

Galvanized Strand

The strand is hot-dip galvanized (zinc-coated) for robust corrosion resistance. It is specified for applications where long-term exposure to corrosive elements is expected and where the structure is directly exposed, such as in cable-stayed bridges or tie-backs.

Uncoated Strand

This is the standard, bare strand. It is used in protected environments or when the concrete cover is sufficient to prevent corrosion, such as in indoor building beams or slabs.