ADAPT PT/RC 23: The Expert System for Post-Tensioned & Reinforced Concrete Design
ADAPT PT/RC 23 is a sophisticated, industry-specialized software for the analysis and design of post-tensioned (PT) and reinforced concrete floor systems, beams, and foundations. It is the preferred tool for structural engineers designing commercial buildings, parking structures, and residential towers where the efficiency and serviceability advantages of post-tensioning are critical. The software provides an integrated environment to model, analyze, design, and detail concrete structures according to ACI 318 and other international building codes.
Core Function: Integrated Workflow for Concrete Floor Systems
The software’s primary strength is its ability to handle the unique complexities of post-tensioned design—such as calculating time-dependent losses (elastic shortening, creep, shrinkage, relaxation), balancing loads, and determining tendon profiles—within the same model used for ultimate strength and serviceability checks. It seamlessly combines PT and rebar design in one analysis.
Key Analysis & Design Capabilities:
1. Modeling of PT & Reinforced Concrete Systems
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Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Uses a powerful FEA engine to model floor slabs (one-way, two-way, flat plates, beams) and calculate realistic distributions of moments, shears, and deflections under complex loading.
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Tendon Layout & Profile Definition: Intuitive tools for laying out draped or straight PT tendon profiles within the 3D model and defining material properties.
2. Comprehensive Design & Code Checking
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Serviceability Design: Performs critical serviceability checks for deflections (immediate and long-term) and stresses under service loads to ensure crack control and floor flatness.
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Ultimate Strength Design: Checks flexural and shear capacities at ultimate load, designing the required combination of post-tensioning and mild reinforcement (rebar).
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Punching Shear Design: Detailed analysis and design of slab-column connections for punching shear, including the contribution of PT.
3. Specialized Modules & Reporting
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Time-Dependent Analysis: Accurately models the effects of creep, shrinkage, and prestress losses over the life of the structure.
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Foundation Design: Includes modules for designing mat foundations and combined footings.
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Detailed Reports & Drawings: Generates comprehensive calculation reports, material quantity take-offs, and general arrangement drawings for tendons and rebar.

