BS EN 446:2007

What is BS EN 446 - Grout for prestressing tendons procedures about?

Grout is a dense fluid which is used to fill gaps or as reinforcement in existing structures.

BS EN 446 is a European Standard that discusses grout for prestressing tendons. BS EN 446 provides industry best practices that ensure the grout is fit for purpose and plays a positive role in the durability of your structures.

BS EN 446 gives the procedures to be used for grouting of tendons in post-tensioned prestressed concrete. BS EN 446 is applicable to all types of structures including bridges and buildings.

Who is BS EN 446 - Grout for prestressing tendons procedures for?

BS EN 446 on the grout for prestressing tendons procedures is useful for:

• Manufacturers of concrete and concrete products
• Manufacturers of cement / grout
• The construction / construction material industry
• The cement industry
• Builders / real estate developers / architects
• Contractors
• Civil / construction / building engineers
• Project managers / supervisors
• Auditors / inspectors / quality control personnel

Why should you use BS EN 446 - Grout for prestressing tendons procedures?

In post-tensioned prestressed concrete construction, the grouting of tendons is an important operation. BS EN 446 provides you with a specification for grouting, compliance with which will satisfy the requirements in BS EN 13670.

The main function of grouting is to:

• Provide protection to the prestressing steel against corrosion
• Provide a bond between the prestressing steel and the ducts was required for the design of the structure
• Allow the transfer of compressive stresses in the structure in a direction transverse to the internal tendons
• Fill all voids where water may accumulate and cause frost damage

The testing regimes anticipated by BS EN 446 include three levels:

• Initial type and audit testing in accordance with EN 447
• Suitability testing for confirmation of the selected grout for a specific project in accordance with BS EN 446
• Inspection during the production of grout on a specific project in accordance with BS EN 446

BS EN 446 also covers suitability testing and inspection testing for grouts and their component materials used on a project.

Overall, if BS EN 446 guidelines are followed; the grouting procedure would enable suitable protection of the tendon from possible corrosion, and protect the structure from sudden failure if local damage takes place to the tendon.

Procedures in compliance with BS EN 446 can demonstrate the performance and quality of your products.