In the world of industrialized construction, efficiency and the ability to cover large spaces with minimal supports are two of the most valued factors. This is where double tee precast concrete slabs stand out as a premier structural solution. Their characteristic double-ribbed design not only gives them a unique visual identity but also provides exceptional load-bearing capacity.
In this article, we will delve into what double tee slabs are, their advantages and applications, and how Moldtech provides the cutting-edge technology needed for their manufacture.
What is a Double Tee Precast Concrete Slab?
A double tee slab is a precast, prestressed concrete element characterized by its double “T” cross-section. It consists of a flat top slab and two longitudinal ribs or beams that provide great rigidity and strength. This optimized geometry allows double tee slabs to span long distances (up to 30 meters or more), while minimizing the element’s own weight and concrete consumption.
Manufacturing is carried out in industrial plants using high-precision steel molds. The use of high-strength concrete and prestressing steel gives double tee slabs superior structural capacity, making them an ideal choice for a wide variety of projects, from parking garages to entire industrial buildings.
Advantages of Using Double Tee Slabs
Choosing double tee slabs in a construction project offers a series of key benefits that optimize both the construction process and the final result:
- Long Spans and Open Spaces: Their main advantage is the ability to cover long distances without the need for intermediate columns, which allows for the creation of large, open interior spaces, highly valued in industrial and commercial buildings and parking garages.
- High Load Capacity: Thanks to the prestressed design and ribbed section, double tee slabs can support very high loads, making them suitable for floors in multi-story buildings, roofs, and bridges.
- Speed of Assembly: As precast elements, they arrive on-site ready to be installed. This drastically reduces execution times compared to cast-in-place flooring systems.
- Cost Reduction: The efficiency of the design minimizes the use of materials. In addition, the speed of assembly reduces labor costs and project financing times, generating significant overall savings.
- Controlled Quality: Factory manufacturing under strict quality controls guarantees a final product with superior strength, finish, and durability.
The Manufacturing Process with Moldtech Equipment
Producing high-quality double tee slabs efficiently requires specialized machinery. Moldtech has developed a self-supporting mould for TT slabs, an advanced engineering solution that optimizes the entire manufacturing process.
This system is characterized by being “self-supporting,” which means that the stresses generated by the tensioning of the steel strands are absorbed by the mould’s own structure, without the need to build costly foundations or anchoring abutments in the plant. This offers enormous flexibility, allowing the production line to be installed or relocated with minimal civil works.
The Moldtech mould allows for adjusting both the height of the rib and the width of the slab, offering great versatility to adapt to the requirements of each project. The side formwork system, with hydraulic or manual operation, ensures quick and safe operation during the preparation and demolding phases.
Applications of Double Tee Slabs
The versatility and structural capacity of double tee slabs make them ideal for:
- Industrial and Logistics Buildings: To create large, unobstructed storage and production halls.
- Parking Garages: Both underground and multi-story, where long spans facilitate vehicle maneuverability.
- Shopping Centers: Allowing for large and flexible retail spaces.
- Office Buildings: Creating open-plan floors that can be partitioned as needed.
- Bridges and Footbridges: As the main element of the deck.
Moldtech: Innovation in Double Tee Slab Manufacturing
The implementation of a double tee slab production system is a strategic investment for precast companies looking to expand their product range and compete in larger projects. With Moldtech’s self-supporting mould for TT slabs, companies can rely on a technologically advanced, flexible, and cost-effective solution.
Our experience in over 500 projects on five continents endorses us as the ideal partner for implementing comprehensive solutions for the precast industry. If you want to learn more about how our solutions can help you manufacture double tee concrete slabs, do not hesitate to contact our sales team.
