Some workplaces have a lot of tension. That's certainly true for Donny Burckett, but only because Donny is a Field Operations Manager for DYWIDAG Systems International USA, Inc. (DSI), which is in charge of post-tensioning throughout the Project.
As we described in a previous newsletter, post-tensioning is a method of strengthening concrete structural elements. First, hollow metal ducts are placed within the concrete. Once the elements cure to a specified strength, a cluster of steel wire strands (called the tendon) are placed through the long ducts and tightened, or stressed, like the fibers of a muscle contracting. This compresses the concrete until it reaches the desired strength, then the steel tendon is anchored in place to keep the concrete compressed.
Post-tensioning is a very specialized trade because it is a potentially dangerous operation. Donny's foremen need a specific certification in order to pull the tensioning cables to their tensile strength of 44,000 pounds.
Donny and his team have been busy since starting on the Project in November 2018, since nearly every element of the bridge requires post-tensioning. For example, there are Floor Beams about every 9 feet along the 3,300-foot long bridge, and each one needs post-tensioning. This process becomes especially tricky where several elements intersect, like the Knuckle Region that we have profiled before, because post-tensioning materials have to be fit into the concrete alongside rebar and other materials.
Problem solving is Donny's specialty. He enjoys working on different projects with different customers, because it gives him many opportunities to learn and overcome interesting challenges. Donny has been with DSI since 2000 with a focus on bridges. Recently, he worked on the Gerald Desmond Bridge Replacement in Long Beach to post-tension the new bridge that will allow taller shipping containers could pass underneath. He is also at work on the elevated guideways of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Automated People Mover (APM), which will provide tram service throughout the terminals
This breadth of experience allows Donny and his team to use post-tensioning to strengthen every project they work on.
