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What is Proto II ?
The Proto II Wall System is a patented and engineered masonry wall design that uses post tensioning to structurally support masonry in lieu of rebar and grout. The Proto II is available in 4”, 6” and 8” wide masonry fencing and also in 8” and 12” wide retaining walls.
The Proto II Fence and Retaining Walls use the same masonry block and have the same appearance as conventional masonry walls. The difference is on the inside: the post tensioned engineering that is used to structurally support the wall. This advanced technology provides a stronger, more efficient design.
How does post tensioning work in masonry walls?
The Proto II Wall is constructed using concrete footings and standard concrete masonry units (CMU block).
High strength steel tension rods are connected to rebar in the footing.
A Steel bearing plate, a high grade nut and a Direct Tension indicator (DTI) washer are installed near the top of wall.
The rod, plate and nut assembly are tightened to a specific torque rating which collapses the DTI to achieve the specified tension within a 3% tolerance.
This tensioning results in compression distributed throughout the wall, dramatically increasing its strength and load capacity over conventional grouted masonry walls.
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