In reinforced concrete structures, this method is used to economically span large openings; rather than increasing the dead load by enlarging the cross-section, prestressing force is applied to the concrete with the aim of eliminating tensile stress in the concrete under service loads or reducing it to a certain level.
This method, used in horizontal members with large spans (beams, slabs, girders, channels, etc.), allows for solutions using cost-effective cross-sections.