The hydraulic tensioner transmits power via a hydraulic system, with its core component being a hydraulic pump station that supplies high-pressure oil to the jack; when the jack piston extends, it clamps the prestressed tendon and applies tensile force. The entire system typically consists of a jack, oil pump, hydraulic circuit, and pressure gauge, enabling precise control of tension force with an error margin as low as ±1%. Advanced intelligent equipment further features automatic recording of tension data and remote monitoring capabilities, facilitating quality traceability and management.

It is primarily used in various prestressed construction methods—including pre-tensioning and post-tensioning—for structures such as bridges, tunnels, hydroelectric dams, water conveyance systems, buildings, and steel components. In prestressed concrete structures, it enhances the bending resistance and stiffness of components, delays crack formation, and improves durability. Intelligent tensioning systems are also employed in railway prestressed concrete bridge construction, combined with force sensors and hydraulic sensors to ensure precise tensioning.