Professional Documents
Culture Documents
NDT Systems
For:
Durability
Assessment
Service Life
Estimation
Fast-Track
Construction
Corrosion
Survey
Structural
Integrity
Repair
Quality
Structural
Monitoring
GERMANN INSTRUMENTS
Test smart - Build right
This catalog is intended to acquaint potential users with the principles that
underpin the proven test systems that are presented and to provide typical examples
of their application. Please contact Germann Instruments for additional technical
and ordering information
On the Cover: Rising to a majestic height of 828 m, the Burj Khalifa shattered the previous height
record and is the World's Tallest Building. It is a testament to our ability to meet difficult challenges
by using our technical knowledge in combination with our creative abilities. We are grateful to
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP for providing the cover photo and inspiring us to new heights.
GI
GI
Introduction
For over a quarter of a century, Germann Instruments has been the leader in the field of test systems
for nondestructive testing (NDT) and on-site investigation of reinforced concrete structures.
Germann Instruments constantly develops, manufactures, and markets worldwide its innovative and
cutting-edge product line through offices in Denmark, the United States, and Luxembourg and
through distributors in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
The test systems cover varied aspects of concrete construction and investigation, such as
Durability Assessment
Service Life Estimation
Fast-Track Construction
Structural Integrity
Corrosion Survey
Repair Quality
Structural Monitoring
Every year, Germann Instruments adds new products to its long line of test systems and keeps
improving its existing systems. This catalog includes seven new systems that were not in the
previous catalog.
The systems are used to perform totally nondestructive test methods or test methods that require
limited near-to-surface specimen removal. When properly applied, these test systems allow rapid
testing and provide immediate results on-site. Also include are two methods for testing fresh
concrete. While they are the traditional types of NDT tests, they are important methods for on-site
quality control and quality assurance.
For correct operation, the test systems have to be maintained properly and need to be calibrated
according to the procedures outlined in the users manuals and in accordance with applicable
standards.
For optimal use of these systems, field engineers and consultants have to be trained and skilled in
planning testing programs, using the test systems, and interpreting test results. Furthermore, an
understanding of the fundamental deterioration mechanisms of reinforced concrete structures is
essential for proper planning and execution of testing programs. Germann Instruments has,
therefore, formed an international group, the NDT-Titans, to provide consulting, training, technical
support, and on-site testing of structures. This group brings the knowledge and expertise of wellseasoned, engineering professionals to as many users of these test systems as possible. The services
are outlined page 129 and on the homepage of the group:
www.NDT-Titans.com
Germann Instruments continues to affirm its commitment to serve the in-situ and nondestructive
testing community by placing state-of-the-art, technically proven, diagnostic tools in the hands of
field engineers and consultants.
Relevant Standard/Document
pg.
Auto-Shrink
ASTM C1698
AVA
AASHTO TP 75
Be4Cast
BOND-TEST
15
CAPO-TEST
20
CMD
Crack movement
COMA-Meter
ASTM C1074
26
CORECASE
28
CorroEye
ACI 228.2R
30
CorroWatch
CoverMaster
CrackScope
Width of cracks
36
Carbonation depth
37
DK-5000
DOCter
ASTM C1383
DSS-TEST
Eddy-Dowel
Eddy-Thick
52
ERE-Probe
55
EyeCon
GalvaPulse
Guardian
13
24
32
BS 1881:204, ACI 228.2R
ASTM C876
33
39
41
47
ACI 228.2R
49
ACI 228.2R
56
61
ASTM C1074
65
GWT
Water penetrability
ISO/DIS 7031
67
HUM-Meter
69
ICAR Rheometer
71
Relevant Standard/Document
pg.
LOK-TEST
Merlin
ASTM C876
85
MIRA
ACI 228.2R
87
Moisture Encounter
PetroPlaner
94
PetroThin
ASTM C856
96
POWER
Proof-loading of anchors
Profile Grinder
99
PROOVEit
101
105
RapidAir
ASTM C457
108
RAT
112
sMASH
ACI 228.2R
116
STEPPER
ACI 228.2R
121
Surfer
TORQ-TEST
PUNDIT
75
80
93
98
110
124
127
Application/Property
AVA (7)
Rapid Air (108)
Electrical resistance
CorroEye (30)
Mini Great Dane (85)
Alkali Content
RAT (110)
Electrical resistivity
Merlin (80)
POWER (98)
Flaw detection
DOCter (41)
Eyecon (56)
MIRA (87)
sMASH (116)
STEPPER (121)
Autogenous shrinkage
AutoShrink (5)
Half-cell potential
Bond/Tensile strength
In-place strength
BOND-TEST (15)
CAPO-TEST (20)
LOK-TEST (75)
TORQ-TEST (127)
Carbonation
Maturity
COMA-Meter (26)
Guardian (65)
Chloride content
Moisture content
HUM-Meter (69);
Moisture Encounter
(93)
Chloride penetrability
Merlin (80)
PROOVEit (101)
Resonant frequency
DK-5000 (39)
Chloride penetration
CorroWatch (32)
RCT and RCTW (112)
Rheology of concrete
(yield strength and
viscosity)
ICAR-Rheometer (71)
Chloride profiling
Shear strength
DSS-TEST (47)
TORQ-TEST (127)
Core drilling
CORECASE (28)
Shear-bond strength
DSS-TEST (47)
Corrosion rate
CorroEye (30)
GalvaPulse (61)
Specimen preparation
PetroPlaner (94)
PetroThin (96)
Cover over
reinforcement
CoverMaster (33)
Eddy-Dowel (49)
Temperature
measurement
Guardian (65)
Crack depth
DOCter (41)
Surfer (124)
Thermal modeling
Be4Cast (13)
Crack movement
CMD (24)
Thickness measurement
DOCter (41)
EyeCon (56)
Eddy-Thick (52)
MIRA (87)
STEPPER (121)
Crack width
CrackScope (36)
Tomography
MIRA (87);
Eddy-Dowel (49)
PUNDIT (105)
Surfer (124)
Electrical conductivity
Merlin (80)
Water penetrability
GWT (67)
Auto-Shrink
Purpose
The Auto-Shrink system measures the unrestrained autogenous shrinkage of a specimen of cement
paste or mortar cured under sealed conditions (ASTM C1698). Auto-Shrink permits evaluation of
the relative autogenous shrinkage potential of different cementitious systems. Excessive autogenous
shrinkage may lead to microcracking that increases the permeability of concrete.
Principle
When cement hydrates through chemical reactions with water,
the volume occupied by the products of hydration is less than
the original volume of cement and water. This phenomenon is
known as chemical shrinkage. When concrete is cured under
sealed conditions (no external source of moisture), the
reduction in paste volume due to hydration causes internal
tensile stresses that can lead to microcracking. The
microcracking, in turn, reduces concretes resistance to
penetration of water and deleterious substances.
Void
Water
Water
Hydrated
Cement
Cement
Auto-Shrink System
The Auto-Shrink digital dilatometer is composed of the following basic elements:
A corrugated plastic mold with tight-fitting plugs to prepare a slender test specimen
A rigid frame to support the specimen
A digital dial gauge with remote control to measure change in specimen length
A reference bar
Auto-Shrink
The digital displacement gauge is fixed firmly to the frame with a blunted hex screw. The remote
control is mounted on the side of the gauge. A lock function for the remote control is provided.
Specimens are cast vertically by using support tubes, which can be mounted to a vibrating table. To
ensure that the cast specimens have approximately the same length, the corrugated mold should not
be stretched or compressed during filling. The mold is filled to approximately 15 mm below the end
of the tube to allow room for the top sealing plug. Before the top sealing plug is mounted, the
corrugated tube is compressed slightly to bring the cement paste in contact with the sealing plug.
Measurements in the Auto-Shrink dilatometer are conveniently
done relative to a reference bar. To ensure optimal measuring
accuracy, the reference bar as well as the specimens should be
placed in the frame in the same orientation during each
measurement. A line mark with permanent ink at one end of the
corrugated tube may be used to indicate the proper orientation of
the specimen during measurement in the dilatometer.
Testing Example
In 2009, ASTM adopted a standard test method based on the Auto-Shrink system: "Test Method for
Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar," ASTM C1698.
Shrinkage, microstrain
The following graph is an example of autogenous strain measured over 2 weeks on a cement paste
(w/cm = 0.25) with 10 % silica fume cured at 30 C. Time is measured from the addition of water.
The strain has been defined as 0 at the time of final setting of the paste (from Mejlhede Jensen and
Freiesleben Hansen, 1995).
0
-500
-1000
-1500
-2000
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
Time, hours
Auto-Shrink Ordering Numbers
Item
1 Dilatometer support frame with stop pin
1 Digital displacement gauge including remote control
1 Reference bar
1 Spanner 15 mm
1 Hex key 2 mm
50 Corrugated tubes
100 Sealing plugs
1 Support tube for casting
5 grooved support racks each for 10 specimens
2 pairs of gloves
Order #
AS-1000
AS-1010
AS-1020
AS-1030
AS-1040
AS-1050
AS-1060
AS-1070
AS-1080
AS-1090
AVA
Purpose
The AVA (Air Void Analyzer) is used to measure the air-void parameters (spacing factor and specific
surface) of samples of fresh air-entrained concrete. Samples are taken after concrete is placed.
Background
The durability of concrete subjected to wetting and cycles of freezing and thawing can be enhanced
by deliberately introducing many, small and closely spaced air bubbles (air voids) in the cement
paste. During freezing, the ice formed in the capillary pores of the paste will expand into adjacent air
voids without damaging the paste, provided the air-void spacing and the size distribution of the air
voids are within certain limits. To characterize the air voids, the spacing factor (maximum distance
from any point in the cement paste to an air-void boundary) and the specific surface (ratio of the
surface area of the air voids to their volume) are used. In general, a good quality, frost resistant
concrete requires a spacing factor less than 0.20 mm and a specific surface greater than 25 mm-1.
The spacing factor and the specific surface of the air-void system
are determined typically according to ASTM C457 Test Method
for Microscopical Determination of Parameters of the Air-Void
System in Hardened Concrete. This method requires a sample
cored from the hardened concrete on-site and prepared properly
in the laboratory as illustrated in the photo to the left. The
spacing factor and the specific surface are then measured
manually by the linear traverse method using a microscope, or
by an automated image analyses system as illustrated on page
108. Determination of the air-void structure in this manner
cannot produce timely information during construction, which
would be needed to make adjustments to the concrete mixture if
the measured parameters are not within specified limits.
Timely information is important, because practice has shown that the air-void structure created by
air entraining agents can change easily during construction; for example, due to the type and dosage
of normal or high-range water-reducing admixtures, by changes in sources of cementitious materials,
by pressure influences in concrete pumps, by high hydrostatic pressure, or by over-vibration.
With the AVA, the air-void structure is measured after the concrete is placed but while it is still
fresh, thereby providing timely information of the spacing factor and the specific surface of the airvoid system in the cement paste of the in-place concrete. The testing time is 25
minutes or less.
Principle
The air bubbles entrained in a mortar sample, which is removed from fresh
concrete, are transferred to a blue AVA release liquid as the mortar is stirred.
Provided the release liquid has the proper viscosity and hydrophilic character, the
bubbles released from the mortar retain their original size and neither coalesce nor
disintegrate into smaller bubbles.
Above the blue AVA release liquid there is a column of water through which the air
bubbles rise. According to Stokes Law, larger bubbles will rise faster than smaller
bubbles.
The air bubbles rising through the water column are collected under an inverted
and submerged pan attached to a sensitive balance. As air bubbles accumulate in
the top of the pan, the apparent mass of the pan decreases as water is displaced by
air. The apparent mass of the pan is recorded over time.
Based of the recorded change in apparent mass of the pan, an algorithm calculates
the size distribution of the collected air bubbles. From the size distribution, the
spacing factor and the specific surface are calculated. The algorithm ensures the
parameters are the same as obtained from ASTM C457 linear traverse measurements.
7
AVA
Correlation and Variability
The results from the AVA have been correlated to ASTM C457 determinations. Among the published
reports are:
Brite Euram Project No: BE-3376-89, Task 2, Quantitative and Qualitative Determination of
the Air Void structure in Fresh Concrete, Dansk Beton Teknik A/S, Hellerup, Denmark, Feb.
1994
FHWA-SA-96-062, Air Void Analyzer Evaluation, Federal Highway Administration,
Washington DC, USA, 1995
Price, B., Measuring Air Voids in Fresh Concrete, CONCRETE, July/August 1996
Wojakowski, J., Air in Portland Cement Concrete Pavements, Kansas Department of
Transportation, USA, 2002
Crawford, G.L., Wathne, L.G., and Mullarky, J.I.: A Fresh Perspective on Measuring Air in
Concrete, Federal Highway Administration, Washington DC, 2003 Bridge Conference, USA
The general conclusion is that the AVA results in air-void parameters that are within 10 % of
those obtained by ASTM C457. The repeatability coefficients of variation for the AVA spacing factor
and the specific surface determinations are normally 8 to 10 %. In 2008, AASHTO adopted a
provisional test method for the AVA: "Method of Test for Air-Void Characteristics of Freshly Mixed
Concrete by Buoyancy Change," AASHTO TP 75-08.
Testing Example
A sample of the mortar fraction of the air-entrained concrete is taken by vibrating a wire cage
into the plastic concrete (left above). The mortar enters the cage, which excludes particles larger
than 6 mm. A syringe is used to collect a 20 cm3 mortar test specimen from within the cage.
The specimen is injected into the riser column (center above). The riser column has the blue AVA
release liquid at the bottom and water above it. The mortar and the liquid are stirred gently by a
magnetic stirrer for 30 seconds, and the air voids are released (right above).
The bubbles rise through the liquids at rates that depend on their size, which results in a
separation in time when different size bubbles arrive at the top of the column.
The bubbles are collected under a submerged pan attached to a balance. A computer connected to
the balance records the change in mass of the inverted pan as a function of time.
In the early stages of the measurement, the size distribution of the air bubbles collecting under
the pan range from a few mm to a few micrometers. For each succeeding period, the size of the
bubbles that collect under the pan decreases.
The measurement continues for 25 minutes unless no mass change is recorded for 2 consecutive
minutes, in which case the measurement is stopped.
The AVA software processes the time history of the balance readings and calculates the air-void
parameters including spacing factor and specific surface, as shown on the following page.
In addition, the software produces a graph of the bubble size distribution and a histogram of the
different bubble sizes, also illustrated on the following pages.
AVA
AVA System Features
Two AVA systems are available: the AVA-2000 and the AVA-3000.
AVA-2000
The AVA-2000 is the daily workhorse, and is based on the original Dansk Beton Teknik (DBT)
design from the late 1980s. This model features:
A complete system, ready-to-use, including a laptop computer with the AVA-2000 software and
an installed PCMCIA card with driver software
Optimized sensitivity of the balance for eliminating the effects of external vibrations during
testing
AVA-3000
Recently developed, the AVA-3000 features:
Latest microprocessor technology with components minimized in size and number
Only one USB cord is used to connect the laptop computer and the base unit
Incorporates a mini balance that can withstand rough treatment during transport and/or testing
Elimination of the influence of external vibrations on the test results, including the introduction
of a wind shield positioned on top of the riser column
Improved stirrer operation with constant rotational speed independent of the load applied on the
stirrer
Incorporates a 35-L temperature bath tank for automated de-aerating and controlling the
temperatures of the water and the AVA release liquid for testing. The water-filled tank may also
function as ballast for stabilizing the base unit
In addition to the calculation of the spacing factor and the specific surface for chord length less
than 2 mm (as in the AVA-2000), the AVA-3000 calculates the air-void parameters for chord
length less than 1 mm, as required by the current ASTM C457 standard
Example of AVA-2000 printout, documenting:
The change in mass of the buoyancy pan (x-axis) as a function of time (y-axis),
The results of the analyses, including the spacing factor and the specific surface, and
Comments
AVA
Example of AVA-3000 printout, documenting:
The change in mass of the buoyancy pan (x-axis) as a function of time (y-axis),
The results of the analyses, including the spacing factor and the specific surface, and
Comments
10
AVA
The AVA-2000 System
AVA-2000 System
Supplied in a rugged transport case
Base unit
Riser column
Order #
Item
Order #
AVA-2010
Brush
Plexiglas plate with hole for
sampling
Bucket for de-aeration of water
Connector box
Interface cord, connector box to PC
Cord, PC to balance
PCMCIA card and driver software
Manual for PCMCIA card
AVA-2130
AVA-2020
11
AVA-2140
AVA-2150
AVA-2160
AVA-2170
AVA-2180
AVA-2190
AVA-2200
AVA-2210
AVA-2220
AVA-2230
AVA-2240
AVA
The AVA-3000 System
Order #
Item
Order #
AVA-3010
Riser column
AVA-3020
Brush
AVA-3130
Piston
AVA-3030
AVA-3140
Buoyancy pan
AVA-3040
Laptop computer
AVA-3150
Vibrating cage
AVA-3050
AVA-3180
AVA-3060
AVA-3220
AVA-3070
AVA-3000 manual
AVA-3230
AVA-3080
AVA-2240
Vibrating collector
Electric drill
Funnel for insertion of AVA
release liquid into riser column
Sampling syringes, 5 pcs
AVA-3120
AVA-3090
As with the AVA-2000, the AVA-2260 verification kit for checking the balance is offered separately
as well as a 1-day training course by an AVA specialist.
12
Be4Cast
Purpose
Be4Cast is an advanced software package for simulating temperature evolution and stress
development in concrete structures during early-ages. The software allows modeling different
construction methods for a given structure in order to arrive at an optimal solution for reducing the
risk of early-age cracking due to thermal gradients and thermal shrinkage. Be4Cast is based on
heat transfer in 3-dimensions, which permits more accurate simulation of heat transfer in a
structural element of any shape.
It is important to control the early-age hardening process of concrete. Inappropriate construction
methods can cause:
Freezing before the concrete is strong enough to resist expansion stresses
Rapid evaporation leading to a weak cover layer
High temperature gradients leading to crack formation
Reduction in long-term strength due to high early-age temperatures
Delayed ettringite formation due to high curing temperature
Inadequate strength at formwork removal, prestressing, or loading
In all cases, the concrete structure may be damaged permanently and the durability, functionality,
and appearance will be substantially reduced. On the other hand, it is also important to avoid using
costly preventive measures that may unnecessary. By running simulations of alternative schemes
before start-up of a project, engineers can arrive at economical solutions for reducing the risk of
early-age damage.
The Be4Cast computer program is useful for:
Contractors, in planning construction methods to
meet specification requirements and economic
limitations.
Consultants, during the design phase where it is
possible to check feasibility of planned construction
activities.
Precast concrete producers, for optimizing production
schedules
Construction Method
Volumes corresponding to different placements are defined geometrically. Time of placement and the
placement temperature are defined. Volumes are prismatic with arbitrary polygonal cross sections.
Materials
Be4Cast
Thermal Boundaries
The structure can be provided with displacement boundary conditions to model external restraints.
Displacement boundary conditions are also used to specify planes of symmetry for reducing analysis
run time. If insufficient displacement boundary conditions are supplied by the user, the software
automatically provides boundary conditions so that the structure is statically determinate.
Calculation Method
The analyses (thermal and stress) in Be4Cast are performed by means of the finite-element method.
The structure is meshed into tetrahedrons. The variation of temperature and stress within elements
is assumed to be parabolic.
Results
Cross sections with extreme values of the parameters can be located automatically.
14
BOND-TEST
Purpose
The BOND-TEST is used to conduct a pull-off test in accordance with ASTM C1583, "Test Method
for Tensile Strength of Concrete Surfaces and the Bond Strength or Tensile Strength of Concrete
Repair and Overlay Materials by Direct Tension (Pull-off Method)." The obtained pull-off strength
can be used for the following purposes:
To evaluate the in-place bond strength between a repair overlay and the substrate
To evaluate the in-place tensile strength of concrete or other materials
To evaluate the effect of surface preparation procedures on the tensile strength of the substrate
before applying a repair material or overlay
To estimate the in-place compressive strength of surface concrete using the following
approximate relationship between tensile strength ft (MPa) and compressive strength fc (MPa):
fc
10
ft =
Principle
In the BOND-TEST, a disc is bonded to a prepared testing surface and the disc is pulled off after a
partial core has been cut around the disc (extreme left in following figure). The pull-off force, F, is
divided by the cross-sectional area of the partial core to obtain the pull-off strength fp:
fp =
4F
d2
BOND-TEST
The types of failures that can occur in a BOND-TEST are illustrated above. Failure in the substrate
(a) indicates that the bond strength is greater than the tensile strength of the substrate. A failure at
the interface (b) provides a measure of the tensile bond strength between the overlay and the
substrate. A failure in the overlay (c) indicates that the bond strength is greater than the tensile
strength of the overlay. During a test, it is very important that negligible bending is introduced to
the disc by the loading system. Otherwise, low and erratic test results will be obtained.
Failure type (a) is the preferred one, as it shows that the bond strength of the overlay is greater than
the tensile strength of the substrate. Note that failure occurs at the weakest link of the composite
system, and one cannot predict which type of failure will occur. Only tests results with the same typ
of failure should be averaged when computing the average pull-off strength.
The nature of the BOND-TEST has been investigated by finite element analyses (see Petersen,
C.G., Dahlblom, O. and Worters, P., Bond-Test of Concrete and Overlays, Proceedings,
International Conference on NDT in Civil Engineering, University of Liverpool, U.K., 1997). Failure
in the BOND-TEST using a 75-mm disc was predicted to occur at a displacement of 0.02 mm to 0.03
mm and the nominal stress in the partial core before rupture is about 3 % lower than the uniaxial
tensile strength of the substrate concrete.
15
BOND-TEST
Variability
For 75-mm discs, the coefficient of variation of replicate test results is about 8 to 10 % on concrete
with a maximum aggregate size of 38 mm. For 50-mm discs, the coefficient of variation is 14 to 16 %.
The BOND-TEST procedure
Electric drill
1. Surface planing
The surface is ground with a diamond wheel to
expose the aggregates and to obtain a plane
surface. The center knob is removed with a
separate grinder. The dry surface is steel
brushed and any dust or powder is blown away.
The suction plate is used to control the planing
operation.
2. Bonding the disc
A clean disc is bonded to the prepared surface
using a rapid-curing adhesive (GRA). The GRA
adhesive has a tensile strength of 10 MPa when
fully cured, which takes 2 to 5 minutes at normal
temperatures. The progress of hardening is
observed in the pot in which the two-component
GRA was mixed. In cold weather conditions, the
concrete surface and the disc are heated with a
heat gun to accelerate curing of the adhesive.
3. Partial coring
A partial core is cut perpendicular to the surface;
the bonded disc serves as a drill guide (the inner
diameter of the coring bit is slightly larger than
the disc diameter). The partial core is cut with
the CORECASE (page 28). For tests to measure
bond strength, the core is cut to a depth of 25
mm into the substrate or one-half of the core
diameter, whichever is greater; for tensile
strength of the substrate, cut to a depth of 25
mm.
4. Pull-off
The disc is loaded in direct tension at a
controlled rate using a calibrated hydraulic pull
machine. The machine bears against a circular
counter pressure ring positioned centrally on the
planed surface. The peak force in kN is recorded
and used to obtain the pull-off strength by
dividing by the cross-sectional area of the partial
core. The type of failure, (a), (b) or (c), as shown
on the previous page, is recorded.
Diamond planing
wheel unit
Suction plate
Vacuum
Centering plate
Vacuum
75-mm dia.
disc
To spindle assembly
and drill
Water in
Corecase
housing
Waste
water out
Vacuum
Pull bolt w/
spherical
end
Centering
disc
Counter pressure
ring
The procedure and the special equipment used for the BOND-TEST ensure that the disc is loaded in
direct tension without bending. Such bending may lower results by 20 to 50 %. The discs have
sufficient stiffness to avoid distortion during testing. By bonding a clean disc on a planed, dry surface
with the GRA adhesive, failure should not occur at the disc/overlay interface. Failure at the
disc/overlay interface is an invalid test and must be repeated if the bond strength is to be evaluated.
16
BOND-TEST
Testing Examples
BOND-TEST being performed for quality control of the bond between a wear resistant overlay and a concrete
slab; coring after bonding the 75- mm disc is shown (left), application of pull-off load (middle), and the bond
failure, type (b), between the overlay and the substrate (right) at 1.8 MPa
17
BOND-TEST
The BOND-TEST Equipment and Ordering Numbers
B-10000 DSV-Kit: For surface planing, bonding the disc, and
attaching the coring rig to produce the partial core without anchoring.
Item
Diamond planing wheel unit
Suction plate with valve and gauge
Two adjustable clamping pliers
Centering plate for 75 mm disc
Optionally, centering plate for 50 mm disc
Order #
B-10010
B-10020
B-10030
B-10040
B-10050
B-10060
B-10070
B-10080
B-10090
Order #
B-11010
B-11020
B-11030
B-11040
B-11050
B-11060
B-11070
B-11080
B-11090
B-11100
B11110
18
Order #
CC-10
CC-20
CCB-75/110
CC-30
CC-40
CC-50
CC-60
CC-70
CC-80
CC-90
CC-100
CC-110
CC-120
CC-130
CC-140
CC-150
BOND-TEST
B-12000 BOND-TEST Pull Machine Kit
Item
B-12010
Centering piece
Coupling
Pull bolt
Bolt handle
Oil refilling cup
Oil refilling bottle
Large screwdriver
Small screwdriver
Calibration table
Manual
Attach case
B-12020
L-16
L-17
L-19
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
B-12030
B-12040
B-12050
Item
19
Order #
Order #
B-13010
L-13
L-14
B-12020
L-16
L-17
L-19
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
B-13030
B-13040
B-13050
Item
Order #
B-14010
L-13
L-14
B-12020
L-16
L-17
L-19
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
B-14030
B-14040
B-14050
CAPO-TEST
Purpose
The CAPO-TEST permits performing pullout tests on existing structures without the need of preinstalled inserts. CAPO-TEST provides a pullout system similar to the LOK-TEST system (page
75) for accurate on-site estimates of compressive strength. Procedures for performing post-installed
pullout tests, such as CAPO-TEST, are included in ASTM C900.
Typical applications of the CAPO-TEST include the following:
Quality control of the finished structure
Verification of in-place strength when strength of standard-cured specimens fails to meet
acceptance criteria
Estimating residual strength of concrete in existing structures
Evaluation of fire-damaged structures
Integrity of structures
25 mm
55 mm
25 mm
Principle
When selecting the location for a CAPO-TEST, ensure
that reinforcing bars are not within the failure region.
The surface at the test location is ground flat and a 18.4
mm hole is cored perpendicular to the surface. A recess
(slot) is routed in the hole to a diameter of 25 mm and at
a depth of 25 mm. A split ring is expanded in the recess
and pulled out using a pull machine reacting against a
55 mm diameter counter pressure ring. As in the LOKTEST, the concrete in the strut between the expanded
ring and the counter pressure ring is in compression.
Hence, the ultimate pullout force F is related directly to
compressive strength.
20
70
Krenchel 1982
Yun et al. SP-112, MSA = 40 mm
Yun et al. SP-112, Mortar
Meyer 1994
Bellander 1983, MSA = 38 mm
Bellander 1983, MSA = 18 mm
60
CAPO-TEST Force, kN
50
Line of Equality
40
30
20
10
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
LOK-TEST Force, kN
60
70
CAPO-TEST
Comparison with Core Strength
An investigation on 10 bridges compared the strength of cores with strengths estimated on the basis
of the CAPO-TEST and the rebound hammer test (ASTM C805). As shown in the following figure,
strengths estimated by the CAPO-TEST were on average within 6 % of the core strength. This study
confirms the inherent reliability of pullout testing for estimating in-place compressive strength.
Reference: Moczko, A., Comparison Between Compressive Strength Tests From Cores,
CAPO-TEST and Schmidt Hammer, Wroclaw Technical University, Poland, 2002.
80
CAPO-TEST
Rebound Hammer
70
60
50
40
30
20
Line of Equality
10
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
Expanded ring
21
CAPO-TEST
CAPO-TEST Equipment and Ordering Numbers
Inserts and Resizing Tool
CAPO-TEST Kits
The CAPO-TEST kits includes C-101 Preparation Kit, the C-102 DSV-Kit and a pull machine kit,
either the C-103 kit containing a pull machine with the 0 to 60 kN analog dial gauge or the C-104 kit
containing a pull machine with the 0 to 100 kN digital gauge.
C-101 CAPO-TEST Preparation Kit
This kit is used to drill the center hole and to cut the recess to accommodate the expandable insert.
The kit also contains the unit for expanding the CAPO-TEST insert and other miscellaneous tools
for conducting the test.
Item
Counter pressure
Expansion unit
Water pump
Recess router unit
Distance piece, 25 mm
Bottle w. CAPO-Oil
Diamond drill unit
Electric drill
Wrench, 14 mm
Wrench, 19 mm
Order #
C-142
C-101-1
C-150
C-101-2
C-136
C-143
C-101-3
C-101-4
C-151
C-155
Item
Screwdriver
Tweezers
Plastic hose
Marking chalk
Pliers
Allen key, 4 mm
Wrench, 46 mm
Wrench, adjustable
Vernier caliper
Attach case
Order #
C-149
C-148
C-157
C-160
C-147
C-156
C-147-1
C-147-2
C-135
C-160
C-102 DSV-Kit
The kit includes the diamond planer, the suction plate, a vacuum pump, and the necessary tools for
grinding the surface so that it is flat before drilling the center hole and routing the recess. The
diamond planer, the diamond core drill unit, and the recess router are positioned in the recess of the
suction plate for proper alignment and dimensional control.
Item
Order #
Diamond planner
Vacuum pump w.
hose
Centering brass tap
Suction plate
22
C-102-1
C-102-4
C-102-5
C-102-2
Item
Clamping pliers, 2
Small screwdriver
Wrench, 17 mm
Plastic hose
Attach case
Order #
C-102-3
C-158
C-154
C-147
C-161
CAPO-TEST
Two pull machines are available for the CAPO-TEST. These are the same machines as used for the
LOK-TEST.
C-103 CAPO Pull Machine Kit
The hydraulic pull machine comes with a calibrated 0 to 60 kN analog gauge. Alternatively, the
instrument can be supplied with a 0 to 40 kN gauge (Order No. L-10-2) for testing up to 40-MPa
concrete. The pull machine accuracy is within 0.6 %, exceeding the 2 % requirement of ASTM C900.
Item
Order #
L-10-3
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
C-165
C-166
Item
Order #
L-11-1
L-13
L-14
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
L-32
L-33
C-104-1
Note: The calibration of the pull machines needs to be verified at least once a year, or sooner, if
serviced or damaged. The L-30 Load Verification Unit shown on page 79 is available for this purpose.
23
CMD
Purpose
The CMD system is used to monitor the opening and closing of a surface crack as well as relative
lateral movement between the two sides of the crack as a function of time.
Principle
With the CMD (Crack Monitoring Device), a three-point rosette, in the shape of an equilateral
triangle with 50-mm side lengths, is bonded to the surface. Two of the rosette points are positioned
parallel to the crack, and the third one is positioned on the opposite side of the crack approximately
half the distance to the base line.
C
50 mm
A
Temperature and moisture related movements, measured between points A and B, together with
crack movement measurements between points A and C as well as between points B and C are
transformed mathematically into the opening or closing of the crack and into the relative lateral
movement of the two sides of the crack.
The measurements are made manually with the CMD-200 using a caliper, or they can be made
electronically with the CMD-300 using displacement sensors (LVDTs). The CMD-300 also has the
option for remote monitoring from the office by means of a phone line.
Precision and variation
The resolution of the displacement measurements is 0.01 mm and the coefficient of variation for
replicate measurement on the same crack is 5 %.
Testing Examples
0.50
Movement, mm
0.40
0.30
0.20
Open
Lateral
0.10
0.00
-0.10
-0.20
0
Months
24
CMD
Item
Three rosettes
Positioning plate, acrylic
GRA glue, box
Precision caliper, electronic
Manual
CMD-300
Order #
CMD-210
CMD-220
CMD-230
CMD-240
CMD-250
25
Item
Case with electronics and phone line
cord
Order #
CMD-310
CMD-320
CMD-330
CMD-340
CMD-350
CMD-360
CMD-370
CMD-380
CMD-390
COMA-Meter
Purpose
The COMA-Meter (COncrete MAturity-Meter) is used to measure the maturity of newly cast
concrete at a depth of 80 mm from the surface for the following purposes:
Estimating the compressive strength at an early age using a pre-established strength-maturity
relationship (see page 27 for illustration)
Timing of pullout testing with LOK-TEST for early-age strength measurement
Evaluating the effective in-place curing temperature
Principle
A glass capillary contains a liquid for which the rate of evaporation varies with temperature
according to the Arrhenius equation, which is the same function that is used to determine maturity
of concrete from the temperature history. The closed capillary is placed on a card with a calibrated
scale indicating maturity in equivalent age at 20 C. The card is attached to a cap threaded onto a
transparent container. After the concrete is cast, the capillary tube is snapped at the zero mark on
the scale, the cap is threaded in the container, and the container is pressed into the fresh concrete.
Container
Liquid filled glass
capillary
Absorption compound
150
Arrhenius
COMA-Meter
The temperature within the container will stabilize quickly with the temperature of the surrounding
concrete. The liquid in the capillary tube evaporates at a rate determined by the temperature and
time. The level of the liquid, readable on the scale, measures the maturity of the concrete stated in
M20 units, which is the number of equivalent days of curing at 20 C.
100
50
0
0
50
100
150
3
2
1
0
-10
10
20
30
40
50
60
COMA-Meter, days
Temperature, C
26
COMA-Meter
Resolution and Accuracy
The measuring ranges of the two types of COMA-Meters are 0 to 5 M20 days for the COMA-5 and 0
to 14 M20 days for the COMA-14. The scale allows the maturity to be estimated to within 0.1 M20
days. The meter is accurate to within 5 % compared with maturity values calculated from
temperature readings as shown on the previous page. The activation energy E for the COMA-Meter
is 40 kJ/mol.
Applications
Compressive Sterngth, MPa
50
40
30
Mixture A
Mixture B
Mixture C
20
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
M , days at 20 C
20
Maturity measured by the COMA-Meter before inplace strength testing with LOK-TEST for early form
removal.
COMA-5
Pack of five 0 to 5 M20 days COMA-Meters
COMA-14
Pack of five 0 to 14 M20 days COMA-Meters
27
CORECASE
Purpose
CORECASE is a portable light weight coring rig for quickly obtaining drilled cores that are accurate
in diameter, have straight sides, and are perpendicular to the surface. In addition to determining inplace compressive strength, drilled cores can also be used for the following purposes:
Verification of flaws identified by NDT methods such as the sMASH impulse-response
system; the DOCter impact-echo system; and the MIRA and EyeCon pulse-echo systems
Preparing a partially drilled core for conducting a pull-off test with BOND-TEST in accordance
with BS 1881:207 or ASTM C1583
Other laboratory tests such as: rapid chloride penetration using the PROOVEit system, bulk
conductivity using Merlin, air-void parameters using the RapidAir system, or for petrographic
analysis
Principle
A thin-walled coring barrel with a high-performance diamond bit is attached to a water-cooled drill
rig weighing between 1.8 kg and 3.5 kg. The drill rig pushes the drill barrel forward concentrically
thereby avoiding bending forces during drilling. A special plastic coupling is used between the
electric drill and the coring barrel to reduce vibration of the bit, ensuring a long life for the diamond
bit and a smooth core surface. The drill rig is kept securely perpendicular to the surface by
adjustable clamps anchored to the surface or by a suction plate. The end result is a quickly drilled
core that has a smooth surface, accurate diameter, and drilled perpendicular to the surface. Two
versions are available: CORECASE CS-75 for a 75-mm core diameter and CORECASE CEL-100
for a 100-mm core diameter.
Example Applications
28
CORECASE
CORECASEG49 CS-75 (75-mm core)
Item
Coring rig with coupling
Handles for coring rig, 3 pcs
Coring bit, 75 mm x 110 mm
Water pump with 2 hoses
Clamping pliers, adjustable, 2
Set of anchoring tools, 8 mm
8 mm expansion anchors, 20
Chisel
Hammer
Core lifter, 75-mm diameter
Wrench, 14 mm
Measuring tape
Set of spare bearings for coring rig
Reinforcement locator
Manual
Attach case
Order #
CC-10
CC-20
CCB-75/110
CC-30
CC-40
CC-50
CC-60
CC-70
CC-80
CC-90
CC-100
CC-110
CC-120
CC-130
CC-140
CC-150
Optional items
Suction plate
Vacuum pump
1150 W electric drill
CC-160
CC-170
CC-180
Order #
CC-15
CC-20
CCB-100/210
CC-30
CC-40
CC-55
CC-65
CC-75
CC-80
CC-95
CC-100
CC-110
CC-120
CC-130
CC-145
CC-155
CC-180
29
CorroEye
Purpose
CorroEye is used to monitor the corrosion rate of steel reinforcement in critical areas of a reinforced
concrete element or structure by means of a post-installed sensor.
Principle
The reinforcement in question is located and the cover depth and the bar size are measured with a
covermeter, e.g., with the CoverMaster shown on page 33.
The CorroEye sensor is mounted on the surface above the reinforcement. A slot is cut into the
surface; an ERE-Probe (page 55) is placed in the slot parallel to the surface and covered with
mortar. An 8 mm hole is drilled to a depth of 25 mm and a mounting anchor is inserted into the hole
and expanded. A firm connection to the reinforcement is made with an adaptor installed in another
drilled hole. Electrical connections are made to the pulse generator and the data logger, which has
input options for up to eight CorroEye sensors.
The 90 mm long CorroEye sensor has four 15 mm diameter contact points. The two outer points act
as guard electrodes and the two inner points act as counter electrodes, as illustrated below.
The sensor measures, at pre-set time intervals, the corrosion rate by the same galvanostatic pulse
principle as used for the GalvaPulse instrument (page 61). The readings are stored in a watertight
data logger, which is also attached to the surface at a convenient location. The recorded data are
downloaded on-site to a portable computer whenever required. Alternatively, the data logger has an
option for connection to a mobile phone for remote monitoring. Each phone line can handle up to 200
data loggers by the RS 485 communication port.
Two types of sensors are available. The CorroEye Mark I is used on a vertical surface or on a
horizontal surface where the sensor will not interfere with traffic or access. The CorroEye Mark II
is used in all other cases and is covered with a thin layer of protective mortar.
CorroEye Mark I
ERE Probe
Pulse Generator
and Data Logger
CorroEye Mark II
ERE Probe
Pulse Generator
and Data Logger
CorroEye
Testing Examples
31
Order #
CE-MkI-20-100
CE-MkII-20-110
CE-PGDL-120
CE-PC card-130
CE-140
CE-150
ERE-Probe-3
CorroWatch
Purpose
CorroWatch is a monitoring system for early warning of the onset reinforcement corrosion. It can
also be used to estimate the time before corrosion of reinforcement begins so that corrective
measures may be taken early enough to minimize repair costs.
Principle
The CorroWatch is a multi-probe device consisting of four black steel bars acting as anodes and a
noble metal as the cathode. The bars are positioned at different elevations and when cast into
concrete, CorroWatch allows determination of corrosion activity as a function of cover distance.
In addition, the ERE-Probe (page 55) may be cast into the concrete for monitoring the potentials of
the four black steel anodes of the CorroWatch.
ERE-Probe
Anodes
By monitoring the potential drop of the four anodes as a function of time, the gradual penetration of
the depassivation front can be tracked and the service life can be estimated reliably, based on the
actual depth of the reinforcement.
Accuracy
In terms of measuring the ingress of the depassivation front, the CorroWatch is just as accurate as
if the penetration were monitored using normal black-steel reinforcement.
Testing Example
Potential, mV (Ag/AgCl)
-50
-100
Item
CorroWatch with 3 meter cables
CorroWatch with 5 meter cables
CorroWatch with 10 meter cables
Depth 1
Depth 2
Depth 3
Depth 4
-150
-200
-250
10
15
20
Time, years
32
Order #
CW-3
CW-5
CW-10
CoverMaster
Purpose
CoverMaster covermeters are used for the following purposes:
Locate reinforcing bars and metal cable ducts in concrete
structures
Measure the cover depth of reinforcement
Estimate the size of reinforcing bars
Locate other metal objects embedded in concrete
Principle
CoverMaster instruments are based on the pulse-induction
technique. A repetitive current pulse is applied to the coils in the
search head (below left). During each pulse, current increases
gradually in the coils but is turned off rapidly. The sudden end of the
pulse causes a sudden collapse in the magnetic field produced by the
coils, which induces eddy currents in a bar located within the coils
influence zone. As the eddy currents decay, a decaying magnetic field
induces a secondary current in the coils (below right). The instrument measures the amplitude of the
induced current, which depends on the orientation, depth, and size of the bar. The search head is
directional and maximum signal is obtained when the bar is aligned with the long axis of the search
head. The pulse-induction technique is uniquely stable, is not affected by moisture in concrete or
magnetic aggregates, and is immune to temperature variations and electrical interference.
33
CoverMaster
Basic Features (continued)
Quick release battery pack and charger
Can be used with different search heads (See below)
Includes standard search head, cable, carrying case, and instruction manual
Rechargeable battery pack
Optional Search Heads
In addition to a choice of four search heads, the CoverMaster P3312 can also be used with half-cell
probes to measure the half-cell potential (see page 85). A borehole probe is also available for locating
a second layer of reinforcement or deeply embedded tendon ducts. The borehole probe can be
switched from the forward looking to the side looking mode.
Standard
Narrow Pitch
Deep Scan
Borehole Probe
For measurement of
second layer of
reinforcement and tendon
ducts
Sample Display
Half-Cell Potential Kit
Cu/CuSO4 or Ag/AgCl
34
CoverMaster
Model TH includes all the features of Model SH plus the following:
Data storage up to 240,000 points
Linear and grid data storage (data stored in 2-D format)
User defined 2-D testing grid
Graphics plot and threshold plot
Model THD includes all the features of Model TH plus a stainless steel measurement probe.
CoverMaster P3312 Feature Comparison
Model
Description
BH
SH
TH
THD
CoverMaster Software
Statistics
Memory
Graphics plot
Threshold plot
Metric
U.S. Bar Numbers
#2 to #18 in 16 values
ASTM/Canadian
10 to 55M in 8 values
6 to 57 mm in 17 values
Japanese
35
CrackScope
Purpose
The CrackScope CS-100 can be used for accurate measurement of the width of surface opening
cracks as well as measurement of the depth of surface holes or irregularities.
Principle
The CrackScope is a small size, lightweight and conveniently portable microscope with a 25
magnification. It has a build-in scale for crack-width measurement and another scale on the focusing
adjustment ring for depth indication.
Resolution
The magnification of the CrackScope is 25 times. The built-in 3-mm scale has a least division of
0.05 mm, allowing the width of cracks to be estimated within 0.025 mm. Depth measurement is
achieved by focusing at the bottom of a depression and then focusing at the perimeter of the
depression. By reading the scale engraved on the focusing ring and the needle of the lens barrel,
depths can be measured with an accuracy of 0.05 mm.
Application Example
Ordering Number:
CrackScope CS-100
36
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
8.5 to 9.5
Rainbow Indicator
Color:
pH:
11
13
Accuracy
The carbonation front measured with the Deep Purple Indicator represents where the cement
paste has a pH within the range of 8.5 to 9.5 as shown above.
The results of the Rainbow Indicator were correlated with the depth of carbonation determined by
petrographic thin section analysis for a wide range of concretes with varying slump, with or without
calcium chloride or fly-ash, different water-cement ratios, varying degrees of consolidation and
different finishing methods. The results were published in:
Campbell, D.H., Sturm, R.D. and Kosmatka, S.H., Detecting Carbonation, Concrete
Technology Today, Vol. 12, No. 1, March 1991, Portland Cement Association, USA
The results indicated that the depth of carbonation determined from thin section analysis correlated
with the depth where the Rainbow Indicator indicated a green color or pH of 9 as shown above.
On normal concrete, the depth of the carbonation front can be determined with an accuracy of 10 %
to 15 %.
Testing Examples
The depth of carbonation evaluated by the
Deep Purple Indicator. An average depth of
carbonation of 16 mm was measured.
37
Ordering Numbers
38
DK 5000
Purpose
The DK-5000 determines the resonant frequency of prismatic or cylindrical specimens in accordance
with the impact resonance method described in ASTM C215, "Test Method for Fundamental
Transverse, Longitudinal, and Torsional Resonant Frequencies of Concrete Specimens." The impact
resonance method is a simple test that determines the resonant frequency very quickly. Resonant
frequency testing can be used for the following applications:
Determination of the dynamic elastic properties (modulus of elasticity, Poissons ratio, and shear
modulus of elasticity)
Monitoring damage as a result of exposure to accelerated weathering, such as cycles of freezing
and thawing in accordance with ASTM C666/C666 M
Quality control of manufactured products
Principle
When a test specimen is subjected to mechanical impact, such as being struck by a hammer, it will
vibrate at it natural or resonant frequency. The DK-5000 uses a small hammer to impact the test
specimen and a small accelerometer to monitor the vibration of the specimen. By using the correct
specimen support condition, the proper position of the impact point, and the correct location of the
accelerometer, the resonant frequencies for different modes of vibration can be determined. The
illustration below shows the locations of the specimen support(s), the impact point, and
accelerometer position to measure the longitudinal, flexural, and torsional resonant frequencies. In
the impact resonance method, the resonant frequency is determined by transforming the time
history of the accelerometer signal into the frequency domain. The resultant amplitude spectrum
will contain one or more peaks that correspond to the excited frequencies.
Impact
Accelerometer
Longitudinal mode
Flexural mode
39
Torsional mode
DK-5000
DK Tester Software
Order #
DK5000-1
DK5000-2
Impactor
DK5000-3
Test bench
DK5000-4
Manual
DK5000-5
40
DOCter
Purpose
The use of traditional stress wave methods, such as ultrasonic through transmission (page 105), to
identify the presence of anomalies in structures requires access to both faces of a member.
Furthermore, it is not possible to determine the depth to anomalies. These drawbacks are eliminated
by using the impact-echo method, which requires access to only one surface. The impact-echo method
is based on monitoring the periodic arrival of reflected stress waves and is able to obtain information
on the depth of the internal reflecting interface or the thickness of a solid member.
The DOCter is a versatile, portable system based on the impact-echo method, and can be used for
the following applications:
Principle
A short-duration stress pulse
is introduced into the member
by mechanical impact. This
impact generated three types
of stress waves that propagate
away from the impact point. A
surface wave (R-wave) travels
along the top surface, and a Pwave and an S-wave travel
into the member. In impactecho testing, the P-wave is
used to obtain information
about the member.
Data Acquisition
and Analysis
System
Impact
Reflected
P-wave
Transducer
Incident
P- P-wave
When the P-wave reaches the back side of the member, it is reflected and travels back to the surface
where the impact was generated. A sensitive displacement transducer next to the impact point picks
up the disturbance due to the arrival of the P-wave. The P-wave is then reflected back into the
member and the cycle begins again. Thus the P-wave undergoes multiple reflections between the two
surfaces. The recorded waveform of surface displacement has a periodic pattern that is related to the
thickness of the member and the wave speed.
The displacement waveform is transformed into the frequency domain to produce an amplitude
spectrum, which shows the predominant frequencies in the waveform. The frequency of P-wave
arrival is determined as the frequency with a high peak in the amplitude spectrum. The thickness
(T) of the member is related to this thickness frequency (f) and wave speed (Cp) by this simple
approximate equation (see page 42):
T=
Cp
2f
The same principle applies to reflection from an internal defect (delamination or void). Thus, the
impact-echo method is able to determine the location of internal defects as well as measure the
thickness of a solid member.
41
DOCter
Example
The upper plot in this example
shows the surface displacement
waveform obtained from a test
of a solid concrete slab. The
figure below the waveform is the
amplitude spectrum obtained by
transforming the waveform into
the frequency domain. The peak
at 11.47 kHz is the thickness
frequency. For a wave speed of
4240
m/s,
this
frequency
corresponds to a thickness of
4240 /(211,470) = 0.185 m, or
185 mm.
Data Acquisition
and Analysis
System
300 mm
150 10 mm
Spacer
Impact
Transducer 1
Transducer 2
T=
0.96 C p
2f
The explanation for this 0.96 factor can be found in the following reference:
Gibson, A. and Popovics, J.A., 2005, "Lamb Wave Basis for Impact-Echo Method Analysis," J. of
Engineering Mechanics (ASCE), Vol. 131, No. 4, April, pp. 438-443.
42
DOCter
Measurement of P-wave Speed
The figure to the right is an example
of the measurement of P-wave speed
by using two transducers a known
distance apart. The time of arrival of
the P-wave at each transducer is
determined as the point when the
signal for each transducer rises above
the background value. The Viking
software allows the user to place
cursors at the points corresponding to
the P-wave arrivals, and calculates
the value of Cp. In this case, the
calculated speed is 4480 m/s, and 96
% of this value is 4300 m/s.
Detection of Internal Defects
The P-wave generated by impact will reflect at interfaces within the concrete where there is a
change in acoustic impedance, which is defined by the density and wave speed of a material. At a
concrete-air interface, there is complete reflection of the P-wave, and this permits detection of
internal defects such as delaminations, cavities, and honeycombed concrete. If the plan area of the
reflecting interface is large, the impact-echo response will be similar to that of a solid plate except
that the thickness frequency will be shifted to a higher value. If the defect is just large enough to be
detectable, the amplitude spectrum will show two peaks: one corresponds to reflection from the
interface and the other corresponds to the portion of the P-wave that travels around the defect and
reflects from the opposite surface of the plate. By positioning the cursor at the frequency associated
with the flaw, the flaw depth is shown by the Viking software. The frequency associated with the
portion of the P-wave that travels around the defect will be shifted to a lower frequency value than
the solid plate thickness frequency. This is because the wave has to travel a longer distance as it
diffracts around the flaw. The frequency shift is a good indicator of the presence of a flaw if it is
known that the plate thickness is constant.
Depth of Surface-Opening Cracks
The DOCter can also be used to
measure the depth of surface-opening
cracks, using a time domain analysis.
The LONGSHIP transducers are
placed on opposite sides of the crack
(as shown on in the sketch to the
right) and impact is generated on the
line passing through the transducers.
When the P-wave reaches the tip of
the crack, the crack tip acts as a Pwave source, a process called
diffraction. The diffracted P-wave is
detected by the transducer on the
opposite side of the crack from the
impact. By measuring the time
interval between the arrival of the
direct P-wave at the first transducer
and the arrival of the diffracted wave
at the second transducer, the depth of the crack can be calculated. The example shown is from
testing a fire-damaged structure, and a crack depth of 87 mm was estimated for a time difference of
35 s and a P-wave speed of 3155 m/s.
43
DOCter
Accuracy
For P-wave speed determined by calibration with a known thickness, the error in thickness
measured by the DOCter system is estimated to be within 2 %. This assumes that the same Pwave speed is applicable at all test points.
In the case of thickness measurement based on measuring the P-wave speed from surface
measurements, the error in thickness dues to systematic errors associated with the digital nature of
the measurements is about 3 %. This assumes that the P-wave speed is uniform with depth.
The depth of surface-opening cracks can be estimated within 4 %.
Testing Examples
Measurement of thickness of
cast-in-place tunnel lining
44
DOCter
DOCter Ordering Numbers
The DOCter comes in two versions: the DOC-700 for flaw detection and thickness measurement;
and the DOC-4000 for flaw detection, thickness measurement, crack depth measurement, and Pwave speed measurement. The Spider multiple impactor unit can be purchased as an option to
increase the operating range of the systems.
DOC-700
The DOC-700 system is a one-channel system for thickness measurement and flaw detection. The Pwave speed is determined by testing over a solid portion of a plate with known thickness. The system
includes a laptop computer, a data acquisition module, one Mark IV transducer with impactors, and
software. The hardware components and computer are delivered in attach cases (not shown).
Item
Order #
Laptop computer
DOC-10
DOC-20
DOC-30
Mark IV transducer
DOC-40
DOC-60
DOC-80
Single cable
DOC-90
DOC-120
DOC-140
DOC-150
DOC-160
DOC-170
45
DOCter
DOC-4000
The DOC-4000 system is a two-channel system that complies with the surface method for P-wave
speed measurement given in ASTM C1383. Besides thickness determination and flaw detection, the
DOC-4000 can be used to estimate the depth of surface-opening cracks.
Item
Order #
Laptop computer
DOC-10
DOC-20
DOC-30
DOC-50
DOC-60
DOC-70
DOC-80
Double cable
DOC-100
DOC-130
DOC-140
DOC-150
DOC-160
DOC-170
46
DSS-TEST
Purpose
The DSS-TEST is used to measure the direct shear bond strength of a carbon fiber reinforced
polymer (CFRP) laminate bonded to concrete.
Principle
CFRP laminates are used as external reinforcement to strengthen existing concrete structural
elements. The laminates are bonded to the concrete with epoxy adhesives. The effectiveness of the
CFRP laminates to act as external reinforcement relies on adequate shear bond strength with the
concrete. The DSS-TEST (Direct Shear Strength-TEST) measures the shear bond strength of 50mm wide CFRP strips with a 200-mm bonded length to a concrete element in-situ or in the
laboratory.
The CFRP strip is bonded to the concrete element using the manufacturers recommended adhesive.
The strip is bonded perpendicular to the edge of the concrete so that it extends 200 mm beyond the
edge.
CFRP
Strip
Reaction plate
Pedestal
200 mm
200 mm
Coupling
Gripping jaw
After the adhesive has cured, a pedestal is placed over the strip and made to rest against the edge of
the concrete member.
The 200-mm length of the CFRP strip that extends beyond the member is bonded to a pair of
gripping jaws using a fast-setting adhesive (GRA). The jaws are firmly tightened to the strip with
transverse fasteners.
A pull assembly with an attached coupling device is connected to the jaws. The reaction to the
applied tensile load is transferred to the pedestal through two reaction plates.
A hydraulic pull machine is attached to the coupling and rests against the reaction plates. The
tensile load applied by the pull machine results in a shear stress at the CFRP/concrete bond line.
The load is increased until rupture occurs between the CFRP strip and the substrate.
The ultimate load in kN is a direct measure of the anchorage force of the strip for the 200 mm
bonded length.
Examples of test results have been published in:
Jensen, A.P., Petersen, C.G., Poulsen, E., Ottosen, C. and Thorsen, T., On the Anchorage to Concrete
of Sika CarboDur CFRP Strips: Free Anchorage, Anchorage Devices and Test Results, International
Congress, Creating with Concrete, Dundee, Scotland, September 1999.
Variability
The coefficient of variation of the ultimate load is about 5 % for replicate tests using the same
concrete substrate.
47
DSS-TEST
Testing Example
DSS-TEST being performed to determine anchorage load of bonded CFRP strips (left) and typical failures (right)
Order #
DSS-510
DSS-520
DSS-530
DSS-540
DSS-550
DSS-560
C-141
B-11060
DSS-570
DSS-580
DSS-590
DSS-600
Item
Hydraulic pull machine with electronic
gauge, 0-100 kN, 0.1 kN digital division
Order #
L-11-1
L-13
L-14
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
L-33
C-104-1
48
Eddy-Dowel
Purpose
The Eddy-Dowel is a rail-mounted system for accurate
measurement of the position of dowel bars and tie bars
used in jointed concrete pavements. The device was
developed by MIT Mess- und Prftechnik GmbH,
Dresden, Germany, who named it the "MIT Scan-2." The
measuring unit includes five computer controlled eddy
current sensors. Data are acquired at a high sampling
rate as the measuring unit is pulled along rail system
resting on the pavement. The large amount of acquired
data allows reconstruction of bar alignment, which can
be compared with specification tolerances.
The main features of the Eddy-Dowel system include:
Bar depth and alignment can be measured immediately after concrete has undergone setting
Portable hand-held computer with wireless communication with the measuring unit for
immediate on-site analysis using MagnoNorm software
Comprehensive analysis and visualization of dowel alignment with desktop MagnoProof
software
Efficient inspection: up to 500, 16-m traverses per day
High precision; 4 mm for depth and horizontal alignment; 8 mm for longitudinal alignment
(side shift)
The Eddy-Dowel system has been evaluated by several departments of transportation in North
America and it has been found to be capable of making highly accurate measurements of bar location
and alignment. See the following reference:
FHWA Concrete Pavement Technology Program, "Tech Brief: Use of Magnetic Tomography Technology
to Evaluate Dowel Bar Placement," FHWA-IF-06-002, October 2005,
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pavement/pccp/pubs/06002/06002.pdf
Principle
The Eddy-Dowel uses the pulse induction, eddy current technique to determine the distance to the
bars (see page 33 for a description of this method). Because the measuring unit includes five sensors,
a fast sampling rate, and an accurate distance sensing system, the acquired signals can be used to
reconstruct accurate 3-dimensional images of the embedded bars. These images show the depth and
alignment of the bars.
The age of the concrete does not affect the results, so it is possible to take measurements as soon as
the concrete is strong enough to support foot traffic. The presence of iron in the aggregates does not
interfere with the measurement process. Because measurements are based on sensing low amplitude
magnetic fields, precautions are necessary to ensure that magnetic materials, such as steel-toed
shoes, tools, and vehicles, are sufficiently distant from the measuring unit.
Method of operation
The Eddy-Dowel field system includes three principal components: 1) the measuring unit, 2) a
portable rail system; and 3) a handheld Pocket PC. Making a measurement of the bars crossing a
transverse of longitudinal joint is simple and rapid.
First, the mobile rail system is placed on the pavement so that it is centered along the joint. The rail
system is made of lightweight glass fiber reinforced plastic composite. Information about the testing
location and type of bars is entered into the Pocket PC. The measuring unit is placed at the starting
end of the rail system, and it is then pulled slowly over the rails at a steady speed (0.25 to 0.5 m/s).
49
Eddy-Dowel
Control of the measurement process and data acquisition is done by the Pocket PC, which
communicates wirelessly with the measuring unit. During a scan, the acquired data are shown on
the display of the Pocket PC for immediate feedback of data quality. After the scan is completed, the
program MagnoNorm, running on the Pocket PC, calculates the positions of the bars and displays a
table listing bar depth, bar spacing, and bar misalignment. The results can be printed immediately
on-site. Detailed reports of the measurements and three-dimensional images of bar positions and
alignment can be created with the post processing software MagnoProof. This Windows based
software allows rapid analysis of large quantities of data and includes tools for the analysis of bar
alignments that deviate greatly from planned locations. It can also assist in analyzing the results of
complex measurement situations such as crossing bars at the intersection of longitudinal and
transverse joints.
Application
Dowel bars are designed to allow load transfer across transverse joints cut into the slab but at the
same time allow pavement sections to expand and contract freely. Tie bars serve the same functions
across longitudinal joints. If the bars are not aligned properly these two functions are compromised
and joint failures may occur. The following figure shows five types of misalignments that are of
concern. Horizontal skew and vertical tilt are of especially problematic because they prevent the bars
from slipping freely across the joint and introduce restraint forces that can lead to joint spalling and
slab cracking.
Planned position
Actual position
x
y
Horizontal
translation
Joint
PLAN
Longitudinal
translation
(side shift)
z
Horizontal
skew
Vertical
translation
SECTION
Vertical tilt
The MagnoNorm software running on the Pocket PC analyzes rapidly the data acquired during a
scan and provides a gray-scale image and a summary table of the results. The gray-scale image is a
contour plot of signal amplitude (which is related to depth) as a function of distance from the
starting point. The contour plot provides an overall assessment of relative bar depth and bar
position. The image below on the left shows an example of a contour plot for bars with relatively
uniform depth and alignment, but irregular spacing. By changing the intensity level of the display,
50
Eddy-Dowel
different details can be viewed. The image on the right shows irregular contour plots due to
variations of bar depth.
The table of results provides the following information about each bar:
Eddy-Dowel Specifications
Measurement
Depth
Side shift
Horizontal translation
Vertical translation
Measurement range
Accuracy
110 to 190 mm
80 mm maximum
40 mm maximum
40 mm maximum
4 mm
8 mm
4 mm
4 mm
Operating conditions
Operating temperature
Storage temperature
Humidity
Daily output
-5 to 50 C
-10 to 50 C
Operates on wet surfaces and young concrete
500 to 600 joints for 16 m joint length
Order #
Measuring unit
Size 1160 x 655 x 95 mm
Weight 16.5 kg
12 V rechargeable battery (8 h operating time; 4 h recharging time)
Carrying case
Manual
ED-2001
Rail system
Segment length 1 m
Rail width 1.18 m
Total length 10 m standard
Wheeled cross ties
Carrying case
ED-2002
Pocket PC
Large battery pack
Memory card
USB cable
MagnoNorm and MagnoProof software
Manual
ED-2003
51
Eddy-Thick
Purpose
Eddy-Thick is lightweight portable device for measuring the
thickness of concrete slabs-on-ground. The device was also
developed by MIT Mess- und Prftechnik GmbH. The system
uses metal targets that are placed on the supporting base
before concrete is placed. After the concrete has hardened
sufficiently to support the weight of a person, the instrument
is used to locate the target and then to measure the thickness
of the slab. Eddy-Thick can be used for the following
purposes:
Measurement of pavement thickness in support of
performance-based specifications
Measurement of slab thickness for the purpose of
determining the stress-wave velocity of the concrete for
use with stress-wave based methods for measuring
thickness at other locations
On-site quality control of pavement thickness
Principle
Eddy-Thick is based on the pulse-induction
technique that is used for measuring cover over
reinforcing bars (see page 33). In this case, eddy
currents are induced in a metal plate (target)
resting on the base instead of reinforcing bars in
the concrete. For a given target, the amplitude of
the signal induced by the decaying eddy currents
in the target is proportional to the distance from
the surface to the plate. Targets can be round or
rectangular pieces of aluminum foil or plates of
aluminum or steel. The target material and target
size will affect the amplitude of the response for a
given concrete thickness. Before using the
instrument, the operator uses the menu system to
select the target from a pre-defined list. If a target
is used that is not included in the pre-defined targets, a standardization procedure is required to
define a correction factor to be applied to the depth calculated using a pre-defined target (see the
FHWA reference at the end of this section).
The sensor head of the instrument is housed a three-wheeled enclosure that is rolled along the
concrete surface. The head includes four sensors that make many measurements as the head passes
over the target. From the multiple measurements and the known characteristics of the target, the
depth of the target is calculated and shown on the LCD on the instrument handle. The depth
measurement accuracy is 0.5 % of the measured value plus 1 mm. For example, for a 200 mm
nominal depth slab, the measurement accuracy is 2 mm.
Because of the high sensitivity of the instrument, there should not be any other embedded metal
objects within 1 m of the target plate. In addition, there should be no parked vehicles within 2 m and
no construction equipment within least 4 m of the test point. Operators should not wear steel-toed
shoes because they can affect instrument response. Measurement accuracy is not affected by wet
surfaces and measurements can be made on hydraulic cement concrete or asphalt cement concrete.
Method of operation
The targets are placed on the prepared base before concrete placement. The number and locations of
targets depend on the purpose of the thickness measurements and should be stated clearly in the
contract documents for the project. The size of the target to be used depends on the nominal
52
Eddy-Thick
thickness to be measured. The following circular targets made of 0.65 mm thick sheet metal are
available for different slab thickness measurements:
Target ID
Target
Diameter, mm
Depth Measurement
Range, mm
ST RO 07
70
15 to 120
ST RO 12
120
40 to 180
ST RO 30
300
120 to 350
SEARCHThis mode is used to locate the approximate center of the embedded target.
MEASUREMENTThis mode is used to measure the depth of the target.
In the SEARCH mode, the sensor head is elevated above the concrete surface and moved across the
surface in a sweeping motion as is done with a common "metal detector." The instrument is in a
continuous sampling mode and the LCD shows a bar graph of the amplitude of each of the four
sensors. When the head is located at the approximate center of the target, each bar will have equal
amplitude.
After the target is located, the sensor head is positioned on the surface of the concrete at
approximately 300 mm in front of the target edge. Eddy-Thick is then placed in the
MEASUREMENT mode, and the search head is rolled over the target until the sensor head is about
1.8 m from the start position. During the scan, data are automatically recorded. When data recording
is completed, the depth is calculated and displayed in the LCD. The following summarizes the
measurement process:
MEASUREMENT mode to
measure thickness
53
Eddy-Thick
Evaluations
Eddy-Thick (also called MIT Scan T-2) was evaluated by the FHWA Concrete Pavement Technology
Program and by Caltrans. In both cases, it was concluded that the device was easy to use and
resulted in accurate thickness measurements (see References).
Eddy-Thick Specifications
Order #
ET-001
Battery recharger
Microcontroller firmware
User manual
ET-002
ET-003
ET-004
ET-005
Targets: diameter
70 mm
ET-ST R0-07
120 mm
ET-ST R0-12
300 mm
ET-ST R0-30
References
FHWA Concrete Pavement Technology Program, 2009, "TechBrief: Determination of
Concrete Pavement Thickness Nondestructively Using the Magnetic Imaging Tomography
Technique," www.fhwa.dot.gov/pavement/concrete/pubs/hif09023/index.cfm
Rao, S. and Kumar, T., 2007, "Final ReportMethod to Determine Pavement Thickness
Using Recommended Technology," Division of Engineering Services, Caltrans, Sacramento,
CA.
54
ERE-Probe
Purpose
The ERE-Probe is a reference half-cell that is embedded in concrete and can be used to:
Monitor the reinforcement potentials in critical areas for corrosion such as construction joints,
splash zones in marine structures, bridge decks, and bottoms of bridge columns exposed to
ingress of chlorides
Monitor the efficiency of cathodic protection
Monitor the ingress of the depassivation front, due to chloride penetration or carbonation, in
combination with installing the CorroWatch (see page 32)
Principle
The ERE-Probe (Embeddable Reference Electrode) is a stable, long life reference electrode for
monitoring the half-cell potential of reinforcement. It is based on a manganese dioxide electrode in a
steel housing with a chloride-free, alkaline gel and having a porous cement plug at one end. The
housing is made from a corrosion resistant material. Diffusion of ions through the porous cement
plug is low because the pH of the alkaline gel corresponds to that of pore water in normal concrete.
The diameter of the ERE-Probe is 20 mm and the length is 85 mm
MnO2
Alkaline
solution
Porous cement
plug
In new structures, the ERE-Probe is attached to the reinforcement by plastic straps before
placement of the concrete. In existing structures, a hole is drilled to the required depth and the
ERE-Probe is embedded using an appropriate mortar. A high impedance voltmeter is used to
measure the half-cell potential between the probe and the reinforcement.
Accuracy and variation
At 23 C in a saturated Ca(OH)2 solution, the potential of the ERE-Probe is +160 mV 20 mV
versus a saturated calomel electrode (SCE). The in-place operating temperature is from 0 C to
+40 C.
Over a long period of time, the variation of each ERE-Probe is within 5 mV compared with the
initial value at the same temperature and for the same electrolyte environment. The expected life
time is 100 years.
Testing Example
ERE-Probe Ordering Numbers
Item
ERE-Probe with 3 meter cable
ERE-Probe with 5 meter cable
ERE-Probe with 10 meter cable
Order #
ERE-Probe-3
ERE-Probe-5
ERE-Probe-10
55
EyeCon
Purpose
EyeCon is a portable hand-held instrument for
flaw detection and thickness measurement. It is
based on the ultrasonic pitch-catch method and
uses an antenna composed of an array of dry
point contact (DPC) transducers, which emit
shear waves into the concrete. Test results can
be displayed as individual A-Scans (reflection
amplitude versus time or depth) or as B-scans
showing the cross section of the test object
along a scan line. EyeCon can be used for the
following applications:
Thickness measurement
Detection of voids in grouted tendon ducts
Detection of poor quality bond in overlays
and repairs
Detection of delaminations
Detection of voids and honeycombing in concrete members
Principle
EyeCon is based on the ultrasonic pulse-echo
method using transmitting and receiving
transducers in a "pitch-catch" configuration as
illustrated on page 87. EyeCon uses an antenna
composed of 24 transducers arranged in a 4 by 6
array as shown to the right. Each transducer is
independently spring loaded to conform to surface
irregularities. As is shown below, the first three
rows of transducers act as transmitters and the
other three rows act as receivers. By using the
multiple transmitters and receivers, the signalnoise ratio is improved because random reflections
from aggregate particles will tend to cancel, while
reflections from large concrete-air interfaces will
be superimposed.
The averaged signal recorded by the
receiving transducers is stored in the
hand-held unit as a time-domain
waveform. An example of such a
waveform is shown at the top of the
next page. In this case, the test was
done on a solid concrete slab with a
thickness of about 200 mm. The
figure on the left side of the next
page shows signal amplitude as a
function of time (A-Scan). The three
peaks are due to multiple reflections
of the pulse by the back wall (bottom) of the slab. The figure on the right is the rectified version of
the signal in which the negative portion of the original signal is plotted as a positive signal. EyeCon
allows the user to display the signal as recorded originally (left side) or as a rectified signal. The
latter is preferred because it allows more detail in the display. These time-domain signals of the
received pulse are used to measure the solid thickness or detect the presence of voids or cracks
within the test object.
56
EyeCon
Rectified A-Scan
Amplitude
Amplitude
A-Scan
100
200
300
400
500
600
Time, s
100
200
300
400
500
600
Time, s
The use of a 4 by 6 array of point transducers to introduce into the concrete pulses of shear
waves with a nominal center frequency of 50 kHz. The use of the array increases the signalnoise ratio at the test point.
The transducers are spring loaded to conform to an irregular surface, and they do not require a
coupling medium, that is, testing is done in the dry.
The signals captured by the antenna are stored as a time-domain waveforms (A-Scans).
Signals captured in a 2-dimensionl scan can be displayed on the hand-held unit as a black and
white cross section of the test object (B-Scan) along each scan line.
Data can be transferred to a computer for subsequent analysis and construction of a 3dimensional view of reflecting interfaces with color to represent different signal amplitudes.
Method of operation
The handheld unit includes a 320 by 240 pixel LCD with backlighting. Setup parameters for
recording and displaying signals are entered using a menu system. These parameters can be stored
in memory for reuse. A series of icons is used to select the active display mode for the instrument.
There are two basic display modes for the EyeCon:
A-ScanThis display mode is used to show the results of individual measurements. The
amplitude of the received signal can be displayed as a function of time or as a function of
distance (depth) if the shear-wave speed is known. The signal can be displayed in its actual form
or in rectified form (preferred). There are two A-Scan display modes: REVIEW and ZOOM. These
are described later.
B-ScanThis display mode uses the stored A-Scan records to create cross-sectional views along
scan lines. There are two modes available: BAND for displaying the cross section along a single
scan line and MAP for displaying cross sections along a series of parallel scan lines. These are
also described later.
To carry out an inspection of a concrete member, the
user first lays out a 2-dimensional grid on the testing
surface. The grid lines should have the same spacing
(step) in both directions. The step spacing depends on
the size of defects to be detected, with a smaller
spacing for smaller defects. The long axis of the
antenna is oriented perpendicular to the scan direction
and data are recorded at each step along each scan
line. The grid layout (step distance, number of steps
per line, and the number of lines) is entered into the
hand-held unit and that information is used in
referencing the displayed test results to the testing
position on the test object.
57
EyeCon
58
EyeCon
ZOOMThis display mode shows the
full signal in the top half of the display. The
bottom half of the display is an expanded view
of the portion of the signal within the selected
window. The user defines the location and
length of the window. The right side of the
display shows the shear-wave speed entered
during instrument setup. The depth and time
corresponding to the position of the horizontal
cursor is shown in the upper right corner.
59
EyeCon
EyeCon Specifications
Dry point contact shear-wave transducers with ceramic wearing tip
50 kHz center frequency
Transducers are spring loaded to conform to rough surfaces
Antenna array: 4 by 6
Maximum testing depth: 600 mm
Error in depth measurement: less than 10 %
Rechargeable batteries
Time for one measurement and saving to memory: 10 s
Saves up to 200 non-rectified A-Scans
320 240 pixel black and white LCD
Backlight illumination
A-Scan and B-Scan display
Operating temperature -20 C to 45 C
Connection for data transfer to computer
Software for 3-D visualization on PC
EyeCon Ordering Numbers
Item
Order #
EYE-1001
Antenna array (4 by 6)
EYE-1002
Cables
EYE -1003
Battery charger
EYE -1004
AC adapter
EYE -1005
Software on CD-ROM
EYE -1006
User manual
EYE -1007
EYE -1008
60
GalvaPulse
Purpose
The GalvaPulse is used to measure the corrosion rate of reinforcement in concrete for the following
typical applications:
Monitoring corrosion activity in reinforced concrete structures
Service life estimation
Evaluating the efficiency of corrosion arresting measures such as application of inhibitors,
membranes, or electrochemical removal of chlorides
Condition surveys of suspect reinforced structures, especially structures in wet environments
where the classic potential mapping may provide misleading or insufficient information
Measuring corrosion activity in repaired areas
Principle
The GalvaPulse evaluates the corrosion rate of reinforcement by measuring polarization resistance
using the galvanostatic pulse technique, as described below.
Reference
Electrode
300
Emax
IRP
Guard Ring
Voltage, mV
200
Counter
Electrode
Sponge
100
IRo
0
-100
Ecorr
-200
0
Time, s
A current pulse I is imposed on the reinforcement from a counter electrode placed on the concrete
surface. A guard ring confines the current to an area A of the reinforcement below the central
counter electrode.
The applied current is usually in the range of 5 to 400 A and the typical pulse duration is 5 to 10
seconds. The reinforcement is polarized in the anodic direction compared to its free corrosion
potential, Ecorr. The resulting change of the electrochemical potential of the reinforcement is
recorded as a function of time using a reference electrode (Ag/AgCl). A typical potential response for
reinforcement actively corroding is shown in the right figure above.
When the current is applied to the system, there is an ohmic potential drop IRo as well as change in
potential due to polarization of the reinforcement, IRp. The polarization resistance of the
reinforcement Rp is calculated by curve fitting to the transient portion of the potential data. By
means of the Stern-Geary equation for active corrosion (Icorr = (26 A)/Rp) and Faradays law of
electrochemical equivalence, the corrosion rate is estimated as:
Corrosion Rate (m/year) = 11.6 Icorr /A
where A is the confined area (in cm2) of the reinforcement below the central counter electrode. The
factor 11.6 is for black steel.
The value of Ro, the electrical resistance of the concrete between the counter electrode and the
reinforcement, is also determined.
61
GalvaPulse
Variation and Accuracy
The half-cell potential is measured to an accuracy of 5 mV with the Ag/AgCl electrode. The
electrical resistance is estimated to be measured with an accuracy of 5 %.
The accuracy of the corrosion rate estimation can only be evaluated by comparison with actual mass
loss measurement of the reinforcement subjected to long term corrosion conditions. One such
laboratory investigation produced the following comparison between corrosion rates calculated from
measured mass loss measurements and from the GalvaPulse.
Mass Loss
GalvaPulse
53
36
56
29
A+B connected
55
61
The findings support the general conclusion that the GalvaPulse is accurate well within a factor of
two for estimating the corrosion rate in anodic areas. In addition, other uncertainties should be
taken into account when evaluating on-site test results, e.g., the actual area of the reinforcement
being polarized and the variation over time in corrosion rates due variation in temperature and
moisture conditions.
In passive regions (corrosion rates < 1 m/year), the GalvaPulse will overestimate the corrosion
rate by a factor of 3 to 4. Such areas are, however, not interesting in terms of corrosion.
In a long term field study, 30-year old bridge columns subjected to deicing salts were examined
regularly over a 20-year period since corrosion began. The chloride levels and moisture content in the
concrete of the bridge were high. When the last measurements were performed, the temperature was
15C and the following test results were obtained.
Corrosion Rate A/cm2
200
166
Dra in
133
100
66
33
30
1 8 -2 0
60
90
1 6 -1 8
120
1 4 -1 6
150
1 2 -14
180
1 0 -1 2
210
8 -1 0
240
6 -8
270
4 -6
2 -4
300
330
0
360
0 to 2 kOhm
0 -2
Resistance KOhm
200
2 00
166
-450 to -500 mV
0
- 5 0 0 -- 4 5 0
30
-4 50 --4 00
60
90
-4 0 0 - -3 5 0
120
- 3 5 0 - -3 0 0
150
180
- 3 0 0 -- 2 5 0
210
- 2 5 0 -- 2 0 0
240
-2 0 0 - - 1 5 0
270
300
- 1 5 0 - -1 0 0
330
- 1 0 0 -- 5 0
1 66
133
1 33
100
1 00
66
66
33
33
0
360
-5 0 - 0
0
0 -5 0
5 0 -1 0 0
1 0 0 -1 5 0
30
60
90
1 20
0-15
1 50
15 -3 0
180
30 -4 5
4 5-60
21 0
6 0-75
24 0
27 0
3 00
3 30
0
360
75 -9 0
The fairly constant corrosion rate measured over the 20-yr period corresponds to a cross section loss
of the reinforcement of 20 yeras times 0.22 mm/y = 4.4 mm. Removal of concrete at several locations
at the bottom of the columns revealed approximately 4 mm cross section loss of the reinforcement.
62
GalvaPulse
The GalvaPulse Features
Reliable evaluation of reinforcement corrosion in anaerobic concrete environment
Lightweight, handheld equipment, easy to operate
Two operation modes: one for speedy measurement using only half-cell potentials and electrical
resistance (1 to 2 s/test), and another for corrosion rate, half-cell potentials and electrical
resistance (5 to 10 s/test). The first mode is normally used to identify the anodic and the cathodic
areas, while the second mode is used in anodic areas, where the corrosion rate is a decisive
parameter to be measured
Testing on rough or curved surfaces
Storage capacity of up to 20,000 records in the handheld computer
Easy-to-use Windows based software for presentation of the test results in 2D or 3D color
graphics
Portable system including calibration unit and a check block with embedded stainless steel and
corroding black steel bars
Testing Examples
63
GalvaPulse
Examples of the Graphic Displays to View GalvaPulse Data
Order #
GP-5010
GP-5020
GP-5031
GP-5040
GP-5050
GP-5060
GP-5070
GP-5080
GP-5090
GP-5100
GP-5110
GP-5120
GP-5130
GP-5140
GP-5150
GP-5160
GP-5170
GP-5180
GP-5190
GP-5200
64
Guardian
Purpose
Guardian is a system to measure the temperatures, temperature differences and maturity values
during hardening of a structure at critical locations, such as those identified by Be4Cast simulations
(see page 13).
Guardian allows strength estimation at an early age as well, provided the strength-maturity
relationship for the concrete mixture used in the structure has been established and programmed
into the software.
Alarms stored in the Guardian software alert the operator if preset temperatures or temperature
differences have been exceeded. The Guardian also permits automatic control of cooling or heating
measures designed by Be4Cast simulations.
The Guardian can perform other monitoring and surveillance tasks such as recording wind speed,
relative humidity, barometric pressure, water levels, strains, corrosion parameters, and crack
movement. Any device providing an appropriate electrical output can be monitored.
Principle
Thermocouples are installed at pre-established locations in the structure and connected to the data
logger. The Guardian software is installed on a PC with a Windows operating system.
Temperatures are recorded by the data logger at desired time intervals from the time of casting. The
data are transferred to a PC, either by a cable connection to the logger or by a wireless modem
connection, allowing remote monitoring of the temperatures and other measured parameters.
Several users may be working on the same project simultaneously allowing, for example, setting up
the measurement scheme at one site while at the same time monitoring in-situ measurements at
another site.
Guardian
Guardian
Cooling
water outlet
Network
Modem
Data logger
Cooling
water inlet
Bridge deck
Wall cast on
cold foundation
65
Guardian
Data Logger
The data logger is kept on-site in a watertight case, allowing it to operate in all kinds of weather
conditions.
Each logger can accommodate up has 48 channels. The amount of data that can be recorded is
limited only by the amount of RAM in the computer. The unit has a back-up battery ensuring
continuous operation should a power outage occur.
Order #
Guardian software
G-3000
G-3200
G-3250
G-3300
G-3500
G-3600
G-3700
66
GWT
Purpose
The GWT (Germann Water permeation Test) is used for on-site evaluation of
The water permeation of the skin-concrete in finished structure
The water permeation of masonry panels
The water tightness of construction joints and sealed control joints
Effectiveness of water proofing membranes
Principle
The GWT measures the permeation of
water into the test surface under an
applied pressure.
A pressure chamber containing a
watertight gasket is secured tightly to
the surface by two anchored clamping
pliers or by means of a suction plate.
Alternatively, the gasket may be bonded
to the surface with an adhesive.
The chamber is filled with water and the
filling valve is closed. The top cap of the
chamber is turned until a desired water
pressure is displayed on the gauge. As
water permeates into the concrete, the
selected pressure is maintained by
means of a micrometer gauge pushing a
piston into the chamber. The piston
movement compensates for the volume of
water penetrating into the material.
The travel of the piston as a function time is used to characterize the permeation of the test surface.
Application Examples
1. Permeation of Concrete Surface
High-performance concrete being tested with the GWT. The four adjacent conical holes are from the
CAPO-TEST. At a pressure of 1 bar or 100 kPa (left photo), water was observed to penetrate
through surface cracks. After grinding off a 1.5 mm layer of the surface, the test was repeated (right
photo), and the pressure was increased to 5 bar or 500 kPa. No penetration through cracks was
observed. A water flux of 1.310-5 mm/s was measured.
67
GWT
0.020
0 % SF
5 % SF
10 % SF
0.015
0.010
0.005
0.000
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Temperature, oC
3. Masonry Permeability
The GWT is shown being used for testing the water tightness of a brick
masonry wall. During rain and for a normal wind pressure, water
penetrated the wall. The problem was shown to be the related to the brick
units, not to the mortar joints. The brick units had been burned at a
higher temperature than normal to produce the required color, but the
higher temperature increased the permeability of the brick.
68
Order #
GWT-4010
GWT-4020
GWT-4030
GWT-4050
GWT-4060
GWT-4080
GWT-4090
GWT-4100
GWT-4110
GWT-4120
GWT-4130
GWT-4140
GWT-4150
Item
Suction plate &
vacuum pump
Hammer drill
GRA glue, box
Order #
GWT-4230
GWT-4240
GWT-4250
HUM-Meter
Purpose
The HUM-Meter is used to monitor the internal moisture content in concrete for evaluation of:
The corrosion process of reinforcement, because moisture content is one of the parameters that
affects corrosion rate
The effectiveness of drying procedures for arresting the progress of harmful reactions, such as
ASR (alkali silica reaction), that depend on moisture
The effectiveness of methods used to dry the concrete substrate before application of a moisture
sensitive covering
Principle
To measure internal moisture content, sensors are
installed into holes drilled into the concrete. The
system is based on measuring the electrical resistance
between two graphite probes or between a graphite
probe and the reinforcement. The measured
resistance and the known distance between the
probes (or between a probe and reinforcement) are
used to calculate the resistivity of the concrete and
the moisture content is determined using a
calibration relationship. The calibration relationship
can be established experimentally for a given
concrete, or approximate empirical relationships can
be used for common concretes.
The graphite probes are 12 mm in diameter and 20 mm long. The holes are drilled to the depth
where moisture content is to be determined.
Precision and accuracy
The accuracy of the moisture content measured by the HUM-Meter with graphite probes is 1 % for
concrete with a water-cement ratio of 0.50. For concretes with other w/c values, the accuracy has to
be evaluated by specific correlations developed on cores. The coefficient of variation of replicate test
results is about 5 %.
Testing Example
% Moisture at Reinforcement
10.0
9.5
9.0
8.5
8.0
7.5
7.0
0
10
15
20
Time, months
25
30
69
HUM-Meter
The HUM-Meter and Ordering Numbers
Item
Digital meter with AC converter
Cables, 2 pcs
Temperature probe
HUM-Graphite Probes, 10 pcs.
Bushings for surface installation, 10 pcs
Attachment pin, 20 mm long, 10 pcs
Attachment pin, 40 mm long, 10 pcs
Attachment pin, 140 mm long, 10 pcs
Probe installation shaft, 300 mm long
Silicone tube
Drill bits: 12 mm and 18 mm
Reinforcement locator
Reinforcement adaptor
Allen key, 10 mm
Rubber ball dust remover
Manual
Attach case
Order #
H-10010
H-10020
H-10030
H-10040
H-10050
H-10060
H-10070
H-10080
H-10090
H-10100
H-10110
H-10120
H-10130
H-10140
H-10150
H-10160
H-10170
70
H-10000 HUM-Meter
ICAR Rheometer
Principle
Fresh concrete can be considered as a fluid, which means
that it will flow under the action of shear stresses. The flow
behavior of concrete can be represented by the following
two-parameter relationship = 0 + , which is
known as the Bingham model: The parameter o is the
yield stress, and it represents the shear stress required to
initiate flow. The slope of the line is the plastic viscosity,
, and it affects the resistance to flow after the yield stress
has been surpassed. These two parameters, which define
the flow curve, provide a complete description of the flow
behavior of a concrete mixture.
Purpose
The ICAR Rheometer is a rugged, portable
instrument for measuring fundamental flow
(rheological) properties of fresh concrete. The
instrument was developed at the International
Center for Aggregate Research (ICAR) located at
The University of Texas at Austin to fill the need for
a method to characterize the true flow behavior of
concrete mixtures. The traditional methods of
measuring slump or slump flow are not capable of
characterizing
the
fundamental
rheological
properties of concrete during the processes of
mixing, transporting, and placement. As a result,
the true performance of innovative concrete
mixtures cannot be measured with these traditional
slump-based methods. The ICAR Rheometer
provides, for the first time, a low-cost and simple to
operate instrument that can be used for:
Research and development to characterize the influence of new materials on concrete rheology
Optimizing mixture proportions so that the resulting concrete flows readily but is resistant to
segregation (especially important for self-consolidating concrete)
On-site quality control
+
0
Shear strain rate, , (1/s)
71
ICAR Rheometer
The ICAR Rheometer is designed
to characterize the static yield
stress, the dynamic yield stress
and plastic viscosity of the
concrete. A high static yield stress is
desirable
because
it
reduces
formwork pressure and increases
the resistance to segregation. But
for ease of pumping, placement, and
self consolidation, a low dynamic
yield stress is necessary. The
dynamic
viscosity
provides
cohesiveness and contributes to
reducing segregation when concrete
is flowing. The schematic plot to the
right shows dynamic flow curves for
conventional concrete and different types of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) mixtures. The
conventional concrete has a high dynamic yield stress and additional energy (vibration) is needed for
consolidation after the concrete is placed in forms. The self-consolidating mixtures all have low
dynamic yield stress and will consolidate due to self-weight, but they have different rheological
properties. The SCC with a high plastic viscosity (red line) will be sticky and difficult to finish. On
the other hand, the mixture with low plastic viscosity (green line) will be prone to segregation. Thus
by determining the dynamic flow curves of concretes with different mixture proportions and type of
admixtures, and optimum balance between ease of flow and resistance to segregation can be
realized. These types of determinations cannot be done using conventional slump-based tests.
Method of operation
The ICAR Rheometer is composed of
a container to hold the fresh concrete,
a driver head that includes an electric
motor and torque meter; a four-blade
vane that is held by the chuck on the
driver; a frame to attach the
driver/vane assembly to the top of the
container; and a laptop computer to
operate the driver, record the torque
Computer
during the test, and calculate the flow
parameters. The container contains a
series of vertical rods around the
perimeter to prevent slipping of the
concrete along the container wall
during the test. The size of the
container and length of the vane shaft
Frame
are selected based on the nominal
maximum size of the aggregate. The
vane has a diameter and a height of 127 mm.
Driver
Container
Vane
Two types of tests can be performed. The first is a stress growth test in which the vane is rotated
at a constant slow speed of 0.025 rev/s. The initial increase of torque is measured as a function of
time. The maximum torque measured during the test is used to calculate the static yield stress.
The other type of test is a flow curve test to determine the dynamic yield stress and the plastic
viscosity. The flow curve test begins with a breakdown period in which the vane is rotated at
maximum speed. This is done to breakdown any thixotropic structure that may exist and to provide
a consistent shearing history before measuring the Bingham parameters. The vane speed is then
decreased in a specified number of steps, which is selected by the user but at least six steps are
72
ICAR Rheometer
recommended. During each step the speed is held constant and the average speed and torque are
recorded. The plot of torque versus speed of vane rotation is the flow curve.
The ICAR Rheometer software performs all the necessary functions: operates the driver, records
the torque, computes test results, and stores data. For simplicity, the entire program is operated
from a single screen as shown below. The user defines the test geometry and provides the test
parameters to run the flow curve test. A simple press of the Start button initiates the tests, which
takes less than 1 minute to complete.
Test results
Example results
The figure on the left shows the results of a stress growth test. The peak torque and test geometry
are used to calculate the static yield stress, which is displayed at the bottom of the computer display.
The figure on the right shows the plot of the average torque and average vane rotation measured
during six steps of decreasing vane speed. The software computes a best-fit line to the data and
reports the intercept and slope as relative parameters. The software also computes the Bingham
parameters: dynamic yield stress and plastic viscosity.
12
4.0
3.5
3.0
Torque, N-m
Torque, N-m
10
6
4
2
0
2.5
2.0
1.5
1.0
0.5
10
15
20
25
0.0
30
Time, s
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
73
0.6
0.7
ICAR Rheometer
ICAR Rheometer Specifications
Requires that concrete have slump greater than 50 to 75 mm, otherwise the concrete is too stiff
for testing by the apparatus
Nominal maximum size of aggregate: 32 mm for largest available container
Vane rotation speed: 0.001 to 0.6 rev/s
Performs static stress growth test and dynamic flow curve tests
Software control tests and computes static yield stress, dynamic yield stress, and plastic viscosity
in fundamental units
Test time: 1 minute
ICAR Rheometer Kit Ordering Numbers
Item
Order #
RHM-3001
RHM-3002
RHM-3003
RHM-3005
RHM-3009
RHM-3012
RHM-3013
Software on CD-ROM
RHM-3014
User manual
RHM-3015
RHM-3016
RHM-3017
Ordering numbers for container and vane for different nominal maximum size of
aggregate (NMSA)
Nominal Maximum Size of Aggregate
12.5 mm
Container
Diameter/Height
Vane
Overall length
19.0 mm
25.0 mm
32 mm
RHM-3004
RHM-3005*
RHM-3006
RHM-3007
280 mm/280 mm
305 mm/312 mm
355 mm/380 mm
405 mm/460 mm
RHM-3008
RHM-3009*
RHM-3010
RHM-3011
235 mm
240 mm
290 mm
330 mm
74
LOK-TEST
Purpose
The LOK-TEST system is used to obtain a reliable estimate of the in-place strength of concrete in
newly cast structures in accordance with the pullout test method described in ASTM C900, BS
1881:207, or EN 12504-3. Two principal uses of LOK-TEST are for:
55 mm
25 mm
Determining whether in-place concrete strength is sufficient for early application of loads, such
as due to formwork removal, application of prestressing.
Determining whether the in-place strength is sufficient for terminating curing and thermal
protection.
Evaluating the quality of the critical cover layer protecting the reinforcement in the finished
structure.
25 mm
Principle
A steel disc, 25 mm in diameter at a depth of 25 mm, is
pulled centrally against a 55 mm diameter counter
pressure ring bearing on the surface. The force F required
to pullout the insert is measured. The concrete in the
strut between the disc and the counter pressure ring is
subjected to a compressive load. Therefore the pullout
force F is related directly to the compressive strength.
120
100
100
80
60
40
20
0
80
60
40
20
0
20
40
60
80
100
Pullout Load, kN
10
20
30
40
50
60
Pullout Load, kN
Source: Petersen, C.G., LOK-Test and CAPO-Test Pullout Testing: Twenty Years
Experience, Conference on Non-Destructive Testing in Civil Engineering, Liverpool, UK, April
1997, British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing
75
70
LOK-TEST
The general correlations shown in the following figure will provide sufficient accuracy for all normal
density concrete mixtures. Project specifications, however, may require development of mixture
specific correlations. In this case, ACI 228.1R can be be used to develop such relationships.
100
80
= 0.76 F
1.16
cube
60
f = 0.69 F
1.12
cyl
40
20
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Pullout Load, kN
At the 95 % confidence level and for an average of 4 tests, the estimated compressive strength based
on the LOK-TEST and the general correlations indicated above is within 6 % of the strength
measured from tests of standard specimen (cylinders or cubes) for a maximum aggregate size of 38
mm. The coefficient of variation of individual LOK-TEST results is about 8 % for normal density
concrete.
Example Applications
76
Testing for in-place quality control on a slab. The L49 floating insert was used. Maturity was measured
with the COMA-Meter, shown in front of
technicians knee
LOK-TEST
0 50 kN Inserts
Item
Control insert
Early stripping insert with L-44
steel plate
Disc and stem, thread locked and
coated
Floating insert
0 100 kN Inserts
Order #
Item
L-40
L-42
Control insert
Early stripping insert with L-44
steel plate
Disc and stem, thread locked and
coated
Floating insert
L-45
L-49
Order #
L-41
L-43
L-46
L-50
Inserts may be re-used provided the discs are thread locked to the stems and coated with a coating
agent, L-29, before re-use. For complete pulling out of discs from the concrete, a separate travel ring,
L-26, is available. For testing 0 to 100 kN inserts, a special high-strength pull bolt with flange is
needed, L-17-1, along with the high-strength coupling device C-141.
77
LOK-TEST
LOK-TEST Kits and Ordering Numbers
Three types of hydraulic pull machines are available in the L-10, L-11 and L-12 LOK-TEST kits.
L-10 LOK-TEST Kit
The L-10 hydraulic, hand-operated pull machine comes with a calibrated 0 to 40 kN analog dial
gauge. Alternatively, the instrument can be supplied with a 0 to 25 kN gauge (Order No. L-10-1) or a
0 to 60 kN gauge (Order No. L-10-3). The accuracy of the pull machine is within 0.6 %.
Item
Hydraulic pull machine with
analog gauge (0 to 40 kN)
Centering plate
Coupling
Pull bolt
Stem removal tool
Bolt handle
Adjustable pliers
Oil refilling cup
Oil refilling bottle
Large screwdriver
Small screwdriver
Calibration table
Manual
Attach case
Order #
L-10-2
L-15
L-16
L-17
L-18
L-19
L-20
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
L-32
L-33
L-34
78
Order #
L-11-1
L-13
L-14
L-15
L-16
L-17
L-18
L-19
L-20
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
L-32
L-33
L-34
LOK-TEST
L-12 LOK-TEST Kit
The L-12-1 pull machine features an automatic loading rate that ensures consistent testing speed in
accordance with testing standards. The machine has a 0 to 100 kN precision electronic gauge with
memory for storage of test results (peak-value, time, and date of testing). The peak-value is
displayed after a test has been terminated. The internal resolution of the gauge is 0.01 kN. The
display, however, shows the pull force to the nearest 0.1 kN.
Item
Hydraulic pull machine with
electronic gauge
AMIGAS printout software
Cable for printout
Centering plate
Coupling
Pull bolt
Stem removal tool
Bolt handle
Adjustable pliers
Oil refilling cup
Oil refilling bottle
Large screwdriver
Small screwdriver
Calibration table
Manual
Attach case
Order #
L-12-1
L-13
L-14
L-15
L-16
L-17
L-18
L-19
L-20
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
L-32
L-33
L-34
Note: The LOK-TEST pull machines may also be used for other types of tests that require
application of a tensile load. These include the following Germann Instruments test systems: the
CAPO-TEST, the BOND-TEST, the TORQ-TEST, the DSS-TEST and the POWER. The
recommended pull machine for all the tests is the L-11-1 hydraulic pull machine supplied in the L11 LOK-TEST Kit.
Load Verification Unit
The calibration of a pull machine needs to be verified at least once a year, after servicing, and after
repair. The L-30 Load Verification Unit has a working range of 0 to 100 kN. The load is displayed to
the nearest 0.1 kN. The unit comes with a certificate verifying the accuracy of its calibration. The L30 unit ensures that the load displayed by the pull machine is within 2 % of the actual load, as
required by ASTM C900.
79
Merlin
Purpose
The Merlin is one of the newest developments
by Germann Instruments. It is used to
measure the bulk electrical conductivity,
or its inverse, the bulk electrical resistivity,
of saturated 100 by 200 mm concrete cylinders
or cores. The test is simple to perform and a
test result is obtained within two seconds. The
conductivity of a saturated concrete specimen
provides information on the resistance of the
concrete to penetration of ionic species by
diffusion.
Merlin can be used for the following purposes:
Research and development to characterize
the influence of new materials on the
electrical conductivity of concrete
Optimizing mixture proportions and supplementary cementitious materials to increase concrete
service life
On-site quality control and quality assurance
Evaluation of in-place concrete (using cores).
Principle
L
The electrical resistance R of a conductor of length L and
uniform cross-sectional area A is given by the equation
shown in the figure to the right. The quantity is called
L
the electrical resistivity and is a material property,
A
R
=
D
=
(1)
p Dw
where
D = bulk diffusion coefficient of the specific type of ion through the porous material, and
Dw = diffusion coefficient of the specific ion through water (Mills and Lobo 1989).
If the conductivity of the pore fluid is assumed to be similar among different concretes, the measured
bulk electrical conductivity is related directly to the bulk diffusion coefficient (Berke and Hicks
1992). Measurement of the bulk diffusion coefficient of a particular type of ion through concrete is a
time consuming process, while electrical conductivity can be measured in a matter of seconds.
The electrical conductivity of saturated cement paste is related to the paste porosity (volume of pores
and how they are connected). The paste porosity is in turn related to the degree of hydration, the
types of cementitious materials, and the water-cementitious materials (w/cm) ratio. If electrical
measurements are made at a fixed degree of hydration for a given system of cementitious materials,
the measured conductivity is related to the w/cm.
80
Merlin
Method of operation
The following is a schematic of the measurement method incorporated in Merlin. The four-point
measurement method that is used provides an accurate measure of specimen resistance by
minimizing the effects of the conductive sponges and the pressure applied to the electrodes. The
specimen must be in a water-saturated condition to obtain a meaningful measurement.
Current
source
A
Ammeter
Sponge
Gap
I L
V A
(2)
V
Voltmeter
A 100 by 200 mm verification cylinder is provided to check that the Merlin system is operating
correctly. The cylinder includes a push button switch than can be used to select one of several
precision resistor from 10 to 1 M. For example, if the 1000 resistor is selected and the system
is functioning correctly, the conductivity reading of the verification cylinder should be 25.46 mS/m
and the resistivity should be 39.27 m.
Application
From the theoretical basis of the Merlin, it can be seen that measurement of the bulk electrical
conductivity of a saturated concrete specimen provides an indication of the diffusivity properties of
the concrete. If the test is conducted at a consistent degree of hydration for a given combination of
cementitious materials, the variation in measured bulk electrical conductivity can be used as an
indicator of variation of w/cm using a pre-established correlation. If the bulk electrical conductivity
of the approved concrete mixture for a project is known, that value can be used for quality control
and quality assurance. Thus Merlin can be considered as a surrogate test to verify the w/cm of a
specimen.
The bulk conductivity measured with Merlin is related directly to the charge passed through a
specimen as measured by ASTM C1202 using the PROOVEit system, provided that the current
remains constant during the 6 h test duration. This is typically not the case for highly conductive
concretes due to electrical heating of the specimen, which increases the pore fluid conductivity and
the current. If we assume that current is constant during a PROOVEit test, we can convert the
81
Merlin
ASTM C1202 coulomb limits for the different categories of "chloride ion penetrability" into bulk
conductivity limits using the following relationship:
QL
VtA
= charge passed in the PROOVEit test
= applied voltage in the PROOVEit test (60V)
= length of the PROOVEit specimen
= area of the PROOVEit specimen
= measurement time (6 h = 21,600 s) of the PROOVEit test
where
Q
V
L
A
t
(3)
The bulk resistivity limits can also be calculated by taking the inverse of the above equation.
For a specimen length of 50.8 mm and a diameter of 95 mm (the reference dimensions specified in
ASTM C1202), the conversion from charge passed using ASTM C1202 to bulk conductivity (Eq. 3)
and bulk resistivity values is as follows:
Charge passed using
PROOVEit, Coulombs
Merlin Bulk
Conductivity mS/m
Merlin Bulk
Resistivity m
50
100*
1,000*
2;000*
4,000*
10,000
0.28
0.55
5.50
11.00
22.00
55.01
3636
1818
181.8
90.89
45.45
18.18
It
is assumed that current is constant during the 6 h test duration, which is typically not true for
high conductivity concrete
*Limiting values in ASTM C1202 used to define different categories of "chloride ion penetrability"
(see page 101)
Test Data
Snyder et al. (2000) measured the charge passed
through 100 mm diameter cylindrical specimens
10000
in accordance with ASTM C1202 and used the
initial current during the test to calculate the
8000
bulk conductivity according to Eq. 2. This
calculated bulk conductivity is based on the
6000
same principle as used by Merlin. The cylinders
had lengths of 50 and 100 mm. The graph on the
4000
left shows the charge passed versus the bulk
conductivity. The solid lines represent the
2000
theoretical relationships between charge passed
and bulk conductivity as given by Eq. 3. It is
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60 seen that there are approximately linear
Conductivity (Initial RCPT), mS/m
relationships between charge passed and bulk
conductivity. The measured charges passed are,
however, greater than predicted by Eq. 3. This can be explained, in part, by heating of the
specimens. The concretes used by Snyder et al. (2000) had relatively high conductivities. As
explained above, specimens with high conductivity will heat up during the ASTM C1202 test. As
specimen temperature increases, the conductivity of the pore fluid increases and the current
increases. This leads to instability and a higher charge passed compared with a specimen kept at a
constant temperature.
Charge Passed, C
12000
L = 100 mm
L = 50 mm
Eq. 3
Eq. 3
Berke and Roberts (1989) also measured charge passed (AASHTO T-277, which is similar to ASTM
C1202) and specimen resistivity based on a polarization method. In this case the concretes that were
82
Merlin
Charge Passed, C
2000
1500
1000
500
Data
Eq. 3
0
0
4
6
8
10
Conductivity, mS/m
12
14
Berke, N.S. and Hicks, M.C., 1992, "Estimating the Life Cycle of Reinforced Concrete Decks and Marine Piles Using
Laboratory Diffusion and Corrosion Data," Corrosion Forms and Control for Infrastructure, ASTM STP1137, pp.
207-231, http://www.astm.org/DIGITAL_LIBRARY/STP/SOURCE_PAGES/STP1137.htm
Berke, N.S. and Roberts, L.R., 1989, "Use of Concrete Admixtures to Provide Long-Term Durability from Steel Corrosion,"
Third CANMET/ ACI International Conference on Superplasticizers and Other Chemical Admixtures in Concrete, Ed.
V.M. Malhotra, Ottawa, Canada, October 4-6, 1989, ACI SP 119, American Concrete Institute, p. 383-403.
Liu, Z. and Beaudoin, J. J., 2000, The Permeability of Cement Systems to Chloride Ingress and Related Test Methods,
Cement, Concrete, and Aggregates, CCAGDP, Vol. 22, No. 1, June, pp. 1623.
http://www.astm.org/DIGITAL_LIBRARY/JOURNALS/CEMENT/
R. Mills and V. M. M. Lobo, 1989, Self-Diffusion in Electrolyte Solutions, Elsevier, New York.
Nokken, M,R, and Hooton, R.D., 2006, "Electrical Conductivity Testing," Concrete International, October, pp. 58-63,
http://www.concreteinternational.com/pages/index.asp
Snyder, K.A., Ferraris, C. Martys, N.S. and Garboczi, E.J., 2000, "Using Impedance Spectroscopy to Assess the Viability of the
Rapid Chloride Test for Determining Concrete Conductivity," J. Res. Natl. Inst. Stand. Technol. 105, pp. 497-509,
http://nvl.nist.gov
83
Merlin
Merlin Specifications
Specimen diameter 90 to 110 mm
Specimen length up to 200 mm
325 Hz AC current supply
Measurement time: approximately 2 seconds
Sampling rate 5 Hz
Test results in terms of bulk conductivity or resistivity
Test results can be stored for preparing test reports
Merlin Ordering Numbers
Item
Order #
MRLN-1001
MRLN -1002
Merlin software
MRLN-1003
MRLN-1004
MRLN-1005
MRLN-1006
Spray bottle
MRLN-1007
Carrying case
MRLN-1008
MRLN-1009
84
H2O
CO2 Cl-
O2
Fe2+
Rust
Cathode
e--
Anode
Control and
Display Unit
Cover Condition
Reference
Electrode
Ecorr, mV
Wet
Sponge
-50 to -200
-250 to -350
-400 to -600
20 to 50
5 to 10
0 to 1
Gradient
R, kOhm
85
Order #
GD-2001
GD-2002
GD-2003
GD-2004
GD-2005
GD-2006
GD-2007
GD-2008
GD-2009
GD-2010
GD-2011
GD-2012
Optional Items
Calibration cell
Temperature probe
Electric hammer drill
Garden spray pump
GD-2013
GD-2014
GD-2015
GD-2016
86
kOhm
mV (CSE)
72
55
-50
-110
-390
70
64
-40
-120
-125
68
60
-30
-100
-135
71
65
-45
-120
-120
64
62
14
-50
-90
-110
59
55
10
-45
-95
-380
81
49
19
-50
-110
-390
73
59
20
-45
-110
-380
78
54
15
-60
-125
-365
82
68
27
-55
-135
-405
89
74
19
-45
-100
-355
98
72
21
-50
-90
-325
92
87
35
-60
-85
-310
99
90
44
-50
-75
-115
102
103
65
-55
-70
-65
Line
A
Line
B
Line
C
Line
A
Line
B
Line
C
Wall
Wall
Testing Example
The access slabs of a housing complex had been
subjected to de-icing salts for 18 years. No major
rust stains or spalling were observed. Shown to the
right are the electrical resistance and the potentials
measured with the Mini Great Dane on one of the
slabs. The relatively low electrical resistance
towards the railings indicates a water saturated
concrete and/or the presence of chlorides in the
concrete. A large potential gradient is noted from
the wall towards the railing. When the concrete was
removed at several locations towards the railing,
the bars were found to have heavy corrosion with a
1 to 20 % reduction of the cross section. Based on
further testing with the RCT and the Rainbow
Indicator, service life was estimated and a repair
strategy was developed.
Railing
Railing
MIRA
Purpose
The MIRA Tomographer is a state-of-the-art
instrument for creating a three-dimensional (3-D)
representation (tomogram) of internal defects that
may be present in a concrete element. MIRA is
based on the ultrasonic pitch-catch method and
uses an antenna composed of an array of dry point
contact (DPC) transducers, which emit shear
waves into the concrete. The transducer array is
under computer control and the recorded data are
transferred wirelessly to a host computer in real
time. The computer takes the raw data and creates
a 3-D image of the reflecting interfaces within the
element. MIRA has been used successfully for the following applications.
Thickness measurement
Detection of voids in grouted tendon ducts
Detection of poor quality bond in overlays and repairs
Detection of delaminations
Detection of voids and honeycombing in concrete members
Principle
MIRA is based on the ultrasonic pulse-echo method using
transmitting and receiving transducers in a "pitch-catch"
configuration as shown on the right. One transducer
sends out a stress-wave pulse and a second transducer
receives the reflected pulse. The time from the start of the
pulse until the arrival of the echo is measured. If the wave
speed C is known, the depth of the reflecting interface can
be calculated as shown (the equation assumes that the
two transducers are close to each other).
The key features that distinguish MIRA from other flaw
detection devices include:
MIRA
to the right shows the typical shape of the
received pulse after it has reflected from
an air interface. Also shown is the
amplitude spectrum of the pulse. It is seen
that the nominal center frequency is about
50 kHz.
The operation of the antenna is described next. Basically, the control unit within the antenna excites
one row of transducers and the other rows of transducers act as receivers. The left side figure below
shows the first row of transducers acting as transmitters and the remaining rows of transducers
acting as receivers. Then, as shown in the figure on the right, the next row of transducers is excited
and the remaining rows to the right act as receivers. This process is repeated until each of the first
nine rows of transducers has acted as transmitters.
CALIBRATIONThis mode is used at the start of testing to determine the shear wave speed of
the concrete. It is recommended that testing be done at eight or more positions to obtain a good
estimate of average wave speed. The determined wave speed is representative of the concrete
near the surface.
EXPLOREThis mode is intended for preliminary testing at arbitrary locations on the surface
of the test object. Ideally, preliminary tests should be done at locations where the internal
conditions are known. This mode is used to check the settings of the instrument before beginning
actual scans.
SCANThis mode is used to acquire the data that will be used to evaluate the test object. Data
are stored automatically after completion of measurements at the antenna location. The method
for conducting a scan is discussed below.
88
MIRA
REVIEWThis mode is for detailed study of the processed data acquired during the scan.
To carry out an inspection of the complete concrete
member, the user lays out a series of scan lines 500 mm
apart on the testing surface. The antenna is oriented
perpendicular to the scan direction and data are recorded
at predetermined steps along each scan line. The distance
between successive antenna positions will depend on the
nature of the defects to be detected, with closer spacings
required for smaller defects. The testing layout is entered
into the computer and that information is used during
signal processing to establish the locations of the reflecting
interfaces within the member.
After data are acquired along all the scan lines, a signal
processing technique called synthetic aperture focusing
(SAFT) is used to reconstruct a 3-D tomographic image of
the interior of the concrete member. In simple
terms, the member is subdivided into small
volume-elements (analogous to finite elements used
for stress analysis). From the pulse arrival times
and the known positions of the transmitter-receiver
pairs, the depth of the reflecting interface can be
established. Because of the inclined ray paths, the
depth of the reflector is calculated using the
formula for the relationship between the lengths of
the sides of a right triangle (Pythagorean
Theorem). In the formula shown to the right, Cs is
the shear wave speed determined by MIRA during the initial calibration for the test object. If there
is a large reflecting interface, reflections will be picked up by more than one receiver. This will allow
reconstruction of the approximate extent of the reflecting interface.
The reconstructed 3-D image is stored in the computer,
and the user can look at a 3-D picture of the locations of
all detected interfaces or the user can look at the
projection of the interfaces on three orthogonal planes.
The views on the three orthogonal planes have formal
names. A C-scan shows the reflecting interfaces
projected on a plane parallel to the test surface; that is,
a C-scan is a "plan view" of the reflectors. A B-scan
shows the reflectors projected on a plane perpendicular
to the test surface and perpendicular to the scan
direction; that is, it provides and "end view" of the
reflectors. A D-scan shows the reflectors projected on a
plane perpendicular to the test surface but parallel to
the scan direction; that is, it provides an "elevation
view" of the reflectors. The user can also look at specific
"slices" through the member in each of the three
directions by defining the Z-coordinate for a C-scan
image, the X-coordinate for a B-scan image, and the Y-coordinate for a D-scan image.
The following is a simple test case to illustrate these different displays. The test object is a 0.43 m by
0.43 m by 0.8 m plain concrete block containing three holes as shown. The antenna was scanned
along the center of the block parallel to the direction of the holes. The resulting cross-sectional views
are shown. The red areas correspond to the locations of reflectors that produce high amplitude
reflections. In the C-scan, we see a plan view of the holes. In the B-scan we see the end view of the
block; the three holes are seen clearly and the large red zone is the bottom (back wall) of the block. In
89
MIRA
the D-scan, we see an elevation view of the holes and the bottom of the block. The views show the
projections of all reflectors onto the three planes. The user can also look at the reflectors in specific
slices.
13 mm hole
55 mm deep
13 mm hole
160 mm deep
C-scan
30 mm hole
130 mm deep
D-scan
Testing Examples
Testing for voids in grouted cable ducts of bridge girders: MIRA was used to evaluate the
conditions of prestressing ducts near the anchorage zones of a box-girder bridge. Before testing, the
locations of the ducts were marked on the face of the web using information on the construction
drawings (center photo below). One of the test records is shown below. The B-scan is at the cross
section shown as a dashed line in the C-scan. The large amplitude signal at the location of duct
indicated a high probability that the duct was not properly grouted. This was confirmed by drilling a
core and carefully removing the duct to reveal the bare tendons. (Courtesy of Ramboll Finland Ltd.)
C-Scan
D-Scan
90
Condition of duct
B-Scan
MIRA
Testing for voids in grouted cable ducts in circular columns: Circular columns, 500 mm
diameter, contained 80 mm steel ducts within the central cores. The ducts contained 25 mm bars
that were supposed to have been surrounded with mortar grout. Single tests (Explore Mode) were
made using MIRA and the results were displayed as a B-scan image. Voided ducts were easily
identified and confirmed by drilling cores into the columns.
Duct
Opposite
side of
column
Grouted Duct
Single test being perfomed on column and
condition observed after coring
Empty Duct
Examples of B-scans
Testing quality of bond: A steel box girder bridge was overlaid with 100 mm of fiber-reinforced
concrete. The overlay included several layers of reinforcing bars that interfered with proper
consolidation of the fiber-reinforced concrete below the bars. MIRA was used to evaluate the
presence of voids at the interface with the steel deck. An example of the results from a scan line is
shown below. Because of the shallow depth of the overlay, the B-scans and D-scans show the
multiple reflections of the back wall of the overlay. The C-scan shows the locations of reflectors on a
plane 90 mm from the top surface. The red regions represent possible presence of voids. Subsequent
coring confirmed the MIRA results. Note that the green regions in the C-scan appear to be
reflections from the reinforcing bars.
91
MIRA
Solid Core
Order #
MIR-1001
MIR-1002
Wireless transmitter
MIR-1003
AC Adaptor
MIR-1004
Cables
MIR-1005
Software on CD-ROM
MIR-1006
User manual
MIR-1007
MIR-1008
Moisture Encounter
Purpose
Moisture Encounter is used to measure near-surface moisture content in concrete or other
materials
during condition surveys, e.g. for corrosion investigations, or
to check whether drying measures were adequate prior to applying a coating or an overlay on an
existing element or floor.
Principle
The
Moisture
Encounter
is
a
totally
nondestructive instrument that indicates moisture
content by means of an impedance measurement.
Parallel co-planar electrodes fitted with springloaded contacts are mounted on the base of the
instrument, as shown to the left. During operation, a
low frequency electrical signal is transmitted into the
test material. The level of moisture in the material
affects the impedance measured by the instrument.
The detection depth is 15 to 25 mm.
The ME-3000
Moisture Encounter
supplied in a leather
case with calibration
certificate
93
PetroPlaner
Purpose
The PetroPlaner is a state-of-the-art lapping and polishing machine for preparing lapped/polished
plane surfaces for:
Air Void Analysis according to ASTM C457
Petrographic examination of polished fluorescent epoxy impregnated surfaces
Polishing of thin sections for SEM / EDS examination
When preparing polished plane sections for-air-void analysis according to ASTM C457, it is crucial
that the polishing be of very high quality. Both the paste and the aggregates have to be polished to
exactly the same level and no erosion of the paste has to occur. In order to measure reliably the
correct chord length of each air void, it is extremely important that the individual air voids have
clear and sharp edges without any degradation. Otherwise, the results of the air-void analysis will be
erroneous.
Polishing of concrete specimens for air-void analysis by ASTM C457 is especially difficult if
The paste is weak due to low maturity, poor curing, or a high water-cement ratio
The paste is deteriorated
The aggregates are extremely hard, having higher resistance to abrasion than the paste
The concrete has a high air content causing erosion of the paste between individual air voids
The PetroPlaner grinding system, with its different grinding slurries, maximizes the success of
such grinding and polishing jobs. The procedure can be supplemented by impregnation with an
acetone based hardener that is applied prior to each grinding step.
The grinding technique, which involves three rotating parts, the specimen itself, the transverse arm
connecting the two specimens and the rotating table, ensures even grinding of the specimens and
even wear of the grinding surfaces.
94
PetroPlaner
The PetroPlaner features:
Optimized pressure on the specimens during grinding with the different grinding and polishing
slurries
Eccentric operation of the polishing heads ensuring totally even and uniform grinding of the
surface
Even and minimal wear of the rotating cast iron grinding plate
Polishing of two specimens simultaneously, reducing the specimen preparation time
Built-in, self feeding and recycling mechanism of the slurry, reducing cost of the slurries
Simple and durable design with a low demand for maintenance and a long service life
Low requirements for laboratory facilities, simple and easy operation
Proven track record of 15 years with excellent results
PetroPlaner Description
The photo on the left shows the complete
PetroPlaner unit. Shown below are details of
the attachment to the two specimens and the
built-in self feeding and recycling system for the
grinding slurry.
The specimens rotate eccentrically in relation to
the rotating cast ion bottom plate with the
grinding or polishing slurry in between. Grinding
and polishing takes place using selected slurries
with varying fineness of silicon carbide particles.
The typical specimens are 150 mm by 150 mm (6
in. by 6 in.) in polishing area and 40 mm (1.6 in.)
in thickness.
Requirements
The PetroPlaner requires access to 380 VAC and to cold water. The PetroPlaner is supplied with
different silicon carbide (Carborundum) powders for grinding and polishing. Also required are: a
diamond saw, equipment for vacuum impregnation, a fume hood, and a drying oven. Germann
Instruments will provide all the necessary additional equipment upon request as well as assistance
in setting up the PetroPlaner and technician training. We also provide courses in concrete
petrography using macroscopic examination and optical microscopy.
95
PetroThin
Purpose
PetroThin is the ultimate thin section preparation machine.
Principle
For the last 40 years, thin sections have been used extensively by petrographers to study the
microstructure of concrete. Fluorescent epoxy impregnation of thin sections of concrete and related
materials is one of the most powerful methods for determining and characterizing the following
features:
The water-cement (w/c) ratio
The cement type, degree of hydration, and dispersion of cement particles
The type of pozzolan, degree of hydration, and cement-pozzolan ratio
Mixture proportions
Three Basic Steps
Aggregate type, gradation, and quality
Crack measurement and characterization
1
2
3
Air-void structure
Surface structure and finishing defects
Alkali silica reaction (ASR)
Alkali carbonate reaction (ACR)
Delayed ettringite formation (DEF)
Freezing and thawing damage
Freezing of fresh concrete
Bleeding characteristics
1. Rough cut sample
Depth of carbonation
2. Polished block
Deleterious aggregates
3. 20 m thick polished section
A thin section is an extremely powerful and versatile tool for quality control and development of new
types of concrete, admixtures, fibers, or alternative raw materials. In forensic examination of
deteriorating or damaged concrete, fluorescent thin section analysis is the fastest and the most
reliable tool for describing and determining causes of deterioration or damage.
96
PetroThin
The standard fluorescent epoxy impregnated thin section for concrete microscopy is only 20 m thick.
The process involved in preparing the 20 m thick slice of fluorescent epoxy impregnated concrete is
extremely difficult using ordinary lapping equipment.
PetroThin is the only machine in the world that can perform the required type of grinding on an
inexpensive, rapid, and routine basis. The grinding guides on PetroThin use the surface of the glass
slide as a reference for grinding. Thus, it is possible to prepare 20 m thick slices quickly and
accurately.
The PetroThin has 25 years of proven track record with excellent results.
The machine is easy and safe to operate. The training needed to operate the equipment and prepare
thin sections in a consistent manner can be accomplished within one week.
The standard thin sections produced on the PetroThin are 30 mm 40 mm, but it is also possible to
produce larger 30 mm 70 mm thin sections.
The PetroThin comes with a built-in diamond saw and a grinding unit.
Procedure
The basic steps in the preparation of thin sections on the PetroThin are as follows:
1
The block is bonded to a 30 mm 40 mm piece of glass and it is trimmed on the diamond saw to
a thickness of 10 mm.
The block is mounted on the PetroThin and ground by the three successively finer diamond
grinding rollers.
The block is vacuum impregnated with fluorescent epoxy. When the epoxy has cured, excessive
epoxy is ground off plus 7 m into the material.
The block is glued by a UV-hardening adhesive to the final glass slide and excess material is cut
off with the diamond saw.
The glass slide is mounted on the traveling head of the PetroThin, and the material is ground
down to a thickness of 20 m using three successively finer diamond grinding rollers. The
thickness is controlled by checking the birefringence colors of quartz or feldspar particles using a
polarizing microscope or by direct measurement with a caliper.
3
4
5
6
Eventually, a cover glass is glued to the polished surface of the thin section. Alternatively, the
specimen is polished if it will be used for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or microprobe
analysis.
Requirements
The PetroThin is simple to install in a laboratory or other suitable area. The PetroThin requires
access to 380 VAC, cold water, and a vacuum source. Additionally, it is desirable to have access to a
fume hood, drying oven, equipment for vacuum impregnation of the samples, and a rugged diamond
saw for rough cutting of larger samples. Germann Instruments can provide all the necessary
supporting equipment.
Germann Instruments will provide assistance in setting up the equipment and training
technicians. Additionally, we will provide courses in concrete petrography, optical microscopy, and
SEM/Microprobe analysis.
97
POWER
Purpose
The POWER test system is used for proof-load testing of anchors in concrete.
Principle
An adaptor of the appropriate size is threaded to the anchor bolt. A counter pressure assembly is
placed on the concrete so that it is centered with the anchor bolt. A pull bolt with coupler is threaded
into the adaptor and attached to a hydraulic pull machine. The load is increased to the required
proof load and held for at least 10 seconds. If the load is maintained during the hold period, the
anchor passes the proof load test.
Pull Bolt and
Coupler
Counter
Pressure
Assembly
Adaptor
Order #
L-11-1
L-13
L-14
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
L-32
L-33
POW-110
POW-120
POW-130
C-104-1
98
Profile Grinder
Purpose
The Profile Grinder is used to obtain concrete powder by precision grinding at small depth
increments for accurate determination of the chloride ion profile for the following applications:
Following ponding of specimens in the laboratory, e.g., according to NT BUILD 443 or ASTM
C1556, or
On-site on structures that have been subjected to chloride ion ingress.
From the chloride ion content profile, the chloride ion diffusion coefficient can be estimated in
accordance with ASTM C1556 and used for service life calculations.
Principle
A grinding bit, 18 mm in diameter, grinds the concrete to a fine powder at selected, exact depth
increments, selected between 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The bit is attached to a grinding machine that is
held against the surface by a grinding plate. The grinding takes place by working the bit over the
surface in three rotations. The grinding area is 73 mm in diameter and the maximum depth is 40
mm. The powder produced at each depth increment is collected with a battery-operated vacuum
cleaner (Dust Buster) containing a re-usable filter. On a vertical face, the powder is collected in a
plastic bag attached to the grinding plate. For every depth increment of 0.5 mm, approximately 5
grams of powder is obtained for analysis. It takes 4 to 6 minutes to obtain each sample and about 5
minutes to determine the chloride content using the RCT (see page 112).
Depth Accuracy
The depth increments are accurate to within 2 %
Testing Examples
1.0
Chloride Content, %
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
0
10
15
20
Depth, mm
25
30
35
99
Profile Grinder
0.6
Chloride Content, %
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0.0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Depth, mm
L
100
Order #
PF-1101
PF-1102
PF-1103
PF-1104
CC-25
C-102-3
CC-30
PF-1105
PF-1106
PF-1107
RCT-1028
C-155/151
PF-1108
PF-1109
L-24
PF-1111
PF-1112
PF-1200
PROOVEit
Purpose
The PROOVEit system is used to evaluate the resistance of concrete to the ingress of chloride ions
in two ways:
By determining how easy it is to force chloride ions into saturated concrete by applying an
electrical potential across a test specimen in accordance with AASHTO T 277 or ASTM C1202.
This is known as the Coulomb Test or the Rapid Chloride Permeability Test (RCPT).
By measuring the penetration depth of chloride ions, after an electric potential has been applied
to the specimen in accordance with NORDTEST BUILD 492 (Chloride Migration Coefficient from
Non-Steady State Migration Experiments) to determine the Chloride Migration Coefficient,
which can be used to estimate the chloride diffusion coefficient for service life calculations.
Principle
A water-saturated concrete specimen, 100 mm diameter and 50 mm thick,
is positioned in a cell (right and page 104) containing fluid reservoirs on
both sides. For the RCPT or Coulomb Test, one reservoir is filled with a 3 %
NaCl solution and the other with a 0.3N NaOH solution. A potential of 60
VDC is applied across the cell. The negative terminal is connected to the
electrode in the reservoir with the NaCl solution and the positive terminal
is connected to the electrode in the NaOH solution. The negatively charged
chloride ions will migrate towards the positive terminal.
The more permeable is the concrete, the more chloride ions will migrate
through the specimen, and a higher current will be measured. The current
is measured for 6 hours. The area under the curve of current versus time is
determined, which represents the total charge or Coulombs passed across
the specimen. The Coulomb values are used for classifying the concrete as
follows (ASTM C1202):
60 V DC
Power
Supply
NaCl
Coulombs
Permeability Class
Typical of
>4000
4000-2000
2000-1000
1000-100
<100
High
Moderate
Low
Very Low
Negligible
Cl-
NaOH
101
PROOVEit
be about 12 % (ASTM C1202), and the repeatability of the migration test is reported to be about 9 %
(NT BUILD 492).
PROOVEit System Features
Windows-based software for testing and report
preparation
Computer controlled microprocessor power supply
A complete system composed of coring and slicing equipment, vacuum desiccator, vacuum pump,
watertight test cells, microprocessor power supply, and software are shown on the following page.
Testing Example
Pointing with the mouse arrow on any of the windows will produce a pop-out window with
explanatory notes for that window. The Status line for the eight cells is either OFF, ON or FIN, as
shown after the tests have been completed. The Voltage-Actual line indicates the test voltage, and
the Current-Actual line indicates the instantaneous current during testing. The Temperature line
indicates the instantaneous temperature in the reservoir solutions during testing, and Elapsed
Time indicates the time since start-up of each cell. The Pred. Coulombs line indicates the
predicted Coulombs at 6 hours, which are estimated after every 5 minutes of testing. The Testing
time indicates the selected testing time, and the Specimen Diameter indicates the actual diameter
of the specimen. The Coulombs line indicates the measured Coulombs at any time during testing.
The last line shows the chloride ion permeability classification according to ASTM C1202, as
indicated on page 101. In arriving at the classification, the displayed Coulomb values are adjusted to
a standard specimen diameter of 95 mm, as required by ASTM C1202. As an example, cell number 3
containing a specimen with a diameter of 100 mm has been measured to have 2100 Coulombs.
Adjusted for a diameter of 95 mm, the Coulomb value is 1898 and, according ASTM C1202, the
permeability class is LOW and not MODERATE as evaluated from the measured Coulomb value.
102
PROOVEit
Sample Test Report
The following figure shows an example test report. In this case, the report is for Cell #2 shown on the
previous page. The top of the report summarizes the test result. The graph shows the measured
solution temperature () and current (), and the table shows the temperature and current at 5min intervals.
GI
The PROOVEit system is shown with its main components: At the front is the PROOVEit
microprocessor power supply connected to one PROOVEit test cell.
Optional Items: At the back is the CEL-100 CORECASE for coring with an electric drill, a
diamond saw for trimming the core, a vacuum desiccator, and a vacuum pump.
Note: A computer is also required with the following minimum requirements: 75 MHz
Pentium, 32 MB RAM, 1.0 GB hard drive, and Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000 or XP.
103
PROOVEit
The PROOVEit Cells
Two types of cells are available, the PR-1000 cell and the PR-1100 cell, shown below. The PR-1000
cell is the standard cell. The PR-1100 is supplied with cooling fins, which are needed if the
temperature is required to be kept constant, as for example, for chloride ion migration testing using
the NT BUILD 492 test method.
The cell is sealed by tightening the four corner
bolts, which squeezes the gaskets against the
specimen.
The following gaskets are
different specimen diameters:
Specimen
Diameter
Ordering #
104 to 102 mm
PR-1010A
101 to 97 mm
PR-1010B
96 to 93 mm
PR-1010C
available
for
The cells are supplied with PR-1010B gaskets, unless otherwise specified. The PR-1010B gaskets
match the 100-mm core diameter produced by the CEL-100 coring equipment (see page 29).
The PR-1055 Verification Unit
The PR-1055 verification unit is used to verify that
the microprocessor controlled power supply is
working properly. The unit is connected to line
power, 110 VAC or 220 VAC. Each channel of the
PROOVEit power supply is set up for testing at a
selected voltage and connected to the verification
unit. When the PROOVEit system is operating
properly, the Current-Actual indicated on the
computer screen (see page 102) should be within 30
mA 0.1 mA or 300 mA 0.1 mA for the two switch
settings on the verification unit.
PROOVEit Ordering Numbers*
Item
Order #
Item
Order #
PR-1000
PR-1064
PR-1100
PR-1065
PR-1001
PR-1066
PR-1002
PROOVEit manual
PR-1090
PR-1003
Verification unit
PR-1055
Temperature probe
PR-1005
PR-1070
PR-1006
PR-1081
PR-1020
CEL-100
PR-1030
PR-1040
PR-1050
*These
CC-29
PR-1060
items can be selected as needed to assemble a system to meet the purchaser's requirements.
104
PUNDIT
Purpose
The PUNDIT (Portable Ultrasonic Nondestructive Digital Indicating Tester) is used to measure the
propagation speed of a pulse of ultrasonic longitudinal stress waves. The ultrasonic pulse velocity
(UPV) that is determined can be used for the following applications:
Evaluating the uniformity of concrete within a structural member
Locating internal voids and cracks
Estimating severity of deterioration
Estimating depth of fire damaged concrete
Evaluating effectiveness of crack repairs
Identifying anomalous regions for invasive sampling with drilled cores
Estimating early-age strength (with correlation)
Principle
Cp =
E (1 )
(1 + )(1 2 )
T = Transmitter
R = Receiver
PUNDIT
Two models are available: The PUNDIT Plus and the PUNDIT 7. Both instruments are capable of
investigating the structural integrity of concrete, ceramics and refractory, timber and other
materials. They include the following features:
PUNDIT Plus
Key features:
Auto ranging transit time display; up to 9999 s
Programmable trigger rate
Wide range of pulse repetition frequency
Measure transit time, pulse velocity, and elastic
modulus
Three transmitter voltage options; 250 V, 500 V,
or 1.2 kV
Data transferrable to Excel spreadsheet
Order #
PP-1010
PP-1020
PP-1030
PP-1050
PP-1060
PP-1070
Optional
Attach case
PP-1080
PUNDIT 7
Key Features:
Auto ranging transit time display: up to 6.553 ms transit time
Signal level bar graph
On screen display of test settings
Remote control by PC through RS232 port
Four transmitter voltage options: 250 V, 500 V, 750 V, or 1 kV
Wide range of pulse repetition frequency, up to 100 Hz
Built-in rechargeable batteries
Auto detecting of AC power supply
Built-in handle also functions as stand for bench or field use
106
PUNDIT
PUNDIT 7 Ordering Numbers
Item
PUNDIT 7
AC power cord
Two 54-kHz transducers (transmitter and receiver)
Verification bar
Two 3 m cables and serial cable
Couplant (250 mL bottle)
Operating manual (CD-ROM)
Order #
P7-2010
P7-2020
P7-2030
P7-2040
P7-2050
P7-2060
P7-2070
Optional
Carrying case for easy use on-site
P7-2090
A range of amplifiers and attenuators are available to cover a variety of applications. Also, cables up to 30 m in
length can be ordered, along with different coupling fluids to suit various applications.
Optional Transducers
Transducers with resonant frequencies from 24 kHz to 1 MHz are available, including wheel probes
for continuous testing in the field or in a production environment. Use lower frequencies for large,
dense, and heterogeneous test objects and higher frequencies for smaller, less dense and more
homogeneous test objects. General guidelines are:
Concrete:
Timber:
Ceramics:
Order #
UTR24KHZ
UTR37KHZ
UTR54KHZ
UTR82KHZ
UTR150KHZ
UTR200KHZ
UTR220KHZ
UTR500KHZ
UTR1MHZ
24 to 150 kHz
Graphite:
Cast iron:
1 MHz
24 to 220 kHz
Frequency
24 kHz
37 kHz
54 kHz
82 kHz
150 kHz
200 kHz
220 kHz
500 kHz
1 MHz
Nominal Dimensions
50 mm dia 96 mm long.
50 mm dia 50 mm long.
50 mm dia 38 mm long.
33 mm dia 34 mm long.
25 mm dia 34 mm long.
20 mm dia 34 mm long.
6 mm dia tip, 13 mm dia body, 60 mm long (including connector)
6 mm dia tip, 13mm dia body, 60 mm long (including connector)
15 mm dia 67 mm long (including connector).
107
RapidAir
Purpose
RapidAir is an image analysis system for automatic determination of the air content in hardened
concrete according to the linear traverse method in ASTM C457: Test Method for Microscopical
Determination of Parameters of the Air-Void System in Hardened Concrete.
The measured parameters of the air-void structure are total air content, spacing factor, and specific
surface.
Principle
A core is taken from the structure, sliced, ground, and lapped in the laboratory. The resulting
surface is plane, smooth, and with sharp edges along the perimeter of air voids. Before final
specimen preparation, the lapping quality is checked under a stereomicroscope.
The lapped surface is colored black with a hard stamp pad containing black ink. After heating the
specimen to 55 C, a white zinc paste is applied to the surface with a rubber spatula. The zinc paste
melts on the surface and flows into the voids.
After cooling to room temperature, excess paste is
removed from the surface with a straight, sharp
steel blade. The quality of the black-white contrast
is checked under a stereomicroscope. The voids
should be totally filled with white paste and no
white regions should be visible on the surface.
Finally, voids in aggregates and obvious cracks are
colored black under the stereomicroscope using a
black marking pen. The photo on the left shows a
properly prepared specimen.
The preparation of a well-lapped specimen surface
for analysis takes about 30 minutes. The RapidAir
measurement is done automatically in less than 17
minutes. This should be compared with a time of 4
to 6 hours normally required for manual analysis
using a light microscope in accordance with ASTM
C457.
Following contrast enhancement, the prepared
specimen is mounted on a moving X-Y-Z stage
positioned below a video camera.
The RapidAir control unit automatically
moves the stage, and the software determines
the portion of the total traverse length that
passes through the white air voids, as shown
in the magnified view to the right. After the
scan is completed, the air-void parameters are
determined in accordance with ASTM C457.
The specimen scan is saved automatically in a
report file documenting the air content,
spacing factor, and specific surface. In
addition, graphical presentation of the air-void
distribution and the raw data are available.
108
RapidAir
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
0
10
12
14
50
40
30
20
10
0
0
10
20
30
40
109
50
-1
RAT
Purpose
The RAT (Rapid Alkali Test) measures the amounts of sodium and potassium ions that may
contribute to alkali-silica reaction (ASR), which is harmful to concrete structures. The alkalies
(potassium and sodium ions) in the cement paste react with reactive (amorphous) silica particles in
fine or coarse aggregate and cause expansion and cracking, provided sufficient moisture is present.
To reduce the risk of ASR in new concrete structures, the quantity of sodium and potassium ions in
the cement paste of fresh concrete may be lowered so as not to exceed the critical limit defined in the
project specifications.
The RAT measures the amount of sodium and potassium ions in the fresh concrete or in its
constituents. The test may also be used for testing powder samples of hardened concrete.
Principle
A sample of the fresh concrete, or its constituents, is taken and mixed with specific amount of acid
extraction liquid. A calibrated set of electrodes, one for measuring the sodium ions and one for
measuring the potassium ions, is submerged into the solution and the corresponding electrode
readings (in mV) are taken.
The mV-readings are transformed directly into amount of Na2O and 0.658 x K2O in kg/m3 by means
of established calibration curves, and added together to give the equivalent amount of Na2O.
One test takes about 10 minutes to perform after the electrodes have been calibrated.
Similarly, for hardened concrete, a powder sample may be analyzed. Should aggregates containing
reactive material need to be excluded, a core is taken, the core is fractured, and the aggregate
particles are removed. The remaining material is then pulverized and analyzed.
Correlation with Other Methods and Variability
The graph shows the correlation between alkali contents determined by flame photometry and RAT,
for tests performed on the same solutions prepared from different concrete mixtures. The solutions
were prepared by acid extraction of the alkalies.
The correlation coefficient for these results is 0.97 and the alkali contents determined by RAT are
within 5 % of the values determined by flame photometry.
RAT, kg/m
1.5
1.0
0.5
Sodium
Potassium
0.0
0
0.5
110
1.5
3
RAT
Testing Example
10.0
1.0
Sodium
Potassium
0.1
-40
-20
20
40
60
80
100
Electrode Voltage, mV
Calibration of the electrodes is performed on the three calibration liquids producing typical
calibration curves as indicated above. The concrete sample is dissolved in the extraction liquid, and
the electrodes are submerged into the solution. In this example, the mV-reading for the Na+ electrode
is 12.0 mV and for the K+ electrode it is 18.9 mV. The corresponding amounts of equivalent Na20 are
0.46 kg/m3 and 1.40 kg/m3, respectively. Adding these values gives an equivalent Na2O content of
1.86 kg/m3.
The RAT-1000 Kit and Ordering Numbers
RAT-2030
Calibration
liquids
RAT-2032
Vials for
fresh
concrete
RAT-2023
Vials for
hardened
concrete
Item
K+ electrode
Spare cover for K+ electrode
Na+ electrode
Spare cover for Na+ electrode
Reference electrode
Holster for electrodes
Electrometer w. spare battery
Adaptor switch box
Wetting agent for K+ electrode
Wetting agent for Na+ electrode
Wetting agent for ref. electrode
Set of filling syringes, three
Spray bottle with distilled water
Calibration liquid # 1
Calibration liquid # 2
Calibration liquid # 3
Cleaning tissues
Calibration sheets, 30 pcs
Data sheets, 30 pcs
Pencils (black and red) and ruler
Spatula, 5 pcs
Safety goggles
Rubber gloves
Mixing container
Sampling cup for fresh concrete
Plastic lid with holes for electrodes
Temperature probe
Manual
111
Order #
RAT-700
RAT-701
RAT-800
RAT-801
RAT-900
RAT-910
RAT-950
RAT-960
RAT-970
RAT-980
RAT-990
RAT-1005
RAT-1010
RAT-1020
RAT-1030
RAT-1040
RAT-1050
RAT-1060
RAT-1070
RAT-1080
RAT-1090
RAT-1100
RAT-1110
RAT-1120
RAT-1130
RAT-1140
RAT-1150
RAT-1160
The RCT (Rapid Chloride Test) is used to determine the amount of acid-soluble chlorides
The RCTW (Rapid Chloride Test Water) is used to determine the amount of water-soluble
chlorides
The two methods use different kinds of extraction liquids. The type of method to use will depend on
the specification criteria for maximum allowable chloride ion content in either hardened or fresh
concrete.
Accuracy
Numerous correlations have been made between RCT test results and chloride ion content
determined by standard laboratory potentiometric titration methods such as AASHTO T 260, ASTM
C114, DS 423.28 or NS 3671. The following graph shows the results of such correlations made by
various laboratories in the Scandinavian countries and in the U.S.
0.25
0.20
0.15
FHWA
DTI, Denmark
Swedish Cement and Concrete Institute
Norwegian Concrete Technology
Swedish State Testing Institute
Danish Road Directorate
0.10
0.05
0.00
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
AASHTO T 260
0.023
0.071
0.328
0.020
0.057
0.244
0.020
0.056
0.244
RCT
0.024
0.070
0.314
0.019
0.052
0.229
0.019
0.052
0.231
0.022
0.072
0.321
0.019
0.061
0.238
0.019
0.059
0.238
The accuracy of the RCT results compared with the known amount of chlorides is as good as with
the AASHTO T 260 potentiometric titration method. The average deviation of the RCT results from
the known amount of chlorides is within 4 %.
For repeated testing with the RCT on the same concrete powder, the coefficient of variation of test
results is on average 5 %.
The precision and accuracy of the RCTW test for water-soluble chlorides is similar to RCT results.
Testing Examples
Examples of chloride ion profiles
measured with the RCT are illustrated on
pages 99 and 100.
0.7
0.8
0.6
RCTW
RCT
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0.0
0
10
20
30
Depth, mm
113
40
50
Order #
RCT-770
RCT-990
RCT-1000
RCT-1001
RCT-1002
RCT-1003
RCT-1004
RCT-1005
RCT-1006
RCT-1007
RCT-1008
RCT-1009
RCT-1010
RCT-1011
RCT-1012
RCT-1013
RCT-1014
RCT-1015
RCT-1016
RCT-1017
RCT-1018
RCT-1019
RCT-1020
RCT-1021
RCT-1022
RCT-1023
RCT-1024
RCT-1025
RCT-1026
RCT-5000
The manual included in the RCT-500 kit covers testing for acid and water-soluble chlorides in
hardened as well as in fresh concrete. Separately delivered is a binder (RCT-1100) with 15 years of
testing experience, including advanced theory for chloride diffusion modeling.
Extra Parts
It is recommended to always have an extra set of clean RCT-1030 calibration liquids to ensure that
the chloride electrode is working properly should deviations occur from the usual obtained
calibration curve. The RCT-1000-1 EWA (electrode wetting agent) contains 300 mL of liquid for
refilling of the RCT-1000 EWA bottle, which has a spout that fits into the electrode hole. The RCT1032 mixing container and cup is for testing samples of fresh concrete.
114
Extraction liquids for RCTW testing for water-soluble chlorides in hardened concrete or fresh
concrete:
Optional items
RCT-1027 Certified Reference Powders
Nine jars, each containing 70 grams of concrete powder,
with known amounts of chlorides and titrated according
to AASHTO T 260
Known amounts of Cl
Portland cement
0.023 %
0.071 %
0.328 %
Fly ash cement
0.020 %
0.057 %
0.244 %
Slag cement
0.020 %
0.056 %
0.244 %
*According to ENV- 197-1
Cement type*
RCT-1028 pH-electrode
115
sMASH
Purpose
For a long time, users of NDT systems have wished for a rapid,
easy to use method for rapid screening of the integrity of
structures. The sMASH impulse-response test system fulfills
this wish. The idea is to quickly screen a structure for flaws
and identify suspect areas for subsequent detailed analysis,
e.g. by the impact-echo test (using the DOCter), pulse-echo
testing (with MIRA or EyeCon), or by invasive inspection with
drilled cores (using CORECASE).
With the sMASH, rapid evaluation can be conducted for:
Detecting voids beneath concrete slabs in highways,
spillways and floors
Detecting the curling of slabs
Evaluating anchoring systems of wall panels
Locating delaminations and honeycombing in bridge decks,
slabs, walls and large structures such as dams, chimney
stacks and silos
Detecting the presence of damage due to freezing and thawing
Detecting the presence of alkali-silica reaction (ASR)
Detecting debonding of asphalt and concrete overlays and repair patches from concrete
substrates
Evaluating the effectiveness of load transfer system in transmitting stresses across joints in
concrete structures
Principle
The sMASH uses a low-strain impact, produced by an instrumented rubber tipped hammer, to send
stress waves through the tested element. The impact causes the element to vibrate in a bending
mode and a velocity transducer, placed adjacent to the impact point, measures the amplitude of the
response. The hammer load cell and the velocity transducer are linked to a portable field computer
with sMASH software for data acquisition, signal processing and storage.
The time histories of the hammer force and the measured response velocity are transformed into the
frequency domain using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm. The resultant velocity spectrum
is divided by the force spectrum, to obtain the mobility as a function of frequency. An example of
such a mobility plot is given below for a solid concrete member. Mobility is expressed in units of
velocity per unit force, such as (m/s)/N.
-7
2.5 x 10
Average mobility
-7
Mobility (m/s)/N
2.0 x 10
-7
1.5 x 10
-7
1.0 x 10
-8
5.0 x 10
1
K
dyn
0.0
0
100
200
300
400
500
Frequency, Hz
116
600
700
800
sMASH
3.0 10
-6
2.5 10
-6
-6
1.5 10
-6
1.0 10
-6
5.0 10
-7
Mobility, (m/s)/N
Mobility, (m/s)/N
The parameters from the mobility plot that are used for integrity evaluation are:
The dynamic stiffness (the inverse of initial the slope of the mobility plot, the blue line in
previous figure;
The average mobility (dotted blue line in previous figure);
The mobility slope between 100 to 800 Hz; and
The voids ratio (the ratio of the amplitude of the initial mobility peak to the average mobility)
Good support
0.0
1 10
-5
8 10
-6
6 10
-6
4 10
-6
2 10
-6
Honeycombed concrete
Solid concrete
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
Frequency, Hz
Frequency, Hz
Examples of mobility plots for different types of flaws are shown above. The figure on the left
compares the mobility plot for a slab-on-ground with a void below the slab with the mobility plot for
a slab with uniform support. The voids ratio is the ratio of the amplitude of the peak to the average
mobility of the slab with good support. The figure on the right figure compares the mobility plot of a
honeycombed region in a silo wall with the mobility plot of properly consolidated concrete.
Honeycombed concrete is typically associated with a high mobility slope (the dashed lines).
Testing is performed on a grid marked on the surface of the structure. The sMASH software
constructs color contour plots of the various parameters, from which it is easy to identify anomalous
regions of the structure that merit detailed investigation. This is done on-site after the testing has
been completed, producing immediate information of the presence of anomalies.
Testing Examples
Shown on the right is the result of one test as
displayed on the computer with the sMASH
software. The top left window is the force-time
curve obtained from the impact of the
instrumented hammer. The top right window
shows the velocity-time curve obtained from the
geophone in contact with the concrete surface.
The figure in the lower window is the mobility
plot obtained from the previous two waveforms.
The bottom of the display shows the various
parameters calculated from the mobility plot.
117
sMASH
Below is the contour plot of the average mobility from sMASH tests performed on the soffit of a
bridge slab that was suspected of containing delaminations. Tests were performed on a 1 1 m grid.
Based on the contour plot, cores were drilled at three locations: (1) a region of low mobility, (2) a
region of intermediate mobility, and (3) a region of high mobility. The cores confirmed that low
mobility corresponded to a sound slab and higher mobility corresponded to the presence of
delaminations.
0-4
4-8
8-12
12-16
16-20
S10
S9
S7
S6
S5
S4
Testpoint/meter
S8
Centrestrip
S3
S2
S1
20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10
Testpoint/meter
Testing Applications
118
sMASH
119
sMASH
sMASH Ordering Numbers
sMASH-4000 Instrument Case
Item
Order #
Instrumented hammer
sMASH-4000-10
sMASH-4000-20
sMASH-4000-30
sMASH-4000-40
sMASH-4000-50
sMASH-4000-60
sMASH-4000-90
Manual
sMASH-4000-100
Attach case
sMASH-4000-110
The instrumented hammer and the transducers need to be calibrated once a year.
sMASH-4000 Computer Case
Item
Order #
sMASH-4000-200
sMASH-4000-210
Amplifier box
sMASH-4000-220
sMASH-4000-230
sMASH-4000-240
Attach case
sMASH-4000-250
A two-day training course is offered separately. The course covers the theoretical background of
impulse-response testing, the testing methodology, testing cases from a variety of structures and
hands-on training on testing with the sMASH.
120
STEPPER
Purpose
The STEPPER is an automated impact-echo test system for increasing the speed of testing. It is
especially suited when large areas need to be tested with close spacing between test points, such as
for:
Locating voids in grouted tendon ducts
Accurate assessment of regions of delamination or honeycombing
Principle
Manual impact-echo testing, such as by using the DOCter system, can be time consuming when test
points need to be closely spaced because the defects to be detected are small or an accurate
assessment is desired of the extent of internal defects. The STEPPER permits automated impactecho testing along a given scan line. As shown, a DOCter impact-echo receiver is attached to a cart
that moves automatically from test point to test point. The spacing between test points can be as
small as 20 mm. A pneumatic system is used to activate two spherical impactors: a small impactor
provides high frequency input for locating small, near surface defects and a larger impactor provides
for deeper penetration to identify the back face of the test object.
121
STEPPER
Scanning Frames
The STEPPER is suited for automated impact-echo testing on horizontal surfaces. When testing
needs to be done on a vertical surface or on a soffit (overhead surface), special frames are available to
support the impact-echo test unit and carry out an automated scan of the test area. A scanning
frame is composed of a longitudinal track that is fixed to the test surface and a transverse track that
travels along the longitudinal track. An impact-echo unit is attached to the transverse track and
travels in discrete steps from test point to test point. When a transverse scan is completed, the
longitudinal drive moves the transverse track to the next scan line and the scan is repeated. Thus
tests are completed automatically on a grid of test points. The grid points can be as close as 10 mm.
Longitudinal drive
Fixed track
Transducer/Impactor
Transverse drive
Plan View
Scanning frames can be attached to surfaces by anchor bolts or they can be held in place with a
vacuum attachment system. The vacuum attachment system is typically faster to install, but as a
safety precaution the scanner needs to be secured with cables or chains.
The vertical wall scanner that is anchored to the surface has a 1.7 m limit for the transverse scan,
but the longitudinal scan is not limited to any specific distance. For the vacuum system, the scan
limits are 1.4 m in one direction and 1.6 m in the perpendicular direction.
The 2-D scanning system requires two computers. One computer is used to control the movement of
the longitudinal and transverse drives. The other computer is for data acquisition and data
processing.
For a grid spacing of 50 mm, the rate of testing is about 1 m2/h and it takes about 1 h to process the
data for each m2 of testing.
Testing Examples
122
STEPPER
Impact-Echograms
The large number of data obtained during a 2-D impact-echo scan can be used to generate images of
the internal structure of the test object, known as impact-echograms. The technique is illustrated
in the schematic below on the left. For each scan line, each amplitude spectrum is replaced by a dash
at each peak in the spectrum. The amplitude of the peak is indicated by grayscale. When these
dashes are placed next to each other, the result is a cross-sectional image of the reflecting interface
(or a B-scan). A lower frequency corresponds to a deeper reflector as indicated by the basic impactecho equation shown on page 41. Alternatively, a plan view can be obtained for a selected frequency
(or depth). This is called a C-scan and shows the extent of reflectors that are present at the selected
depth. This analogous to a slice in a medical tomogram.
0.2 m
0.3 m
1.0 m
1.5 m
1.5 m
Item
STEPPER drive unit, including
pneumatic system
Order #
STEP-1000
STEP-1010
DOC-50
12 V Battery
STEP-1020
BAM software
STEP-1030
Optional Items
Array attachment for 5 Mark IV
transducers
STEP-1040
STEP-1050
STEP-1060
Item
Vertical wall scanner frame
including X and Y drive motors ,
motor controllers, and pneumatic
system
Adapter for transducer
Computer and software for
controlling frame (specify Linux or
Windows)
Computer and software for data
acquisition and data processing
Optional Items
Vacuum scanner frame: X and Y
drive motors, controllers, and
vacuum plates
Vacuum pump
123
Order #
STEP-1070
STEP-1080
STEP-1090
STEP-1100
STEP-1110
STEP-1120
Surfer
Purpose
Surfer is a compact hand-held instrument for measuring the
propagation speed of a pulse of ultrasonic longitudinal stress
waves. The instrument incorporates two dry-point-contact (DPC)
transducers that are brought into contact with the surface of the
test object. Thus ultrasonic pulse velocity can be measured without
having access to opposite sides of the test object. Surfer can be
used for the following applications:
Assessment of concrete uniformity
Estimation of the extent and severity of deterioration of nearsurface concrete
Evaluate flexural strength of stone panels using correlations
Evaluation of damage to test specimens during durability
testing (freezing and thawing, sulfate attack, alkali-silica
reaction)
Estimation of depth of surface-opening cracks
Estimation of early-age strength development (with correlation)
Principle
Surfer is based on measuring the time it takes for a pulse of longitudinal stress waves (P-waves) to
travel from one transducer to another on the same surface. The nominal distance between the
transducers is 150 mm. Because point transducers are used, the wave pulse travels away from the
transmitting transducer along a spherical wavefront. When the
wavefront arrives at the receiving transducer, a signal is generated.
The instrument measures the pulse transit time from transmitter to
receiver, and computes the pulse velocity using the known distance
between transducers. The transducers are designed to work without
a coupling material (grease or gel). In contrast with traditional pulse
velocity instruments, which are based on through transmission,
Surfer measures the wave speed in the near-surface concrete. Thus
it is not necessary to have access to opposite sides of the test object.
Because there is no cabling, no coupling fluid, and no need to
measure the distance between transducers, measurements can be
made rapidly within 2 to 3 seconds.
Method of operation
There are two modes of operation:
Before making transit time measurements, the menu system and keypad are used to set up the
instrument, which includes entering the exact distance between the transducers. The instrument
includes an liquid crystal display (LCD) that can be set up to display transit time or pulse velocity.
After the set-up parameters have been entered, the transducers
are pressed against the concrete surface with a force between 50 to
100 N (10 to 20 lb). The device will self-activate and begin taking
measurements. The transducers need to be perpendicular to the
surface and a steady pressure needs to be maintained to obtain
accurate and consistent measurements.
When making measurements in reinforced concrete, a
reinforcement locator (see page 33) should be used to establish the
locations of the reinforcement. Orient the Surfer so that the
longitudinal axis is not aligned parallel to the direction of the
reinforcement. The sketch to the right shows acceptable and
124
Surfer
unacceptable positioning of the Surfer. If the device is aligned close to and parallel to the
reinforcement, the stress pulse will refract into the reinforcement and a short transit time will be
measured.
Surfer can also be used to measure the depths of surface-opening
cracks. When the stress pulse reaches the tip of a surface-opening
crack, the stress pulse is diffracted by the crack tip. The diffracted
pulse travels away from the crack tip and is detected by the
receiver. Because the crack increases the length of the travel path
from transmitter to receiver, the transmit time will be greater
than when no crack is present. Crack depth is determined by
making two transit time measurements. The first one is made with
the transducers aligned parallel to the crack, and the second one is
made with the transducers perpendicular to the crack. For the
second measurement, the crack should be at the midpoint between
the transducers. Surfer uses these transit times and the distance
between the transducers to calculate the crack depth:
L
d=
2
tc
tp
Where L is the distance between the transducers, tp is the transit time parallel to the crack, and tc is
the transit time with transducers perpendicular to the crack. The LCD will indicate the two transit
times and the calculated crack depth. The crack depth measurement range is 10 to 50 mm. The
following summarizes the process:
125
Surfer
Because the modulus of elasticity is proportional to the square of the pulse velocity (see page 105),
Surfer can be used as an alternative to resonant frequency testing to monitor deterioration of
specimens used in standard durability tests, such as freezing and thawing. In such tests, the
decrease in the dynamic modulus of elasticity is used as an indicator of deterioration. The elastic
modulus ratio is equal to the square of the pulse velocity ratio:
En Vn
=
Ei Vi
Where Vi and Ei are the initial values of pulse velocity and modulus of elasticity; and Vn and En are
the values of pulse velocity and modulus of elasticity after exposure to the test conditions.
Surfer Specifications
Dry point contact, longitudinal-wave transducers with ceramic wearing tips
50 kHz center frequency
Battery operated (3 AA batteries required)
LCD with backlighting
Transit time range: 15 to 100 s
Transit time measurement accuracy: 1 %
Crack depth measurement range: 10 to 50 mm
Pulse repetition frequency: 5 to 20 Hz
Operating temperature range: -20 to 45 C
Storage capacity: 4000 results
Metric and inch-pound units
Data transfer to computer
Surfer Ordering Numbers
Item
Order #
SUR-1001
SUR-1002
SUR-1003
Software on CD-ROM
SUR-1004
User manual
SUR-1005
126
TORQ-TEST
Purpose
The TORQ-TEST is used to evaluate the shear strength of
Surface concrete
The bond between carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets or strips and concrete
The bond between an overlay and concrete
Principle
A disc with an integral ring, 55-mm inner diameter and 75-mm outer diameter, is bonded to the
surface using a rapid curing adhesive (GRA) and is used to impart shearing stress to the test surface.
For tests of bare concrete, the surface should be prepared first with a diamond grinding tool to
produce a flat surface and to expose the coarse aggregate. Before bonding the ring, a special doublebarrel coring bit is used to produce partial cores as illustrated below. The coring bit diameters match
the inner and outer diameters of the ring.
12
10
55 mm
8
6
4
2
0
0
75 mm
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Peak Force, kN
After the adhesive has cured, a torque is applied to the ring until rupture occurs due to shearing
stress. The torque is applied with a special torque housing that is anchored to the surface. The
loading is accomplished with one of the pull machines used for the CAPO-TEST, as shown on page
23. The load from the pull machine is applied eccentrically to the torque housing, thus producing a
torsional moment.
The peak force is recorded and is converted to a shear strength using the provided conversion
relationship, as shown above (right).
Additional information can be found in the following reference:
Petersen, C.G. and Poulsen, E., In-Situ Testing of Near-to-Surface Layer of Concrete and Epoxy-Bonded CFRP
Strips, US-Canada-Europe Workshop on Bridge Engineering, Zrich, Switzerland, 1997.
Variation
The coefficient of variation of replicate test results is about 10 % on concrete with a maximum
aggregate size of 38 mm.
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TORQ-TEST
Testing Example
Rupture
surface
Pull machine
Torque
housing
Testing with the TORQ-TEST on a bridge girder before application of CFRP strips
Order #
TORQ-810
TORQ-820
TORQ-830
B-11060
TORQ-850
TORQ-860
TORQ-870
TORQ-880
TORQ-890
TORQ-900
Attach case
TORQ-910
Order #
L-11-1
L-13
L-14
L-24
L-25
C-149
C-157
TORQ-920
TORQ-930
TORQ-940
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NDT-Titans
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Durability
Safely loading of structures at early ages
Quality control of finished structure
Upgrading of structures
Locating flaws in dubious structures
Estimating remaining service life
Quality assurance of repairs
Monitoring of structures
The seminars deal with NDT systems in general, outlining the properties measured with the various
systems, the background of the test systems, their benefit(s), their limitations, and the costs. Typical
testing cases are illustrated for each of the categories mentioned above.
2. NDT training courses
There are courses for each of the following subjects and NDT systems:
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NDT-Titans
3. Implementation Support
Support is provided during initial planning and implementation of the NDT systems on a particular
project. Such support is typically related to:
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