Concrete Ultrasonic Testing

Ultrasonic Testing

Ultrasonic testing of concrete is an in-situ, nondestructive test to check thickness measurements of concrete and tunnel linings; determining localized defects such as voids, honeycombing; depth and extent of delaminations, and the detection of objects in the concrete such as pipes and tendon ducts beyond the rebar layer. Ultasonic testing can also be used to monitor the strength and deterioration of concrete, which may have occurred due to age, fire, frost or chemical attack.

Ultrasonic testing is conducted by passing a pulse of ultrasonic waves through the concrete to be tested and measuring the time taken by the pulse to get through the structure. Higher velocities indicate good quality and continuity of the material, while slower velocities may indicate concrete with many cracks or voids. Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity has proven to be an effective non-destructive testing method for quality control of concrete materials and detecting damages to structural concrete. This testing method is outlined in ASTM D597.

The concept behind the technology is based in the measurement of the travel time of acoustic waves through concrete, and correlating them to the known elastic properties and density of the material. The travel time of the ultrasonic waves reflects the internal condition of material. In general, for a given trajectory, higher travel times correlate to low-quality concrete containing anomalies and deficiencies, while lower travel times correlate to high-quality concrete with fewer anomalies.

Humboldt provides a wide selection of ultrasonic testing equipment from several manufacturers to choose from. If you have questions or need help selecting equipment, please call us at 1.800.544.7220 or use our Ask Humboldt form.

Click here to learn more about non-destructive testing principles and testing techniques.