Testing the properties of hardened concrete is central to evaluating a structure, whether it is decades old or still under construction. In-place testing of concrete is a significant part of assessing an existing structure's safety and physical condition for routine maintenance before modifications or when changing ownership as a matter of due diligence. For projects in progress, testing hardened concrete with nondestructive or other construction materials tests is often the only acceptable way to resolve quality issues encountered during construction.
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While concrete strength is justifiably a primary factor in the evaluation of hardened concrete, reinforcing steel location and corrosion, moisture characteristics, and physical condition also need to be assessed. This blog post will discuss in-place and nondestructive methods and equipment to measure concrete strength. In addition to the ASTM test methods listed throughout this blog post, we recommend ACI 437R-19: Strength Evaluation of Existing Concrete Buildings from the American Concrete Institute (ACI) as a comprehensive reference for these tests. Another useful guide for these evaluations is ASTM C823, Standard Practice for Examination and Sampling of Hardened Concrete in Constructions.
Whether assessing older concrete or investigating recently failed laboratory tests, in-place compressive strength is the most common factor for consideration. Evaluation of concrete strength can take a couple of different directions. If the goal is to determine uniformity throughout the structure, in-place tests using indirect measurements to compare relative strengths may be sufficient by themselves. These tests are less invasive and provide reliable empirical data. When examining structures where problem areas are unknown, starting with in-place test methods is a fast and efficient way to assess uniformity. This method allows the development of a profile to focus on zones that would benefit from a closer examination. If an accurate estimation of compressive strength is required, strength data from cores must supplement these in-place nondestructive tests.
Core samples are a benchmark for in-place concrete strength determinations. Core samples tested in the laboratory with corrections for orientation and unbound aggregates provide simple, accurate, and straightforward data on actual strength. The obvious problem is that core sampling causes cosmetic and possibly structural damage to the structure.
Carefully planned coring locations minimize the visual and structural impact of the holes. A few cores often suffice as a basis for the correlation of other types of testing to establish reliable concrete strengths. This approach is more efficient and economical, and it reduces damage to the structure.
Concrete coring equipment requires some initial expenditure, but the cost of consumables is low relative to the number of samples taken. ASTM C42 covers the sampling, preparation, and testing of concrete cores.
Concrete test hammers use a spring-loaded mass to impact the concrete surface and record the rebound energy, or R-value, from the impact. Sometimes called Schmidt hammers or Swiss hammers, these economic instruments are quick and straightforward to use for determining concrete uniformity over large areas. When the rebound values are directly correlated to the test cylinder or core sample compressive strengths of the same mix, as described in ASTM C805, a reliable estimate of in-place strength can be developed.
A single operator can use the test hammer to quickly profile the strength uniformity of a more massive concrete structure and define areas requiring more focused testing. The basis of the rebound number is surface hardness, so textured or softer areas will require grinding before performing a test. Damage to the concrete surface from rebound testing is minimal, often leaving just minor dimples on the surface.
Newer versions of this device, such as the digital rebound hammer, use electronic accelerometers to measure rebound numbers. They also provide GPS position recording and web-based reporting, thus improving the accuracy and reliability of testing. For a more in-depth discussion of the concrete test hammer, see our previous blog post Rebound Hammer Test: What You May Not Know.
The Windsor probe method uses a powder-actuated charge (a “blank” firearm cartridge) to drive a hardened steel probe into the concrete surface. Advanced versions of the device feature electronic probe measurement, logging, and calculation of compressive strengths. Three probes driven into a defined area constitute a single test. The exposed lengths of the probes are measured and provide an average penetration resistance. Since the hardness of the aggregate directly affects the penetration, the manufacturer offers a Moh’s hardness test kit for the aggregate and a chart to provide corrected resistance values.
As noted in ASTM C803, establishing a correlation between penetration resistance and compressive strength of similar mix designs allows accurate estimates of concrete strength. The test is relatively easy to run, but the powder-actuated mechanism and high-energy impact require observation of strict safety measures and the use of personal protective equipment. Safety features on the device prevent operation unless firmly pushed into the firing position. Steel probes and blank powder charges are consumables for each test performed with this device. The Windsor probe test will result in some limited surface damage caused by the penetration holes.
Maturity testing requires preliminary testing, planning of concrete placement, and experienced interpretation, but the strength estimates this data provides are proven and reliable. Wired or wireless sensors embedded in the concrete record temperatures of the curing concrete over time to provide a temperature profile. A comparison of in-place temperature history vs. laboratory test data calculates the strength.
This method is beneficial and often specified to predict safe curing times for form removal and reshoring, post-tensioning operations, and putting structures into service. The embedded sensors can also monitor performance over more extended periods. ASTM C and AASHTO methods T 276 and T 325 explain maturity test procedures. Some versions of this concrete maturity testing equipment have automated data logging or remote monitoring features.
Ultrasonic pulse velocity testers use transmitter and receiver transducers to send and receive a timed pulse of ultrasonic energy through a section of concrete. The transit time of the signal indicates the density of the concrete and is affected by voids, inclusions, and discontinuities. This method is optimal for gathering related information on uniformity and detecting internal defects like honeycombing and cracking. Accurate correlations to compressive strengths are possible using the SONREB (SONic-REBound) method¹, an algorithm combining results from pulse velocity and concrete test hammer methods. The operation of the instrument and interpretation of test values requires advanced training and experience. ASTM C597 describes procedures for the use of pulse velocity meters on concrete.
¹Note There is currently no ASTM or AASHTO test procedure for the SONREB method.
We hope this article on the NDT test for concrete strength has given you an idea of what is needed to assess the strength of hardened concrete in place. For more information on the mentioned NDT instruments, visit our nondestructive testing equipment page or please contact our testing experts for questions or help with your application.
Standard Test Methods, Specifications, and Practices
Individual test methods and specifications referenced in our product descriptions, blog articles, and videos are available for review or purchase from the professional organizations noted.
A strong and rich-feature web page is definitely not just an option for companies in the NDT sector but rather a matter of survival. With digital transformation getting faster and customers' expectations growing, NDT companies that have well-designed websites are going to engage the market in an interactive and genuinely user-friendly manner. Notably, a good website should be fast-including, use AI-driven chatbots, and permit real-time booking of services. Consequently, it is evident that the well-structured and designed digital platform is the most significant generator of new and returning visitors for the business.
This blog presents the latest and most important website advances that will make auditing and evaluation software (A&E) functionality faster, easier, and better, including accessibility, interactivity, and SEO. Companies can also learn how customers influenced by digital transformation have come to expect the highest engagement level and best services on the website.
Emerging trends in the Non-destructive Testing (NDT) industry call for well-designed websites that are not only practical communication tools but also a means of maintaining a competitive edge. Website users expect an increasing number of features that will make site navigation simpler, accessibility at a higher level, and ranking higher with search engines.
The article provides a detailed comparison of the updated website features of NDT company, which can meet the requirements of modern users and trends.
Owing to a constantly increasing number of mobile device handlers, which is expected to be seen in 75% of global internet users by , the production of a Responsive Design Website has become a necessity rather than an option. A responsive website betters users' experiences by conforming them to different screen sizes and without altering content, thus allowing users to have the same scene on various gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, or desktops.
This design approach not only enhances the user experience but also plays a central role in Boosting SEO Rankings, as search engines favour mobile-friendly websites.
Industrial aspects such as NDT heavily rely on sites that are extremely fast, and even a second delay is critical. People need quick access to necessary information and services; therefore, Website Speed is crucial in reducing bounce rates and giving a better user experience. Methods like image file reduction, reducing the number of HTTP requests, and caching in the browser are alternatives that can lead to faster loading times.
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If NDT websites are to be found through related searches, then they should concentrate on Good SEO Tactics. The use of keywords that are well related to the NDT services in the body text, the use of Meta tags, and ensuring the content is of a high standard and answers user queries are the essentials of SEO.
Besides, structured data is a central element that aids search engines in the assimilation of information, which in turn helps boost the site's rankings.
The idea behind an accessible webpage is quite simple to grasp, which is to make a website usable to everyone, including disabled users, and to allow users to navigate and interact with it without restriction. The following Accessibility Website Features that have the is fully accessible:
Implementing the mentioned website features goes beyond just complying with the law standards; it also helps to increase the audience reach.
Interactive means can be practical tools for attracting people's attention to NDT websites. Consider combining:
In Realist NDT Companies providing inspection services, the utilization of real-time booking systems allows customers to have it easy and all go well regarding bookings.
This feature enables clients to be updated on available times and book meetings right through the official website; this way, the experience becomes enjoyable, and both the user and the service provider are satisfied.
A powerful CMS enables NDT enterprises to effortlessly modify the contents of their website without necessarily possessing a whole load of technical knowledge. They need to keep clients updated on the most recent developments in the company, the services, or the regulatory changes that may affect them.
First, of its kind, a user-friendly design system helps users find information quickly and keeps the content appropriately structured. Cataloguing content into areas and the use of clear and descriptive labels ensure smooth navigation for the visitors.
Due to the fact that NDT companies have to work with sensitive matters of security, the implementation of security measures commonly used to protect the privacy of data is necessary. Security features like SSL certificates for secure connections and regular security updates that guard the company and its clients from potential cybercrimes are of paramount importance.
Using these tools will help NDT companies keep track of user experiences and behaviour on their websites. The analysis of the data provided by the visitors can help to detect the areas where improvement is needed and can measure the accuracy of marketing strategies.
has a variety of design Trends for the NDT Website, such as:
These features for NDT Websites make more sense to the global to trust on your services and commitment.
The NDT web landscape is developing quickly as technology progresses and customer expectations grow. The concise sentence should be a maximum of 20 words. Plus, these technological innovations, such as responsive design, fast loading times, SEO optimization, accessibility enhancements, a real-time booking system, a solid CMS, and the usability of the navigation, security features, and analytics integration are the main components of be integrated by NDT Companies for them to be able to have better customer service and also to be competitive in the market.
Development in these websites is not just meant to improve the customer experience; they will also enter into the organization of NDT companies as the most competitive businesses by getting involved in the future digital engagement trends that might happen.
1. What are the most admirable features of the NDT website ?
Ans: The new NDT website in must have features such as AI-powered chatbots for questions on live asset management, real-time booking tools, interactive calculators, and video as a tool for visual presentation.
2. What role do AI-powered chatbots play with NDT websites?
Ans: AI-powered chatbots contribute to customer services that have been brought to a higher level with their instantaneous responses; owners/employees find information quickly, and the total user engagement keeps improving.
3. What is the relationship between interactive calculators and NDT websites?
Ans: Interactive calculators give users the ability to calculate the cost of inspections or to figure out what kind of equipment or personnel they need for the job, thus being more informed about these services.
4. What is video attendance for the NDT service sites?
Ans: Video integration, as a critical tool for the customer's buy-in, is a means of streamlined diagnostics and services in a way that not only shows but explains the user-friendly way to improve their knowledge and keep their interest. In other words, video integration is a powerful tool for companies, researchers, doctors, and independent practitioners.
5. How do real-time booking tools improve NDT companies' customer experience?
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