Non Destructive Test - Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test

Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Tests Application: 

These tests are primarily done to establish: 

• The homogeneity of concrete

• Ppresence of cracks, voids and other imperfections

• Changes in quality of concrete over time 

• This test does not establish compression strength of tested concrete UPV Tests are done in accordance with Indian standards IS: 13311 (Part 1) Procedure:

• The concrete surface where probes are to be applied is cleaned properly.

• Grease is applied on the test surfaces

• The probes are pressed on the surface of the structural element to remove air gaps. 

• Distance between the two probes is noted. 

• Read time taken for the ultrasonic pulse from the instrument. 

• Calculate Velocity = distance / time 

Pulse velocity by cross probing Concrete Quality Grading

 1 Above 4.5 km/s Excellent 

2 3.5 km/s to 4.5 km/s Good 

3 3.0 km/s to 3.5 km/s Medium 

4 Below 3.0 km/s Doubtful