CONCRETE TEST HAMMER

IN-SITU COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH (fc)

Introduction Concrete test hammer is used for non-destructive measurement of concrete compressive strength. It is fast and easy to carry out and very useful in initial assessment or to determine the extent of weak spots, or to devise the plan for other testing that may be required. Test Method Standard This method to determine maximum compressive strength is in accordance with ASTM C805, BS 1881 Part 202, and DIN 1048
Fig. 1 Concrete Test Hammer (Type N)

Equipment and Apparatus Testing equipment is a concrete test hammer Type N from Proceq of Switzerland. This model has impact energy 0.225 kg-m. Testing Procedure Concrete Hammer testing can be done as follow :

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Identify test position on the concrete surface Remove irregularities or mortar from the concrete surface. Ensure surface is planed and smooth by applying rotary grilling. Release the trigger to allow the plunger to emerge from the instrument Hold the instrument and apply hand pressure to push the plunger against the concrete surface, compressing the internal spring to release the trigger to cause the impact. Press the push button to lock the plunger position and obtain the rebound index from the scale. Also record the angle position of the test. Repeat the test 5 to 10 times for each point. Eleminate any abnormal reading values, then taking the average of the readings. Convert hammer rebound reading (R) into maximum compressive strengths (cute strength) by using conversion curve provided by manufacturer as shown in Figure 3.

Concrete Test Hammer Type N

Zm kg/cm2
Fig 2. Concrete Test Hammer Testing

Hammer rebound R
Fig. 3 Conversion Curve from Rebound R to Compressive Strength

CONCRETE TEST HAMMER

Application of Test Results Test results can be used for various purposes in quality control and inspection, such as : in-situ testing to determine maximum compressive strength of concrete structure quality control for pre-fabricated concrete elements, e.g. slab, wall, pile, etc. identify the extent of damage due to fire, chemical corrosion, etc. Limitation of the Test This method can determine concrete strength at shallow depth from the surface due to low level of energy is applied. As a result, it is suitable in testing the structure element which highest compression occurs at the surface. Test results from hammer test has standard deviation in the range of 15% to 30% due to the nature of the test and the conversion of test result. For more accurate result, the concrete coring should be done and construct correlation between the strengths from hammer test and coring test.

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Fig. 4 Calibration of Concrete Test Hammer

For more information, please contact: STS Engineering Consultants Co., Ltd. Quality Assurance Division 196/10-12 Soi Pradipat 14, Pradipat Road, Samsennai, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Tel. : 0-2618-4288 (10 lines) ext. 265 Fax : 0-2279-8507, 0-2618-6373 http://www.sts.co.th

Version 1.0 Copyright 2004 by STS