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Sonic echo
Dynamic Static Sonic echo Sonic logging

Link to Dr. Bengt H. Fellenius

Low-strain testing (PIT), or sonic echo, is one of the most versatile means of quality assurance when it comes to cast-in-place concrete foundations.  The method consists of generating a sonic wave at the surface of the foundation element using a special handheld hammer, and recording the reflected wave with time by means of a sensitive accelerometer mounted near the impact location.  Potential defects can be detected by the presence of reflected sonic waves measured at a specific time after the initial impact.  PIT has also been used successfully to determine the embedded length of existing foundations and sheet-piles.

PIT system

Typical echo of a concrete caisson

Key Benefits

  • Inexpensive and fast
  • Detects the extent and location of pile or caisson damage
  • Easily performed with completely portable self-contained equipment
  • Allows the inspection of a large number of piles within a short timeframe

 

 

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Last modified: April 10, 2008