Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), often termed Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) or Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) within the construction industry, involves a series of techniques used to evaluate the properties of materials, components, or systems without causing damage. This field plays an integral role in the maintenance and safety assurance of buildings, bridges, tunnels, and other structures.

The primary objective of NDT in construction is to detect, quantify, and monitor any defects or anomalies in the materials used, such as concrete, steel, or masonry, which might compromise structural integrity. Tests typically assess factors such as material thickness, internal and surface defects, corrosion, and the bond between materials, all of which are vital for the durability, safety, and performance of structures.

NDT offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it allows for in-situ testing and continuous monitoring of structures without causing any damage or interruption to operations. Secondly, it facilitates proactive maintenance by detecting potential issues before they cause serious structural damage or failure. Lastly, NDT can lead to cost savings by reducing the need for replacements or extensive repairs.

NDT can be performed at various stages throughout a structure’s lifecycle: during construction to verify the quality of workmanship, post-construction to monitor the health of the structure, and after any incident or damage to evaluate the extent of the damage and inform repair strategies.

Below is the list of the most common cement tests that we undertake for our clients. All our        tests are undertaken in accordance with either the British Standard of ASTM:

 

  1. Visual Inspection: The simplest and most common form of NDT, involving the direct observation of a structure or component.
  2. Ultrasonic Testing: Uses high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws or to characterize materials.
  3. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): Employs radar pulses to image the subsurface, useful for detecting reinforcing bars in concrete or identifying voids beneath surfaces.
  4. Magnetic Particle Testing: Involves applying a magnetic field to ferrous materials to identify surface and near-surface defects.
  5. Dye Penetrant Inspection: Helps detect surface-breaking defects in all non-porous materials.
  6. Eddy Current Testing: Employs electromagnetic fields to detect defects in conductive materials.
  7. Radiographic Testing: Uses X-rays or gamma rays to view the internal structure of an object, revealing any hidden flaws.
  8. Acoustic Emission Testing: Monitors the acoustic signals produced by the material under stress, which can provide early warning of structural changes.
  9. Infrared Thermography: Uses infrared cameras to detect thermal anomalies that may indicate structural defects or poor insulation.
  10. Impact Echo Testing: Involves generating a stress wave through a material and measuring the reflection of the wave to identify internal flaws or interfaces.

Please contact us for further details