IMPACT ECHO (IE)
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The Olson Instruments Impact Echo (IE) system is commonly used for rapid flaw detection and thickness
evaluation of concrete and masonry structural materials. The method is normally applied to plate-like
objects such as slabs and walls, but is also used on columns, mat foundations, and beams. The method
requires access to only one side for testing, and can measure not only flaw location, but also depth. This
method is used extensively for slab thickness profiling without the need to drill, core or excavate.
A variation of the impact echo principle for use on large areas and for high resolution imaging is the
Impact Echo Scanning (IES) method. The IES method is based on the Olson Engineering patented
technology of a rolling transducer and automated impactor for near-continuous Impact Echo based
thickness and flaw scanning of structural concrete and pavements. Literally thousands of tests can be
performed per hour when "imaging" of internal concrete conditions is required. Examples of applications
include slab thickness profiling and flaw detection, pavement testing, and for the location of ungrouted
sections of post-tensioning ducts in bridge structures.
When used for quality assurance, forensic testing, and condition evaluation of structures, the IE test with
the NDE-360 system is a powerful, easy to handle and operate tool in verifying structure integrity,
locating defects and determining thickness of the structure. The IE test with the NDE-360 system allows
the user to collect data easily and fast by a single operator with the light handheld device platform and a
touch screen feature to operate the system.
The NDE-360 system with the IE test consists of several basic components. These components include
the 4 channel NDE-360 platform for data acquisition, analysis and display, an IE head with automated
solenoid and a displacement transducer, and cables. Details of the hardware and its usage are included in
Section 2.0.
The Windows WinTFS software is a post data analysis program with a number of specialized IE analysis
tools built-in. This manual covers step-by-step hardware assembly, software setup, data acquisition, data
analysis, and output generation.
This operation manual for the IE test with the NDE-360 system manufactured by Olson Instruments
includes all required instruction for the use of the hardware and software included with the system. Also
included at the end of the manual is a troubleshooting guide for the system to help overcome any
problems experienced or answer any questions. If any problems with the system appear that are not
covered in this manual, please call Olson Instruments at the number included in the front of this manual.
Note that training in the use of the system by Olson Instruments personnel is recommended for the most
effective operation of this system.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Organization and Scope of Manual
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