ASTM D7949-14

5.1 Temperature measurements taken from a thermal probe lowered into access ducts in the deep foundation element, or from embedded thermal sensors distributed along the length, can be used to assess the homogeneity and integrity of concrete both inside and outside the reinforcing cage, as well as placement of the cage relative to the center of the curing concrete.Note 4: If flaws are detected, then further evaluation and potential remediation may be warranted to determine if the flaw is a defect. Any interpretation is qualitative and possibly relative to the particular deep foundation element material, construction characteristics of the tested structure, and the apparatus used. Interpretation therefore should contain proper engineering judgment and experience.

1.1 These test methods provide procedures for measuring the temperature profile within a deep foundation element constructed using cast-in-place concrete, such as bored piles, drilled shafts, augered piles, diaphragm walls, barrettes, and dams, and alike. The thermal profile induced by the curing concrete can be used to evaluate the homogeneity and integrity of the concrete mass within the deep foundation element.

1.2 Two alternative procedures are provided:

1.3 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026, unless superseded by this standard.

1.4 This standard provides minimum requirements for thermal profiling of concrete deep foundation elements. Plans, specifications, and/or provisions prepared by a qualified engineer, and approved by the agency requiring the test, may provide additional requirements and procedures as needed to satisfy the objectives of a particular test program.

1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes, which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7 Limitations—Proper installation of the access ducts or thermal sensors is advised for effective testing and interpretation. If a flaw is detected, then the method does not give the exact type of flaw (for example, inclusion, bulge, honeycombing, lack of cement particles, and alike.) but rather only that a flaw exists. The method is limited primarily to testing the concrete during the early curing process.

1.8 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.