Experimental Trials to Detect Breaks of Reinforcing Bars with the Magnetic Flux Leakage Method (AGB2009/006)
Overview
Background & policy context:
The scope of this research is to clarify whether breaks of reinforcing steel bars can be detected and localised with the magnetic flux leakage method.
Tests are executed to detect and collect typical patterns of the magnetic flux density for common and planned inhomogeneities on one hand and breaks and reductions in cross section on the other hand. With the knowledge of this pattern, the number of misinterpretations can be reduced.
The trials shall give information on which magnets are suitable to magnetise the mild steel reinforcement and which sensors work best to measure the magnetic flux density.
To guide the sensors along the concrete surfaces an appropriate positioning system has to be developed.
Whether existing/available software for data acquisition and interpretation can be used or whether new software has to be developed is also subject to further considerations.
Objectives:
In the long term the research aims at a non-destructive detection of breaks and deficiencies of reinforcing steel bars in bond with concrete.
Intermediate aims are:
- Identification of suitable magnets and sensors and adjustment to the specific conditions of the materials to be examined.
- Recognition and collection of typical patterns of the measured values for bar crossings, splices, bending-ups, etc.
- Development of graphical representations of the measured values, leading to an imaging technique.
- Like this a practical tool for the engineer shall be provided, which enables him on site to make a statement on the existence of breaks or deficiencies.
Methodology:
Following metodology was used in the project:
- Literature review,
- Lab tests,
- Graphical representation of measured value
Share this page