Use of the acoustic method for checking the quality of concrete of hydroelectric and pumped storage stations

Conclusion

The investigations established that by means of the nondestructive acoustic methods it is possible to determine and check the physical and mechanical characteristics of concrete in hydraulic structures of hydroelectric and pumped-storage stations under construction and in service with an accuracy sufficient for practial purposes, ±2–10%. The introduction of acoustic inspection fo concrete at hydro construction projects will make it possible to reduce the volume of specimens (cores) being tested and to considerably accelerate the inspection works. The cost effectiveness from using acoustic testing of concrete depends on the volume of inspected structural elements at each hydrotechnical object and can range from 30,000 to 60,000 rubles a year. The use of the acoustic method for determining and checking the physical and mechanical characteristics can be included as part of the inspection works, on-site observations, and investigations according to construction specifications and regulations SNiP III-45-76, SNiP 3.07.01-85, SNiP II-54-77, SNiP 3.09.01-85, and VSN 31-83/Minénergo USSR (USSR Ministry of Power and Electrification), the results of which are aimed at refining the calculation methods, model investigations, and improvement of the technology of performing concreting operations for the purpose of a further reduction of the consumption of materials (consumption of cement, reinforcement, etc.) of concrete and reinforced-concrete hydraulic structures of hydroelectric and pumped-storage stations being planned and under construction.