Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV)

Ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) testing is used to assess the strength and quality of concrete or natural rocks by measuring the velocity of a pulse propagating through.

Applications of Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity

UPV can be used for quality assessment of beams, columns, walls, slabs or any concrete structure, preferably with access to both sides of the structure.

In the case of one-sided access, indirect transmission can be used. The survey can be done in single shots or in a grid; resulting a one or three-dimensional velocity model of the surveyed structure.

Technology

UPV uses the direct arrival of compression waves generated by a source on one side of the structure. This method can estimate the quality of the concrete by measuring the passing wave velocity, locating honeycombing and internal voids.

It is also used to estimate the compressive strength at the early age of the concrete. The data collection and interpretation is carried out as described in the ASTM C597-02 standard.