An Introduction to Cross-hole Sonic Logging of Concrete in Drilled Piers

Cross-hole Sonic Logging is a non-destructive quality assurance method that is used to assess the integrity of bored piles, barrettes and slurry walls, and is based on ultrasonic pulse velocity and attenuation measurements along the length of the structure. The technique is widely used in the United States of America, Europe and certain Asian countries.

Placement defects such as soil intrusions, voids, unconsolidated or un-cured concrete result in lower velocities and higher attenuation at affected elevations on the logging data. It is possible to further delineate anomalous zones using tomographic imaging.

The presentation will provide an overview of the method, covering theoretical background, practical considerations and best practice recommendations, as well as example data related to case studies.