Q1: What is the principle and testing method of the dual-velocity method in low strain testing?
A: The dual-velocity method is primarily applied to piles with partially exposed shafts. Two acceleration sensors are mounted at different heights along the pile shaft. By analyzing the time difference and waveform variations between the two sensors, the wave velocity of the pile body can be calculated. Additionally, the velocity curves obtained from both sensors can be used to derive the upward-traveling wave curve, which helps in evaluating reflections from the lower part of the pile. This technique is especially useful for testing existing structures or piles with pile caps, where conventional downward wave analysis is limited.
Q2: What are the possible reasons for weak or no signal response at the pile toe in low strain testing? If caused by improper operation, how can it be avoided?
A:Insufficient impact energy – The hammer may be too light; use a heavier hammer to ensure adequate excitation.Excessive pile length – The pile may exceed the effective testing range of the low strain method.Severe or multiple defects in the pile shaft – Excessive energy loss due to defects can result in no signal from the pile toe.Impedance matching at the pile toe – When the bearing stratum impedance is close to that of the pile and bonding is good, reflections from the pile toe may not be detectable; however, any defects along the shaft can still be identified.
Operational recommendations:
Ensure proper preparation of the pile head, select an appropriate hammer with suitable weight and material, and apply clean, decisive impacts during testing.
Q3: When the waveform quality is poor and the first arrival wave is difficult to identify, is it correct to determine the first wave position using two sensors at different heights?
A: There are generally two possible reasons for this issue:
Defects within the pile itself.
Improper testing procedures, such as excessive lifting speed or the sensor striking the sonic logging tube.
When such problems occur, it is recommended to verify the issue on-site and perform re-sampling to identify the root cause, in order to avoid potential misinterpretation of the test results.
Defects within the pile itself.
Improper testing procedures, such as excessive lifting speed or the sensor striking the sonic logging tube.
When such problems occur, it is recommended to verify the issue on-site and perform re-sampling to identify the root cause, in order to avoid potential misinterpretation of the test results.
Q4: If there is no clear signal from the pile toe, how should the pile toe be evaluated?
A: The absence of a distinct toe reflection can be attributed to several factors:
1.Insufficient excitation energy – A heavier hammer should be used to increase impact energy and new data should be collected. Evaluation should follow relevant standards and consider the geological conditions comprehensively.
2. Influence of pile defects – When two or more significant defects exist in the pile shaft, reflections from the pile toe are often not observed.
3. Impedance matching at the pile toe – If the impedance of the bearing stratum is close to that of the pile and the end contact is well bonded, the toe reflection may be absent. However, any shaft defects can still be detected.In some specific cases, the absence of a toe reflection is considered normal, such as:
● Extra-long piles in soft soil areas with high length-to-diameter ratios
● Strong lateral soil confinement causing rapid stress wave attenuation
● Good impedance matching between the pile shaft and the bearing stratum
● Significant cross-sectional impedance changes or gradual variation along the pile
● Joint gaps in precast pile segments impacting wave transmission
Q1: What is the strain measurement accuracy and range supported by the system?
The system achieves high precision in both 2D and 3D modes—≤20 με for 2D and ≤45 με for 3D measurements. It supports a strain measurement range from 0.005% to 2000%, suitable for both micro-strain and large-deformation applications.
Q2: Can the system handle various sample sizes and geometries?
A: Yes. The system supports a wide measurement field, ranging from 200 mm × 150 mm to 10,000 mm × 10,000 mm, and is not limited by sample shape or size, making it highly versatile for both small-scale material tests and large structural component analysis.
Q3: Does the system support real-time calibration and what calibration modes are available?
A: Absolutely. The system offers dual-mode calibration, supporting both offline and real-time (online) calibration, with instant feedback and result validation to ensure consistent accuracy during tests.
Q4: What additional measurement capabilities does the system have beyond strain?
A: In addition to strain and displacement, the system can integrate laser rangefinders (0–100 m, ±1 mm accuracy) and temperature detection modules capable of monitoring from -40°C to 2800°C, enabling multi-parameter synchronized testing and broader analysis in complex scenarios.
Q1: when is the right time to do a PDA test on the foundation piles
A: The specific test period should refer to the requirements of the corresponding specification or standard. According to a lot of testing experience, for Bored piles, the PDA test can be carried out when the pile foundation reaches the strength requirements after about 28 days of pile formation; for RC piles or Spun pile, the pile rest period should be reached, and the test should be carried out about 14 days after Piling.
Q2: How much minimum settlement could accept when testing in field?
A: It is determined according to the selected standard requirements. The requirements of each standard are different. The Chinese construction industry standard is 2-6mm,In Chinese Mainland, a large number of experimental data show that the bearing capacity results obtained when the pile settlement after hammering is within the range of 2-8mm are the most accurate.
Q3: What must do if we cannot repeat hammering on site?
A: If the pile does not meet the conditions for repeated test, pre acquisition is required before the test to ensure that effective signals can be obtained by one acquisition
Q4:What is Minimum/Maximum Diameter and Minimum/Maximum Depth of Pile can be tested by this device?
A: maximum and minimum diameter is unlimited, the depth requirements meet the principle requirements of one-dimensional stress wave rod. Because the high strain test energy is large and the incident pulse width is wide, the requirement for the length diameter ratio of the pile is greater
Q1: Can the RSM-FBN(B) measure deflection without placing any physical targets on the structure?
A: Yes. The system uses advanced digital image correlation and natural surface texture recognition. It operates in a fully target-free mode—no physical markers are required, allowing for fast setup and immediate measurement.
Q2: What is the maximum working range, and how does accuracy change with distance?
A: The working distance is up to 500 meters. At 10 meters, the system offers ±0.02 mm accuracy; at 100 meters, ±1 mm; and at 500 meters, ±10 mm. Sub-pixel tracking ensures high accuracy even at long distances.
Q3: How many measurement points can be captured simultaneously?
A: For dynamic deflection, up to 4 points can be measured simultaneously in real time. For static deflection, there is no limit to the number of measurement points that can be analyzed from captured images.
Q4: Can this device operate effectively in outdoor or harsh environments?
A: Yes. The main unit is IP65-rated for dust and water resistance, and it includes anti-interference algorithms to mitigate the effects of light variation, noise, and other environmental factors—ensuring stable and reliable performance.
Q1: Can the RSM-DCT(F) operate without a control host on site?
A: Yes. The system features an all-in-one design with wireless laptop control, eliminating the need for a dedicated host. Operators can monitor, record, and control the system directly via a Windows 10 or above laptop.
Q2: What is the imaging quality and field of view for this device?
A: The camera captures at 5 megapixels with an image resolution of 2592×1944 and a density of 55 pixels/cm, delivering ultra-HD visuals with fast frame rates of 25 fps. It supports panoramic unfolding and 360° borehole observation.
Q3: What types of defects or geological features can it detect?
A: The system is ideal for inspecting pile core samples, voids, cracks, segregation, and joint conditions. It also helps visualize rock layers, faults, fractures, and karst features in boreholes—useful for both civil and geological applications.
Q4: Is the system durable for deep and long-duration inspections?
A: Absolutely. The stainless steel probe is built with high-pressure (3MPa) tolerance, special sealing, and anti-fogging design. It supports testing depths up to 300 meters with a runtime of ≥10 hours, ensuring long-term, stable performance in the field.
Q1: Can the RSM-HGT(D) be used for dry hole testing?
A: Yes. The RSM-HGT(D) supports both wet and dry hole testing. With strong signal excitation and adaptive detection capabilities, it performs reliably even under complex geological conditions.
Q2: Will the device still work effectively in high-density slurry conditions (e.g., 1.4 g/cm³)?
A: Absolutely. The instrument’s high emission energy and advanced signal processing allow it to clearly identify the first arrival wave even in heavy slurry environments with minimal sand content.
Q3: Does the system support 3D borehole visualization?
A: Yes. It features intelligent borehole recognition and real-time 3D simulation, providing intuitive and accurate visual output of the borehole geometry for on-site assessment.
Q4: Is the winch system automated?
A: Yes. The standard configuration includes the RSM Auto Double Winch, which supports stepless speed control, remote operation, fast emergency lifting, and automatic stop at both the borehole bottom and surface—ensuring safe and efficient testing.
Q1: What is the minimum pipe diameter supported by the RSM-RTV(E) robot?
A: The RSM-RTV(E) is suitable for inspecting underground pipelines with a diameter of 300 mm or greater, making it ideal for a wide range of municipal and industrial applications.
Q2: Is the robot capable of operating in harsh or wet environments?
A: Yes. The crawler unit is IP68-rated, providing full dust and water protection. It also features a rugged chassis, anti-collision design, and wide temperature tolerance from -10°C to 50°C.
Q3: Can the system perform real-time defect marking and generate inspection reports on site?
A: Absolutely. The system supports simultaneous video recording and defect annotation, and can automatically generate inspection reports during the detection process—enabling efficient, on-site documentation.
Q4: How is the robot controlled, and what devices are supported?
A: The RSM-RTV(E) can be controlled via laptop, tablet, or smartphone, supporting both Windows and Android platforms. The control software displays real-time video, positioning, travel status, and allows full control over camera movement, zoom, lighting, and data capture.
What testing methods does the RSM-SY6(C) support?
It supports cross-hole sonic logging for pile integrity, ultrasonic-rebound combined strength testing, concrete crack-depth analysis, rock mass longitudinal-wave velocity measurement, tunnel loosen-zone detection, diaphragm-wall integrity checks, and detection of voids/honeycombing/bonding quality in concrete.
Is it suitable for harsh field conditions, and how portable is it?
Yes. The SY6(C) uses an 8.4-inch industrial-grade capacitive touchscreen, has an IP65 dust/water-resistant ABS+PC housing, and weighs about 2.0 kg (incl. battery). The ultra-thin removable battery provides ≥8 hours of operation and supports Type-C charging—making it highly portable and field-ready.
What’s included in the standard configuration?
The kit includes the cross-hole sonic logging tester, one-transmitting/one-receiving cross-hole probes (3 pcs), plane acoustic probes (2 pcs), plane probe connecting cables (2 pcs), pipe-orifice pulleys (4 pcs), a depth counter with connecting cable, tripod, power adapter, toolkit, and an instrument container.
What types of tests and standards does the RSM-SLT(C) support?
It supports static load tests for foundation piles (compression, uplift, lateral, PV piles), anchor rods (basic, creep, acceptance, locking force, uplift), plate load tests, and anchor bolts/soil nails. It aligns with major standards including ASTM D1143 (axial compression), ASTM D3689 (axial tension), ASTM D3966 (lateral load), and ASTM D8169 (bi-directional compression). Test methods can be customized to local codes.
How accurate is the load control and how does it improve on-site safety?
The system offers fully automated loading/unloading with control error ≤0.5 kN, reducing human error and ensuring repeatability. Operators can monitor and control tests via a mobile app with built-in protection functions, allowing them to stay clear of hazardous areas.
What hardware features make it portable and field-ready?
It integrates a compact high-pressure micro pump (up to 70 MPa), high-precision wireless displacement sensors (IP67, ≥15 days continuous work), and multiple power options (dedicated lithium battery or AC). Wireless communication with the host exceeds 1000 m, and the pump unit itself weighs ≤28 kg, suitable for confined or remote sites.
What makes the RSM-SY8(C) different from traditional cross-hole sonic logging systems?
A: It integrates CT imaging for piles and captures data across 4 tubes and 18 profiles in a single lift, reconstructing 3D defect models that show defect size, range, and location in real time—significantly improving speed and clarity versus conventional methods.
Q2: What applications and standards does it support?
A: Typical uses include acoustic pile tomography and integrity testing, concrete crack depth and ultrasonic-rebound strength evaluation, rock mass wave-velocity tests, tunnel loosen-zone detection, and diaphragm wall integrity checks. It complies with ASTM D6760 for ultrasonic cross-hole testing of deep foundations.
Q3: Is it field-ready? What are the key hardware specs?
A: Yes. It features IP65 protection, a 12.1" industrial-grade capacitive touchscreen, and a 9 mm ultra-thin removable battery with ≥7 h life. The system supports wireless depth counting, 1 cm depth resolution, and a maximum lifting speed up to 60 m/min; the host weighs about 3.0 kg (incl. battery).
What test types and standards does the RSM-JC6(E) support?
It covers static axial compression, tension, lateral load, plate load, bi-directional compression, and anchor rod load tests. It aligns with major standards including ASTM D8169 (bi-directional compression), ASTM D1143 (axial compression), ASTM D3689 (axial tension), and ASTM D3966 (lateral load), and supports domestic/local codes.
How does the system improve field safety and control?
The host and control box support wireless networking with over 1000 m range, plus smartphone mirroring for remote operation. The integrated DC fully automatic oil pump offers auto-reversal and adjustable flow for precise, hands-off loading—keeping operators away from hazardous zones.
What are the key hardware specs for sensors, accuracy, and power?
Displacement resolution is 0.01 mm with 0.1% FS accuracy; pressure/load measurement accuracy is up to ±0.25% FS. Wireless displacement sensors are IP67, run >15 days per charge, and work within 50 m of the test point. The pump supports up to 70 MPa, and the system offers multiple power options, including a 60 V lithium battery.
What does the RSM-RLT(C) actually measure and where is it used?
It uses the magnetic logging method with a high-precision 3D magnetoresistive probe to measure the length of reinforcement cages—including joint positions—in cast-in-place concrete piles and prestressed pipe piles, providing fast, repeatable, and intuitive results.
What are the key specs that impact field performance?
Depth resolution is < 0.1 cm with depth error better than 0.5% FS, maximum testing depth 150 m, minimum sampling interval 50 mm, and sensor resolution better than 50 nT (range ±200,000 nT). The system operates about 6 hours on a detachable lithium battery and works from -10 ℃ to +55 ℃.
How portable and efficient is it on site?
The compact host (approx. 2 kg, 265×200×56 mm) and winch are easy to carry. A built-in slip ring enables real-time sampling while winding, and bidirectional detection helps distinguish changes in main reinforcement count. The 8.4" industrial-grade capacitive screen keeps signals clear under varied lighting.
What is the RSM-PST(A) used for, and what does it measure?
It’s a non-destructive parallel seismic tester designed for piles beneath existing buildings, bridges, and deep foundations. It measures pile length, average body-wave velocity, and end-bearing stratum velocity to support structural assessment and rehabilitation.
Which standard does it follow, and what ensures reliable signals on site?
It follows JGJ/T 422-2018 (Technical Standard for Testing Foundation of Existing Buildings). Reliable acquisition is achieved via instantaneous floating-point amplification (high SNR for strong/weak signals) and a tailor-made lever-type three-component geophone that maintains solid wall adherence.
What are the key hardware specs that affect field performance and portability?
12.1" LCD, 0.1–4000 Hz bandwidth, 24-bit instantaneous floating-point A/D, 5–20000 μs adjustable sampling interval, ≥100 dB dynamic range, wired acquisition with external trigger, USB data export, detachable Li battery (≥6 h), −20℃ to +55℃ operating temperature, and ~2.0 kg total weight for the host—making it rugged and easy to carry.
What tests does the RSM-JC6(D) support and which standards does it comply with?
It supports static axial compression, axial tension, lateral load, plate load, bi-directional compression, and anchor rod load testing. It complies with major standards, including ASTM D8169 (bi-directional compression), ASTM D1143 (axial compression), ASTM D3689 (axial tension), and ASTM D3966 (lateral load), and can meet domestic/local codes.
How does the system enhance safety and automation on site?
A single host can control up to three test points with automatic loading/unloading, stabilization, and real-time alarms. The remote e+ control via mobile app enables long-distance wireless operation so operators can stay away from hazardous zones. The new digital CNC box adds GPS/BeiDou positioning plus real-time displacement/pressure display and early-warning functions.
What key hardware specs affect accuracy, connectivity, and field readiness?
Wireless range is ≥1000 m; displacement resolution is ≥0.01 mm with error ≤0.1% FS; pressure/load accuracy up to ±0.25% FS. Wireless absolute displacement sensors are IP67 with >15 days endurance. The host features a 12.1″ high-brightness capacitive touchscreen, IP65 protection, multi-channel data upload (4G/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth), and supports AC power or removable lithium battery.
What’s the key innovation of the RSM-SY7(D) compared with traditional cross-hole systems?
It uses a patented four-channel self-transmitting & self-receiving design that completes 4 pipes / 6 profiles in a single lift—no probe repositioning—greatly boosting efficiency while maintaining clear real-time waveform visualization.
Which applications and standards does it support?
Typical applications include acoustic pile integrity testing, concrete crack depth, ultrasonic-rebound strength, rock mass wave-velocity, tunnel loosen-zone detection, and diaphragm-wall integrity checks. It complies with ASTM D6760 for ultrasonic crosshole testing of deep foundations.
Is it field-ready? What specs matter on site?
Yes. It features IP65 protection, a 12.1″ industrial capacitive screen, 9 mm ultra-thin removable battery with ≥7–10 h endurance, 1 cm minimum depth spacing, ≥100 dB dynamic range, automatic depth counting, and lifting speeds up to 1.0 m/s (60 m/min). Data export via USB; lifting device supports wired/wireless connection.