New testing device for ventilation control devices
Aquacrete and Parsons Brickerhoff have developed a non-destructive, in-situ testing device to predict the effectiveness of and identify defects in ventilation control devices (VCDs).
The gauge uses sound waves to test for strength by striking a surface with a hammer built in to the testing device.
According to Aquacrete its Thickness Gauge can accurately analyse installations without the risk of damaging the material structure of the VCD.
Michael Salu, of Parsons Brickerhoff, said the gauge employs recognised testing equipment in a new application and is an improvement over existing methods.
“Although [it] is a new approach to testing underground VCDs, the method employs recognised testing equipment in a new application… It is difficult, time-consuming and costly to carry out physical sampling and testing of every installed VCD.”
Salu explained how the Gauge works: “It uses sound waves to test a material for integrity and strength properties. It works by striking a surface with a hammer built in to the testing device and then measuring the elapsed time for the sound waves to reflect off the far surface.
“If there are any defects within the material, such as voids, the sound waves will not transmit through and the instrument will record the sound waves bouncing off an apparently thinner section.”
Mine operations can take multiple readings across the surface of the installed VCD, providing further reassurance that the seal has been installed to the required standards, he explained.
For more information contact Aquacrete business development manager, Greg Kay: greg@aquacrete.com.au
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