The echo or seismic method of assessing the integrity of piles operates in the time domain and has been used since the 1970's to check the integrity of piled foundations. The system measures the velocity response of a pile to a force input generated by a small hammer. The system is rapid in operation and can be used to check the depth of both pre-cast and cast-in-situ piles. The possible causes of intermediate responses can also be assessed
The TECO system comprises two main elements, the data acquisition hardware and a windows based software package, purpose designed for ease of interpretation and reporting.
The acquisition unit is lightweight, portable and waterproof. It can operate up to 2 days on a single charge and can store over 700 results. Basic analysis can be carried out with the unit on site, including measurement of pile length.
The TEAP software is used to transfer data from the TECO to a pc, carry out analysis of results and produce reports. A simple simulation module is also included for more detailed further analysis of more complex results and is a useful aid to correct data interpretation. The main advantages of the system are :
- Rapid operation
- Low cost
- Reporting and interpretation software for quick analysis
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