When starting a large scale engineering project, a site assessment of material composition and strength is important. Findings from the analysis can fundamentally change foundation and structural plans. Therefore, coring tests should be performed prior to construction to determine the suitability of the construction site.
What is Asphalt & Concrete Coring?
Asphalt and concrete coring is a process where representative samples from an existing pavement, slab or structure is extracted for analysis. The coring is conducted with a diamond tip core-barrel mounted to an electric drill. Typically, the extracted core measure 4 or 6 inches in diameter. During the coring process, some water is sprayed into the coring location to keep the diamond tipped blade cool as the sample is extracted. The coring locations are patched with the appropriate material following completion.
Why are Asphalt & Concrete Coring Needed?
Asphalt and Concrete coring is typically required on a variety of pavement and structure projects where knowing the thickness of existing components is required. The collection of asphalt and concrete cores are vital for the engineering analysis required. Following a visual inspection of the thickness and materials present, cores can also be sent to laboratories for more detailed material and strength analysis. Laboratory testing of the cores can provide confirmation that the specified materials were included in the mix.
What Types of Projects Require Asphalt & Concrete Coring?
Asphalt Coring is typically required on road widening projects where knowing the thickness of the existing paving is required. Asphalt coring is also performed on a forensic basis to assist in the engineering analysis of pavement failures. The collection of asphalt cores also serves as a means to validate payment to the contractors that installed a specified paving thickness.
Concrete coring is typically performed when renovations are planned within existing spaces where the existing slab or other structural elements are required to support new construction. Often the thickness of the existing concrete is needed for engineering evaluations. Concrete cores are also collected for compressive strength testing when samples were not collected during placement.
Concrete Testing Services in PA & NJ
Earth Engineering conducts asphalt and concrete coring investigations in PA, NJ, and Delaware. Contact one of our team members at either of our 4 locations to discuss your subsurface investigation needs and how Earth Engineering Inc. can help.
Follow Us