Testing+Evaluation Tools

Our Non-Destructive Testing & Evaluation arsenal includes an array of state-of-the-art equipment. Infrared (IR) cameras (using surface temperature variations) and electrical moisture meters and scanners (using sub-surface variations in dielectric permittivity and conductivity) provide an indication of water saturated roofs, walls, and floors. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) antennas, covermeters, and pachometers (using reflected and induced electromagnetic pulses) and sonic and ultrasonic detection tools (using reflected stress waves) indicate the presence or absence of metal (pipes, beams, rebar, cables, ties, anchors), air, and water (PVC conduit, missing grout, delaminations, voids) in concrete and masonry. Mass magnetic probes (MMP), Schmidt rebound hammers, coating adhesion and anchor pull-out testers, borescopes, thickness gauges, and other devices are used to assess and track the health of roof systems and masonry, concrete, and steel.

Our in-house Materials Testing Laboratory includes an array of state-of-the-art equipment. Microscopes and controlled light sources are used to observe the granular structure of stone. Environmental chambers, calibrated scales, and automated stirrers are used to perform numerous ASTM procedures on stone, slate, brick, mortar, terra cotta, stucco, concrete, plaster, metals, coatings, and painted finishes. Electrodes, chemicals, and chemical test strips are kept in stock for use.

We can monitor (either on-site or remotely) the health and behavior of a building or structure through design and installation of a network of advanced sensors and data acquisition devices. These sensor networks provide real time feedback on important structural changes like stress and strain, excessive vibration, width of an existing crack, or inclination of a parapet. Using internet and cellular technology, salient data may be transmitted to our office for remote analysis, and if necessary, remedial action.

Our monitoring networks incorporate off the shelf components, as well as proprietary devices featuring advances in sensor, power supply and communications technology. Our patent-pending devices are compact and totally self contained. They can be easily deployed throughout a building or structure, with minimal visual impact, and minus the inconvenience of unsightly wiring.

The information provided by a monitoring network allows repairs to be made in a timely and targeted fashion In-situ NDT&E and materials laboratory testing are integrated into our diverse projects and are available as an independent resource to the broader community.