Recent advances in ultrasonic pile testing

The cross hole ultrasonic test has proved to be the most powerful means for the quality control of bored piles. After a short overview of the relevant theory, the paper presents the shortcomings of existing testing systems. It then goes on to describe a new generation of ultrasonic instrumentation, made possible by recent advances in portable computing power. The main advantages of these instruments are: Improved signal processing, reliable determination of first arrival time and real-time tomographic capability. The test results may be further processed in the office and then presented in various forms, thus enhancing the interpretation process.