Schmidt Hammer Test
Schmidt/Rebound Hammer test is a Non-destructive testing method of concrete which provide a convenient and rapid indication of the compressive strength of the concrete. The rebound hammer is also called as Schmidt hammer that consist of a spring controlled mass that slides on a plunger within a tubular housing. When the plunger of rebound hammer is pressed against the surface of concrete, a spring controlled mass with a constant energy is made to hit concrete surface to rebound back. The extent of rebound, which is a measure of surface hardness, is measured on a graduated scale. This measured value is designated as Rebound Number (rebound index). A concrete with low strength and low stiffness will absorb more energy to yield in a lower rebound value. The rebound hammer test have the following objectives:
- Determine the compressive strength of the concrete by relating the rebound index and the compressive strength
- Assess the uniformity of the concrete
- Assess the quality of the concrete based on the standard specifications
- Relate one concrete element with other in terms of quality