Validation of Sonic/Ultrasonic Nondestructive Testing of PCCP

As indicated in AWWA C304 [the current design standard for Pre-stressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP)], the criterion for pipe serviceability is related to the material properties and state of stress (condition) of the concrete. The condition of the concrete can be evaluated by using sonic/ultrasonic testing to determine the structural condition and strength properties of the concrete core and coating. In many cases, PCCP failure is initiated by coating deterioration or cracking that allows moisture to migrate to the pre-stressing wire causing wire corrosion. This paper is a compilation of validations of sonic/ultrasonic PCCP testing. This testing includes conducting tests on PCCP at critical stages during pipe manufacturing process and testing on PCCP pipelines to identified distressed pipe by the sonic/ultrasonic testing. Distressed pipe located in a pipeline were excavated and removed for additional testing and verification. This paper discusses results obtained from Sonic/ultrasonic testing and the significances of these results.