Thermal Integrity Profiling
Thermal Integrity Profiling (TIP) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method used to evaluate the as-built condition of concrete deep foundations by measuring temperature variations during concrete curing.
The method is based on the principle that cement hydration generates heat, and any variation in shaft geometry, concrete quality, or material continuity affects the heat distribution.
The test provides continuous information along the full depth of the shaft or pile, allowing engineers to assess diameter consistency, detect anomalies, and estimate concrete cover.
The TIP test can effectively be paired with other pile integrity test methods such as PIT and CSL
Advantages of Thermal Integrity Profiling
The TIP test offers several advantages:
- Early Detection: Defects can be identified shortly after concrete placement, before significant curing occurs.
- Full-Length Coverage: The test evaluates the entire shaft length, including regions near the top and bottom where defects are common.
- Quantitative Results: TIP provides estimates of shaft diameter, concrete uniformity, and thermal symmetry.
- Non-Destructive: No coring or excavation is required.
- Construction Quality Verification: TIP supports quality assurance programs for critical foundation elements.
Relevant Standards and Guidelines
The Thermal Integrity Profiling (TIP) is standardized as:
- ASTM D7949-25 (2025), Standard Test Methods for Integrity Testing of Concrete Deep Foundations by Thermal Methods.
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