Concrete testing is essential for all construction projects. Testing, in general, is a very lengthy and costly process. Traditional methods of concrete testing require additional time to set up equipment, often resulting in delays. However, Giatec’s SmartRock® maturity sensors offer a simple solution and a new modern approach to concrete testing that improves efficiency in this process, eliminating costs and saving time. SmartRock uses wireless technology for monitoring concrete maturity, strength, and temperature in real-time.
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Small but mighty is the perfect descriptor for SmartRock. Weighing a mere 30 grams and only 2″ inches in dimension the SmartRock sensor precisely monitors concrete temperature and strength based on the ASTM C1074 – Standard Practice for Estimating Concrete Strength by Maturity Method. This robust and fully embedded sensor is built to last while also designed to improve the construction of concrete buildings.
The traditional method of determining concrete strength requires laboratory equipment strong enough to break concrete samples. This is where SmartRock proves to be a game-changer, using these novel sensors eliminates the need to conduct break tests. SmartRock is compact and equipped to conduct concrete strength testing in a non-destructive manner.
SmartRock sensors are manufactured for longstanding durability, made with a stellar waterproof body and nanotechnology. A bold example of SmartRock permanence was proven when it was blasted out of a shotcrete gun, surviving with no breakage. Disclaimer: As much as we love the idea, we do not endorse the use of our sensors for shotcrete ammunition.
The proper use of SmartRock is still free of hassles and wires, making for a quick and convenient installment. An accurate reading from SmartRock is ensured when the sensor is placed at a depth no more than 2 inches (5 cm) below the surface. However, temperature readings can be conducted at any depth thanks to the 16 inches (40 cm) thermometer probe.
Activating the sensor is straightforward and non-technical. The two metal wires located beneath the sensor are the manual on and off controls that also serve a practical purpose in providing a securing mechanism for attaching the sensor to the rebar.
Once the sensor is tagged and installed, data reports are intermittently transmitted and updated to the cloud interface every 15 minutes. Given that the SmartRock can transmit data from a range of 26 feet (8 meters), workers on-site can simultaneously collect data from multiple sensors at one time. They then can access their data anywhere and anytime through Giatec’s remote concrete monitoring system SmartHub™. The average battery life of each sensor is 4-5 months, which outlasts the required 28-day period for accurately measuring compressive strength.
SmartRock sensors are revolutionizing the concrete testing process, providing a much cheaper and efficient method for obtaining accurate results.
*Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in January 2018 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
3 Responses
You have estimated how many cubic meters (m3) of concrete a sensor should be placed. regards
Very interesting. Ideal for applications where schedule is an issue. I may have a project where this could be used, if the Engineer of Record is on board. I’m located in Syracuse, New York; do you a local dealer where I can look into it further?
Hi Bob! Thank you for your interest in SmartRock. We will have one of our team members contact you shortly with the information you are requesting.