In-place strength testing hammer
This device for checking the in-place compressive strength of concrete has greater precision than a traditional rebound hammer, especially with high-strength concrete. Developed in Japan by Nitto Construction, the CTS-02 measures the strength of concrete by analyzing the waveform returned from the impact of the hammer on the concrete. It also can indicate any hidden deterioration or delamination and stores up to 500,000 measurements. No polishing is needed and the CTS-02 causes no damage to the concrete surface. For more information, go to www.concretetester.com.
Unbreakable sledge hammer
One of the coolest new tools at WOC this year was the B.A.S.H. (Bad Ass Sledge Hammer), with unbreakable handle technology. Wilton Tools is so sure you won’t break a handle that they are offering $1000 if you do within two years. Steel rods covered with rubber are bonded permanently to the head, providing sure grip, an anti-vibration neck, and no possibility of the head coming loose. The B.A.S.H. comes in sizes from a 2 1/2-pound hand sledge (for about $38) to a full 20-pound sledge (at $160). Go to www.wiltonbash.com to check it out in action.
Quiet, safe pavement
At the World of Concrete (WOC) in January, the International Grooving & Grinding Association presented the results of research on what they are calling the Next Generation Concrete Surface. This new grinding technique for both new and existing concrete pavements results in a surface that is quieter, has increased friction, features improved ride over other concrete surfaces, and is even quieter than rubberized asphalt after two years. The texture is attained with a two-step grind that creates no positive texture (like fins) but only a negative texture. A fairly large test section recently was completed on I-35 in Duluth, Minn., and it has achieved its promise of quiet.
