Windsor® Pin System: Portable Strength Testing for Construction Materials
The Windsor® Pin System is a highly efficient, non-destructive instrument designed to measure the compressive strength of new or existing construction materials such as concrete, mortar, and brick in situ. Using the established principle of resistance to penetration, it quickly and accurately assesses material strength without the use of explosives.
Standards
- ASTM C803 / C803M - 03(2010)
Standard Test Method for Penetration Resistance of Hardened Concrete - BS 1881-207:1992
Testing concrete. Recommendations for the assessment of concrete strength by near-to-surface tests
Key Features
- Portable and Self-Contained: Easy to transport and use on-site.
- Non-Explosive: Safe for use in all environments.
- Reusable Pins: Economical with steel pins that can be reused multiple times.
- Non-Destructive: Maintains the integrity of the material under test.
- Removable Chuck: Enables precise testing of mortar joints in masonry.
- ASTM C-803 Compliant: Ensures reliable and standardised results.
Applications
- Test the strength of new concrete products and structures.
- Assess the "in-situ" strength of existing materials, especially after damage such as fire.
- Evaluate the strength of block, brick, and mortar joints, particularly in load-bearing walls.
- Quality control for precast elements such as brick slabs, blocks, and pipes.
- Test polymer concrete and patching compounds.
Technical Overview The Windsor® Pin System operates by driving a steel pin into the material surface using a spring-loaded device. The depth of penetration is inversely proportional to the material's compressive strength, allowing for a quick and accurate determination of strength.
The system delivers a maximum force to test compressive strengths up to 5300 PSI (36.9 MPa). A durable, high-strength steel pin, which can be used about seven times, penetrates the surface, and the depth of penetration is measured with a micrometer. The included strength charts allow users to translate this measurement into compressive strength.
For accurate results, it is recommended to take seven readings and discard the two farthest from the mean. This method reduces the chances of skewed results caused by surface flaws or hard aggregate.
Testing Mortar Joints With the chuck removed, the pin driver can test mortar joints. By inserting the V-shaped barrel into the mortar joint, the pin will penetrate the center, providing accurate strength measurements.
Maintenance & Calibration To maintain accuracy, it is advised to return the instrument to James Instruments or an authorised distributor annually for recalibration and cleaning. Replacement of worn components such as the brass loading nut ensures consistent performance.
Specifications
- Model: W-P-2000 Windsor® Pin System
- Pin Box: W-P-1040 (Includes 40 pins and gauge)
- Weight: 18 lbs (8.1 kg)
- Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 6 inches (43 x 30 x 15 cm)
Why Choose the Windsor® Pin System? This system offers a fast, safe, and non-destructive way to assess the compressive strength of a wide range of construction materials. Its portability, reusable components, and compliance with ASTM standards make it an economical and reliable choice for both new construction projects and evaluations of existing structures.