Tata Steel Utilities and Infrastructure Services Limited, (Tata Steel UISL) ruled the Technical Exhibition held from March 2 to March 5, 2024 at SNTI with its unique project. The Team, Prarup unveiled their project titled "Improvement on concrete core cutting machine to reduce frequent damage of core samples for structural health assessment," showcasing a significant advancement in the field of structural health assessment.
Structural health assessment of concrete structures often involves the collection of cylindrical core samples (50 mm dia, 100 mm length). However, the team discovered a recurring issue – frequent cracks in the core samples during the cutting process, rendering them unsuitable for testing.
Recognizing the need for a solution, the "Prarup" team conducted a thorough study and analysis, pinpointing the root cause – the discontinuous supply of water during the cutting process. Traditionally, water was manually added to the core cutter, resulting in inconsistent hydration and cracks.
To address this challenge, the team introduced an innovative automated water supply system into the core cutting setup. This system ensures a continuous and uniform supply of water during the cutting process, significantly reducing the occurrence of cracks in the core samples.
The solution involves a portable water container equipped with an in-built pumping arrangement, powered by a rechargeable battery. This not only enhances the quality of core samples but also eliminates the need for repetitive cutting, preventing unwanted intrusion into structures and safeguarding their structural integrity.
The "Prarup" team's ingenuity promises to revolutionize the field of structural health assessment, enhancing efficiency and productivity while extending the lifespan of core cutters. Their project represents a commendable stride towards innovation and improvement in the realm of concrete core cutting technology.
