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1.0
Introduction
The ColcheK 2
™ is a specialised, non-destructive inspection tool for the detection and
estimation of corrosion damage near and below ground level in planted, steel lighting columns
and similar structures.
At and just below ground level around lighting columns there is an environment rich in
moisture, chlorides and oxygen, an environment which promotes the corrosion of steel
structures. The high stress zone for lighting columns is also at ground level, consequently, any
loss of metal in this region can significantly reduce the strength of the column and may lead
to collapse. Unfortunately, the corrosion can be just below ground level, on the external
surface of the column and impossible to see without expensive excavation.
Allowing you to check this critical zone without having to excavate or in any other way prepare
the column., the ColcheK 2
™ is a unique application of the through transmission, eddy-current
inspection technique. No preliminary preparation of the lighting column is required, the low
frequency electromagnetic system is non-contacting and does not emit or use any hazardous
radiation.
By design, no special skills are required to use the ColcheK 2
™ or interpret the results.
The ColcheK 2
™ works by comparing the wall thickness of the column at and below ground
level with the thickness above ground (around 150mm above ground), At this above ground
point there is rarely any major damage, and any significant corrosion can be easily seen.
1.1
Unsuitable applications
NOT suitable for the inspection of the swage joint on lighting columns
NOT suitable for the inspection of flange mounted columns
NOT suitable for the inspection of aluminium or stainless-steel columns
