Crack Width Gauge measures the specified width and length of cracks in concrete structures, pavements, and other structural materials like plaster or drywall. It’s a low cost alternative to a graduated microscope. This low cost alternative is made of durable clear polycarbonate plastic. One side has black marks for direct comparative measurement of cracks from 0.1 to 7mm (0.004 to 0.275in) wide, which is essential for determining the severity of these cracks and assessing the structural integrity to decide whether repairs or maintenance are necessary. The other side has clear 1mm graduations up to 165mm (6.5in) and is easy to use for specified width or length measurements of cracks even in tight corners. Available separately or as part of Crack Monitor Kits. Supplied wi
Introduction to Crack Width Gauge Cards
A crack width gauge card is a handy tool used to measure the specified width of cracks in other building materials, including concrete, masonry, drywall, stucco, glass, and other concrete structures. These cards are designed to provide a quick and easy way to determine the width of a crack. The presence of cracks prior to an inspectors and engineers to assess the severity of the damage, helps them make an informed decisions about repairs or maintenance, thereby contributing to the overall structural health. Crack width gauge cards are often used in conjunction with monitoring programs to track the width and length of cracks over time, ensuring the integrity of concrete structures and other building materials.
What is a Crack Width Gauge?
A crack width gauge is a tool used to measure the width of cracks in concrete and other building materials. Designed for this purpose, it’s a quick and easy way to measure the width of a crack, which is critical to structural assessment and assessing the structural integrity of a building or structure. The gauge has graded lines or markings to measure the width of a crack accurately. Inspectors, engineers, and contractors use crack width gauges to monitor buildings and structures. These gauges provide inspectors with a cost-effective tool for assessing crack widths without the need for expensive equipment.
Features:
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Clear polycarbonate
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Marked in mm
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Markings on two long edges
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Can measure in tight areas
The gauge is compact and portable, about the size of a credit card so easy to carry and use in the field.
Technical Specifications
Crack width gauge cards typically feature a range of technical specifications that make them an essential tool for inspectors and engineers. These specifications may include:
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A specified width range, such as 0.004-0.100 inches (0.10-2.50mm)
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Graded lines or scales that provide precise measurement accuracy of crack widths
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A compact design, similar in size to a standard credit card
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Durable construction, often made from transparent or crystal-clear materials
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A unique serial number or QR code for tracking and verification purposes
Accuracy and Reliability
Concrete crack width gauges are designed to give accurate and reliable measurements of crack widths. Made from high quality materials like transparent plastic or thermoplastic, they ensure measurement precision every time. They are calibrated to specific standards like the American Concrete Institute (ACI) so the measurements are accurate and consistent. Many crack width gauges also have unique serial numbers for engineering traceability and measurem
Included:
Crack Width Gauge
Place the gauge over the crack, align the graded lines or markings with the edges of the crack to compare it to lines of similar width. This measurement tool will give you accurate measurement of crack widths in concrete and other materials.
Plastic Carrying Sleeve
Product Dimensions 6.5 x 1.4in (165 x 35mm) LxW
How to use a Crack Width Gauge
Using a crack width gauge is easy. First locate the cracks prior to your measure and make sure it’s clean and free of debris. Next place the gauge over the crack, align the graded lines or markings with the edges of the crack. Read the width from the gauge, note the width range and increments. Make sure you use the measurement device correctly to get accurate measurements. If you’re unsure how to use the gauge, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consu
Best Practices for Using a Crack Width Gauge Card
To ensure measurement accuracy and reliable results, it’s essential to follow best practices when using a crack width gauge card. Here are some tips:
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Always handle the card with care to avoid damaging the graded lines or scales
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Ensure the card is clean and free from debris before use
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Position the card over the crack, aligning the graded lines with the crack width value
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Read off the width value from the card, taking note of the specified width value or range
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Use the card in conjunction with a monitoring program to track changes in crack width over time
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Consider using a low-cost alternative to graduated microscopes or other measuring devices
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Look for cards with durable construction and a compact design for ease of use in the field
By following these best practices and using a crack width gauge card, inspectors and engineers can ensure accurate and reliable measurements of crack widths, providing valuable insights into the condition of building materials and structures.
Applications and Industries
Concrete crack width gauges have many applications and are used in construction, engineering and building inspection. They are used in structural monitoring to track changes in crack widths and identify potential problems before they become major issues. Concrete crack width gauges are used in quality control and assurance programs to ensure building materials meet specific standards and specifications. They are also used in research and development to advance our knowledge of concrete behavior.
Full Range of Concrete Crack Monitoring Products
Certified Material Testing Products offers Concrete Crack Monitors as part of a full range of concrete testing equipment for roads, bridges and foundations. Need a vandal resistant monitor? The Concrete Crack Monitor Plus is the one for the field. The Economy Crack Comparator is for concrete cracks measurements and monitoring. The Concrete Crack Width Gauge is for measuring width value and locations of cracks before starting a monitoring program. The Concrete Crack Displacement Monitor is for measuring horizontal and displacement movement where there is a step across a crack due to a displacement of “out-o
