Holes through masonry structures

[shaurya241100]

Hi Guys,

I just have a situation at site where the core holes were drilled thorugh the masonry abutmnents and masonry spandrel walls of an arch viaduct carrying railway line. The core holes are drilled for masonry strength tests and are 100mm in diameter. I am just wondering what is the best way to fill these holes back. Grouting is one of the commonest approach used in this case but due to the presence of voids behind spandrel walls, the client and contractor are unwilling to use grouting as it could be extensive and also not required as spandrel walls have been strengthened using tie bars across spandel walls tying them together.

Could anyone provide a good idea or tested approach similar to this situation please?
Regards,
Shaurya241100

 

[Ron]

First of all...drilling core holes to check masonry strength is an improper procedure and waste of time...not to mention the likely erroneous interpretation of results.

You can fill the holes with dry-packed grout if you are concerned about grout spread. If you have voids in there, they need to be filled, so why not use grout to fill them?

 

[ishvaaag]

It seems to me a proper procedure what Ron has said. Whatever more hard or mechanical will mean more or less support than required.

 

[msquared48]

Seems to me that the msasonry could be checked with the same type of meter used to check the f'c of concrete after a fire.

If you need to know if reinforcing is there, there are other detectors for that.

As to whether the cells are grouted, a hammer and your ear will tell you that too.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask

 

[dhengr]

I'd put a tie bar with a 400mm dia. plate washer right at those core holes. Don't forget the nut torque.