Upgraded ISRM Suggested Method for Determining Sound Velocity by Ultrasonic Pulse Transmission Technique

Upgraded ISRM suggested method for determining sound velocity by ultrasonic pulse transmission technique covers the first two approaches, the so-called high and low frequency ultrasonic pulse techniques. This suggested method concentrates on the issues pertaining to the direct transmission configuration of the pitch-catch technique, and thus the influences of the near field length. Ultrasonic test procedure for pitch-catch configurations is quite straightforward especially if analysis of frequency spectrum is not to be conducted. Determination of ultrasonic P-wave velocity and S-wave velocity of a test specimen requires measurement of two basic variables, the length of wave travel path and the length of travel time of each wave type. Specimens can be tested dry or fully saturated or at in situ moisture content. The measured wave travel time through a specimen may need to be corrected for a small amount of system response delay time.