NABL Accredited · NDT Service
Rebar Cover Depth & Size Test
(Covermeter Survey)
Non-destructive electromagnetic measurement of reinforcing bar cover depth and bar diameter in hardened concrete — essential for corrosion risk assessment, as-built verification and structural assessment.
BS 1881-204
Standard
±2mm
Accuracy
24hr
Report TAT
NABL
Accredited
NABL Accredited Lab · ISO/IEC 17025:2017
Digital Reports via Autovity QLMS
Pan-India · 7 Lab Locations
Est. 2009 · 20,000+ Projects
Overview
What is the Rebar Cover Depth & Size Test?
The Rebar Cover Depth and Size Test uses an electromagnetic covermeter to scan concrete surfaces and measure the depth of cover to the nearest reinforcing bar and estimate bar diameter. Inadequate cover is the primary cause of premature rebar corrosion in RCC structures.
Conducted as per BS 1881-204 and IS 13311, covermeter surveys are routinely conducted for quality control on new construction, as-built verification and condition assessment of existing structures. Global Lab uses Profometer covermeters with digital data logging and 2D cover depth mapping capability.
Rapid Large Area Scanning
Entire slab, column or beam face scanned rapidly for comprehensive cover mapping.
Bar Diameter Estimation
Electromagnetic method estimates bar size — useful when drawings are unavailable.
As-Built Verification
Confirms actual cover matches design drawings — critical for handover documentation.
Corrosion Risk Correlation
Cover depth data combined with carbonation depth for service life prediction.
NABL Certified Reports
All results on NABL-accredited letterhead with 2D cover depth maps.
2D Cover Depth Maps
Profometer generates colour-coded cover depth maps for entire structural elements.
Test in Action
Rebar Cover Depth & Size Test — Site Images
Profometer Covermeter Scanning Column
Grid-Based Cover Depth Survey
2D Cover Depth Map Generated
Test Procedure
How the Rebar Cover Depth & Size Test is Conducted
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1Surface PreparationConcrete surface is cleared of tiles, screeds or coatings that would affect electromagnetic readings.
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2Covermeter CalibrationProfometer is calibrated using calibration plates for the expected bar diameters and cover range.
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3Grid ScanningThe Profometer probe is systematically scanned across the concrete surface in a grid pattern, logging depth readings automatically.
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4Bar Location & Cover ReadingDepth to nearest bar is displayed and logged at each grid point. Bar diameter is estimated from signal amplitude.
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5Data Download & 2D Map GenerationLogged data is downloaded and processed to generate colour-coded 2D cover depth maps. NABL report issued within 24 hours.
Standards & Specifications
Applicable Test Standards
| Standard | Title | Scope | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| BS 1881-204 | Testing Concrete: Recommendations for Use of Electromagnetic Covermeters | Cover Depth | British Standard |
| IS 13311 | Non-Destructive Testing of Concrete — Recommendations | General NDT | Indian Standard |
| ASTM C1383 | Standard Test Method for Measuring the P-Wave Speed and the Thickness of Concrete Plates | Thickness | ASTM |
| EN 12504-2 | Testing Concrete in Structures — Non-Destructive Testing | NDT | European Standard |
Applications
Where is the CAPO Test Used?
Quality control on new RCC construction before concreting completion
As-built survey on completion for handover documentation
Corrosion risk assessment of existing bridges, parking structures and facades
Pre-repair survey to locate low-cover zones requiring intervention
Investigation of spalling and cracking attributed to inadequate cover
Verification of cover after repair and overlay application
Why Choose Global Lab
Our Advantages
NABL Accredited ReportsLegally valid as-built cover depth certificates for all QC requirements.
2D Cover MapsColour-coded maps identify deficient cover zones across entire elements.
Combined Corrosion PackageCover depth + Half-Cell + Carbonation + Galva Pulse as a complete audit.
Pan-India CoverageField engineers across 7 lab locations for rapid site deployment.
Fast TurnaroundOn-site results immediately; formal NABL report within 24 hours.
Profometer EquipmentLatest Proceq Profometer with automatic data logging and 2D mapping.