OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

RM MK II
CONCRETE RESISTIVITY METER
MODEL U95

CNS Farnell Limited

Elstree Business Centre, Elstree Way,
Borehamwood, Hertfordshire,
England. WD6 1RX

Telephone: +44 (0)20 8238 6900

Facsimile: +44 (0)20 8238 6901

Email: admin@cnsfarnell.com
Website: www.cnsfarnell.com
CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 3

2 USING THE RM MKII 4

2.1 PROBE SPACING 4

2.2 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION OF PROBE TO THE RM 4
2.3 SURFACE CONTACT 4
2.4 MAKING A RESISTIVITY MEASUREMENT 5

3 RESISTIVITY MEASUREMENT PROBLEMS 6

4 USING THE RM MKII TO MEASURE RESISTANCE 8

5 MAINTENANCE OF THE WENNER PROBE. 8

5.1 REPLACING THE WENNER PROBE TIPS. 8

5.2 EASING THE SPRUNG PROBES 9

6 BATTERY REPLACEMENT 9

7 REMOTE OPERATION OF THE RM MKII 9

8 SPECIFICATION OF THE RM MKII 10

8.1 RESISTIVITY MEASUREMENTS. 10

8.2 RESISTANCE MEASUREMENTS 11
8.3 CURRENT MEASUREMENTS 11
8.4 GENERAL SPECIFICATION. 12

9 THE CNS FARNELL RESISTIVITY METER MKII (RM MKII) 14

10 BIBLIOGRAPHY 16

11 EU DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY 16

RM Concrete Resistivity Meter Operating Manual © CNS Farnell Limited 2008 All rights reserved . Page 2 of 16
INTRODUCTION

The measurement and detection of the corrosion of steel reinforcement (rebar) within concrete
structures using a half-cell has become well established within the civil engineering industry.

Using the CNS Farnell SCHOLAR with half-cell/potential wheel, ‘potential’ areas of corrosion
activity can be quickly identified. However, the potentials measured give no indication of the
degree of the corrosion activity, that is, they give no indication of the level of the corrosion
currents flowing between anodic and cathodic areas. The potential measured gives only a
measure of the ‘potential’, or likelihood, of the rebar to corrode. In order to estimate the levels of
the corrosion currents flowing, some means of measuring the resistance of the concrete in areas
of ‘high probability of corrosion’ is required. A well-known problem can also occur when
measuring half cell potential, where high values are encountered when measuring very damp
concrete. This phenomenon is caused by oxygen starvation and does not necessarily relate to
corrosion. The resistivity of such areas is likely to be high and can provide reassurance that, in
practice, no significant corrosion problem exists.

A paper in the British Journal of Non-Destructive Testing, by Dr S.G Millard et al entitled

‘Measurement of the electrical resistivity of reinforced concrete structures for the assessment of
corrosion risk’, discusses the technique of concrete resistivity measurements and the value of
doing so. For an appreciation of the measurement principle this article is essential reading.
Copies are available on request from CNS Farnell Limited.

For a number of years, Earth Resistance meters – developed by geologists to measure the
resistivity of soil when investigating soil strata – have been used on concrete using a linear 4-probe
array known as a Wenner array (see BJNDT article), with limited success. The main problem has
been that such ‘earth resistance’ measuring meters use current sources and voltage measuring
circuitry that, although ideal for low resistivity soils, are totally unsuitable for use on relatively high
resistivity concrete where the concrete/probe electrical contact is a major problem. Specially
designed electronic circuitry is essential to overcome the problems unique to the measurement of
concrete resistivity.

In the BJNDT article referred to above, the author discusses the development of suitable
instrumentation for the measurement of concrete resistivity and refers briefly to the patented
operating principle of an alternative design of Resistivity Meter. The CNS Farnell Resistivity Meter
that you now own operates on that patented technique and is believed to be the best instrument
available for the measurement of the purely resistive component of concrete resistivity. For a
comparison of the type of instrument which Dr. Millard et al describe and the CNS Farnell
instrument you have purchased, you can request a copy of a paper entitled ‘Resistivity
Measurements in Concrete’, from CNS Farnell.

For full details of the papers, see the Bibliography at the end of this manual.

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USING THE RM MKII

1.1 PROBE SPACING

The Resistivity Meter and Probe is intended for making surface measurements of concrete
resistivity by placing the probes on the surface of the concrete to be measured. It is assumed that
a Wenner configuration of the probes is to be used i.e. equal spacing between the probes. Other
configurations are possible, (see the article by N.J.M. Wilkins), but these should not be used
without a full appreciation of the consequences.

The choice of probe spacing will depend upon a number of things: the depth of the concrete, the
size and depth of the rebar mesh, the contact area of the probes and the desired depth of
influence of the overall measurement. For a better appreciation of the consequences of the probe
spacing, see section 2.1.1 of the Millard article. The restriction on the minimum probe spacing,
apart from that of the aggregate size, is determined by the contact area of the probes. It is
generally accepted that the spacing should not be less than about ten times the probe diameter.
For a tip dia of 3mm a minimum spacing of 30mm is thus recommended, but 20mm could be
acceptable. In practice, on reasonably sized concrete specimens and structures a spacing of 50mm
will be found to be generally satisfactory.

1.2 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION OF PROBE TO THE RM

The probe is connected to the RM via a separate probe cable.

1.3 SURFACE CONTACT

This is probably the most important and critical aspect of carrying out a measurement on the
surface of concrete. The stainless steel probes are provided with porous wooden tips which have
plastic covers containing water. The tips of the probes should thus be saturated with water and
ready for use at any time.

BE SURE TO REPLACE THE TIP COVERS, FULL OF WATER, WHEN THE PROBES ARE NOT IN USE.

The surface of the concrete to be measured should be free from dirt and grease. Brushing with a
stiff brush will remove any dust and dirt particles – it may be satisfactory simply to wipe a grease-
free cloth across the surface. If there are any signs of grease present, then it must be removed.
This may be possible using a clean cloth dipped in a suitable solvent. However, such a cleaning
process may only serve to spread the grease into the pores of the concrete, producing a thin
insulating film. An alternative method is to scrape as much of the grease off as possible and then
remove the immediate surface layer of concrete – by grinding or chipping – where the probes are
to make contact. If a solvent can be used successfully, then time must be allowed for it to
evaporate before attempting any measurements. As a last resort, it is also possible to drill small
diameter holes into the concrete at the same spacing as used for the probes, then to insert the
probes into the holes (after blowing out dust). It is worth bearing in mind that areas covered in oil

RM Concrete Resistivity Meter Operating Manual © CNS Farnell Limited 2008 All rights reserved . Page 4 of 16
or grease are likely to be of little interest since such a coating can afford a certain degree of
protection to the concrete surface. It would be worth measuring the resistivity in the immediately
surrounding areas before attempting to measure the ‘greasy’ area. A decision as to the likely
value of measuring the ‘greasy’ area can then be made before proceeding further.

The electrical contact between the probes and the concrete relies on the fact that the porous
wooden probe tips are saturated with water. The relatively soft nature of the wooden tip also
helps to ensure a good area of contact. The RM has been specifically designed to cope with the
inevitable contact resistances created at the probe/concrete interfaces and no problems should be
encountered providing the wooden tips are kept saturated with water and/or the indicated total
‘contact’ resistance is low enough for a steady resistivity reading to be obtained. It is
recommended that a small trough of water should be kept nearby, into which the probes may be
dipped from time to time. Regular monitoring of the total contact resistance will guide you as to
the necessity of doing this.

N.B. In time, the wooden tips will become worn and will need to be replaced. The material used is
3mm dia RAMIN dowelling. A spare length of the dowelling is included in your kit and details of
how to replace the tips is given later in the manual.

DO NOT BE TEMPTED TO SPRAY THE SURFACE OF THE CONCRETE WITH WATER, AS THIS IS
LIKELY TO SERIOUSLY AFFECT THE RESISTIVITY OF THE CONCRETE, PRODUCING AN INITIAL THIN
SURFACE LAYER OF MATERIAL WITH A RESISTIVITY POSSIBLY VERY DIFFERENT FROM THE REST
OF THE CONCRETE.

1.4 MAKING A RESISTIVITY MEASUREMENT

Adjust the probe spacing to that required by sliding the probes along the guide rails and connect
the probe to the RM using the cable provided.

Dial the Spacing control to that of the probe spacing.

Switch the Range switch of the RM to range 6, the 0 – 2MΩcm range and switch on the RM.

Remove the plastic covers from the probe tips and place the probes in contact with the surface of
the concrete and maintain a firm steady pressure downwards on the probes.

Observe the reading on the meter’s display and change the range to a lower full-scale value if
necessary.

In order to gain confidence with the meter and its readings, try reversing the probes through 180°
and placing them back in exactly the same position; the reading should be the same.

Lift the probes off the surface of the concrete and replace them in as nearly the same position as
possible. Do this as many times as you think it necessary in order to establish a degree of
confidence in the resulting reading.

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Flick the Function switch to the ‘I’ position and read the current flowing between the two outer
probes. If this is below 95% of the nominal value for the range (see Table) on ranges 2 or 4, switch
to range 3 or 5 respectively and read the resistivity value on the new range. It should be the same
as the reading on the lower range, within the tolerance of the meter’s accuracy. Alternatively, or
in addition, change the range upwards, from 1 to 2 or 4 to 5, or 5 to 6 and check that the resistivity
reading is the same as that obtained on the lower range, within the accuracy of the meter.

If the reading is unsteady, or drifting slowly, use the Function switch to measure the current
flowing, I, and/or the total ‘contact’ resistance, Rc/10, between the two current probes. If the
current is below 1/20th of its nominal full-scale value or if the indicated total ‘contact’ resistance is
greater than 20 times that indicated in the Table for the selected range, you have a contact
problem. Soak the probe tips in water for a few minutes and try again when they are saturated
with water.

NB: REMEMBER THAT THE CONTACTS BETWEEN PROBE AND CONCRETE RELY ON THE WOODEN
PROBE TIPS BEING SATURATED WITH WATER. REPLACE THE PLASTIC PROBE COVERS WHENEVER
THE PROBES ARE NOT IN USE, AND DIP THEM INTO A TROUGH OF WATER FREQUENTLY WHEN
IN CONTINUOUS USE.

RESISTIVITY MEASUREMENT PROBLEMS

It will not always be possible to obtain steady and repeatable resistivity readings. This is
particularly so if the concrete is very dry or with a resistivity approaching that of MΩcm coupled
with high contact resistances. This is an inherent problem with concrete resistivity measurements
and is most likely to be due to the probe/concrete interface contact.

When probe/concrete contact resistances become very high, there is always the possibility of
interference from mains borne ‘hum’ or other such sources. No such problems should occur with
total contact resistances below the maximum stated for range 6, i.e. 1.25MΩ.

Fortunately, concrete resistivities above 100kΩcm are of little significance in the assessment of
corrosion risk. They are more of academic interest than of real value.

Another problem arises from the fact that concrete is rarely homogenous. As a consequence of
this it is VERY IMPORTANT that you realize that the resistivity reading you obtain is not necessarily
representative of ALL the concrete within the sphere of influence of the probes. What you
measure is more correctly termed an ‘apparent’ resistivity.

The presence of rebar within the concrete can affect the resistivity reading, if it is within the
sphere of influence of the current field of the outer probes. Large pieces of aggregate will also
influence the results and care should be taken to avoid placing the probes down on any such
obvious pieces.

Concrete is porous and can contain a large amount of water. If the concrete has recently been
wetted, or is drying out after a period of saturation, there will effectively be layers of concrete
with different resistivity values. Determing the ‘true’ value of the concrete’s resistivity under
these conditions can be very difficult. For a better appreciation of what happens under such
conditions, read the N.J.M. Wilkins article.

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Concrete containing contaminants such as sodium chloride will generally have low values of
resistivity, even when fairly dry, but because such contaminants diffuse into the concrete there
will be layers of different resistivity values. The BJNDT article referred to in the introduction
quotes a formula for the proportion of current flowing through the concrete at a depth – on the
assumption that it is homogenous. Under such conditions, the current field is denser the nearer it
is to the surface. The top layers therefore have a greater influence upon the ‘apparent’ resistivity
measured. The N.J.M. Wilkins article also looks at the problem of layering effects and gives
examples of their influence upon the ‘apparent’ resistivity measured.

A dramatic example of the effect that layers of different resistivity material have upon the
‘apparent’ resistivity measured at the surface, and one which may be met in practice under certain
conditions, is as follows. When concrete has been exposed to CO2 for any length of time the
surface becomes carbonated. Such a surface can have a very high value of resistivity, which is
difficult to measure but suspected to be in excess of 1MΩcm. If the carbonated layer is only a few
millimeters thick, it appears to the Wenner probes like a high resistance interface between them
and the lower resistivity concrete beneath. Thus the ‘apparent’ resistivity measured will be
essentially that of the concrete below the carbonated layer. If, however, the carbonated surface is
sprayed with water of a lower resistivity than that being indicated on the meter – the probes
being maintained in contact with the concrete surface as this is done – it will be seen that the
‘apparent’ resistivity indicated by the meter increases dramatically, contrary to what you might
expect.

The explanation for this phenomenon is as follows: three layers of different resistivity material
have been created, with the lowest resistivity material on the top, the highest resistivity material
in the middle and the medium resistivity material at the bottom. The highest resistivity layer, in
the middle, acts like an insulator between the top and bottom layers, forcing most of the current
field to flow through the upper layer only. This completely changes the measurement geometry
from one of ‘infinite’ area and depth to one of ‘infinite’ area but very little depth. Such a thin layer
has an ‘apparent’ resistivity very much higher than its equivalent ‘infinite’ thickness sample when
measured using contacting Wenner probes. This can easily be demonstrated by measuring the
resistivity of a container full of water and comparing it with the value measured when only a depth
of a few millimeters of water is present. In both cases the Wenner probes used must only just
break the surface of the water when making the measurements and the container must be of
electrically insulating material.

In spite of all the problems there are in measuring the resistivity of reinforced concrete, there is
still great value to be had from doing so. The important thing is to be aware of all of the influences
that prevent a ‘true’ reading from being obtained. For sensible interpretation of the results, a
wealth of experience needs to be obtained by examining the structure being investigated under
varying conditions of the environment and any other influencing factor.

RM Concrete Resistivity Meter Operating Manual © CNS Farnell Limited 2008 All rights reserved . Page 7 of 16
USING THE RM MKII TO MEASURE RESISTANCE

The RM may also be used to measure resistances. There are four basic ranges covering from 0-
20MΩ, as mentioned earlier and shown in the Table in the Specification section. The
measurement is made by selecting the appropriate range and holding the Function switch in the
Rc/10 position. The value measured is ten times that shown on the display.

Further ranges are possible, from 0-200Ω up to 0-200kΩ, using the Resistivity measuring function
and by dialing 1.59cm on the Spacing control. The resistance measured is 1/10th of that shown on
the display. The main advantage of this technique is the gaining of the two lower ranges; the
remaining ranges being more simply achieved using the Rc/10 function. However, if resistances
were to be measured and logged, this method would be essential due to the centre-biased nature
of the function switch.

The value of making such resistance measurements using the RM is that the RM uses an ac
measuring technique to measure pure resistance only. Using such a technique overcomes
polarizing phenomena such as might occur when measuring the resistance of an electrolyte
between two electrodes. In this manner it can be used as a pH meter (measuring resistance rather
than conductivity), or to check the continuity between two rebars. The latter is particularly useful
when carrying out Potential surveys and it is necessary to establish that two rebars are
interconnected. Although a DVM on a low-ohm range can be used to simply establish continuity,
it will not be able to indicate the effective resistance between two unconnected rebars.

MAINTENANCE OF THE WENNER PROBE.

1.5 REPLACING THE WENNER PROBE TIPS.

The 3mm diameter wooden probe tips become worn and will need to be replaced from time to
time. The material used for the tips is RAMIN dowelling and a spare length is provided with your
kit.

Tips saturated with water swell and are not easy to remove from the stainless steel probes.
Therefore, the tip covers should be removed for at least 24-hours to allow the tips to dry out.
Having dried out, the tips should either fall out or be easily drawn out with a pair of small, pointed,
tweezers. If this is not possible, then it may be necessary to screw a very small screw into the tip
end, drawing the tip out by clasping the end of the screw with a small pair of pliers, and pulling on
the pliers. Failing these attempts, use a 2 or 2.5mm drill bit to drill into the tip end, taking care not
to damage the stainless steel probe. Then use the small pair of pointed tweezers to draw out the
remains of the wooden tip.

Push a length of the 3mm RAMIN dowelling into a probe and mark the end, allowing
approximately 1mm to 2mm of projection. Remove the length of dowelling and using a scalpel or
other sharp knife, cut the measured length off. Cut three more pieces of the same length and
push the new tips into each of the four probes.

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DO NOT BE TEMPTED TO BREAK OFF THE LENGTHS OF DOWELLING INSTEAD OF CUTTING THEM
OFF. THE RESULTING JAGGED END WILL WEAR QUICKLY, NECESSITATING EARLIER
REPLACEMENT.

Once all four new tips are in position, replace the tip covers, topping them up with water before
doing so.

THE PROBE CONTACT WITH THE CONCRETE SURFACE DEPENDS UPON THE STATE OF THE PROBE
TIPS, IT IS THEREFORE IMPORTANT TO MAINTAIN THEM IN GOOD CONDITION. ALWAYS
REPLACE THE TIP COVERS, FULL OF WATER, AFTER USE TO MAINTAIN THE TIPS IN A SATURATED
CONDITION.

1.6 EASING THE SPRUNG PROBES

The two centre probes are sprung to ensure that all four probes make good contact with the
concrete no matter what the surface irregularities. After some time they may become ‘sticky in
their mountings due to the possible ingress of dirt.

To remove them for cleaning, grip the probe tip end – not more than 10mm from the end – gently
with a pair of pliers and use a screwdriver to unscrew the screw from the probe. Once loose,
unscrew by hand. Remove the probe from its mounting, being careful not to lose the spring.

The probe can now be cleaned as necessary; the bore hole of the mounting also if required. Use a
solvent with a clean cloth. The probe length may be rubbed gently with a fine emery paper if
necessary, but do not over do it.

Once cleaned, the probes should be replaced, not forgetting the springs, in a similar manner to
which they were removed. Light machine oil may be used to lubricate them, but they are
probably better left ‘dry’ as oil tends to collect dirt.

BATTERY REPLACEMENT
The RM has been designed to be used with four ‘C’ size cells, either Manganese Alkaline – or other
1.5V cells – or Nickel-Cadmium rechargeable cells. Built in charging facilities for Ni-Cds are NOT
provided in order to avoid the mistake of attempting to re-charge the wrong type of cell.

If Ni-Cds are to be used, it is a good philosophy to have at least two sets of four ‘C’ cells. One set
should be in the RM, the other should be taken, fully charged, as a spare set for when the others
run out. Those in the RM should be used until exhausted. If removed and recharged before being
completely discharged, they will slowly lose their capacity. Operating from a battery voltage down
to 3.6V, the RM gets the most out of the battery supply.

REMOTE OPERATION OF THE RM MKII

The RM has been fitted with a REMOTE operation function specifically so that it can be used as
‘resistivity conditioning electronics’ in front of a voltage input to a logger. This is a particularly
useful facility if resistivity is to be measured over a period of time using probes that are ‘buried’ in
concrete.

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Some of the difficulties of measuring and interpreting concrete resistivities have been mentioned
in Section 3. It was suggested that considerable experience needs to be gained from taking
measurements under various environmental and other varying conditions. One way of obtaining
this experience is to ‘bury’ probes in the concrete structure being examined in one or two strategic
positions.

Using a data logger, the RM can be switched on five seconds before a measurement takes place.
The total ON time for such a logged measurement is of the order of seven seconds. Using
Manganese Alkaline batteries, with a continuous operating life of 34 hours in the RM, 24 readings
a day could be taken for nearly two years.

Details of connections to the REMOTE socket are given in the Specification for the RM. If you have
a logger which has closing switch contacts that operate 5 or more seconds before logging takes
place, then they should be connected to either pins 3 & 4 or pins 5 & 6 of the REMOTE socket.

The 0-10V analogue signal output from the RM can be taken from the ‘bnc’ socket on the front
panel or pins 1 (+ve o/p) and 2 (-ve o/p) of the REMOTE socket.

SPECIFICATION OF THE RM MKII

1.7 RESISTIVITY MEASUREMENTS.

The resistivity ranges of the Resistivity Meter are calibrated for surface measurements using a
standard Wenner, linear 4-probe array with equal spacing of ‘x’ cms between the probes. A
current is driven between the outer (‘current’) probes and a voltage is developed and measured
across the inner (‘voltage’) probes. Both current and voltage levels are measured and the
resultant value of V/I is determined using an analogue divider circuit. Reversing either the
‘current’ or the ‘voltage’ probes will produce a –ve sign for the reading, which is of no
significance and can be ignored, but see ‘Accuracy’ below.

Ranges: See Table

Current Drive: Alternating with a flat topped, trapezoidal waveform at a

frequency of about 13Hz. The pk-pk level is nominally
constant (see Table) but with a nominal voltage limit of 25V
pk-pk.

Accuracy: The basic accuracy is ±2% of reading, ±3 digits, for current

drives down to 1/20th of the nominal ‘constant’ value
assuming equal contact resistances on the ‘current probes.

If high and unequal contact resistances exist on the current

probes, additional errors can be generated which may
effectively add, or subtract, an offset value to the reading.
The RM has been designed to reduce these errors to a
minimum, but is dependent upon the quality of one of its
‘chips’ to do so successfully. The magnitude of the error is

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 dependent upon the setting of the Spacing control, ‘x’ in cm
and the ratio, ‘r’, of the ‘constant’ current value for the
range, Iċ, to the actual current flowing, Ia, ‘r’ being equal to
Iċ/Ia. For the various ranges, the ‘worst case’ additional
errors are:

Ranges 1,3 & 5: ±1 digit/x/r

Ranges 2,4 & 6: ±0.1 digits/x/r

Typically, such errors will be much smaller than the worst

case values and can be ignored.

Probe Spacing: Adjustable between 0-10cm using a ten-turn dial (1cm/turn).

To prevent overloading of the circuitry, THE CONTROL
MUST NOT BE SET BELOW 1.59cm.

1.8 RESISTANCE MEASUREMENTS

AC resistance measurements can be made between the outer ‘current’ probes that are true
resistance measurements, NOT impedance. The full scale reading, FSR, values are as shown in the
Table and are TEN times the displayed values on the Digital Panel Meter.

Ranges: See Table

Accuracy: ±2% of reading, ±1 digit.

Two additional ranges of Resistance measurements can be made using a four-probe technique (i.e.
outer ‘current’ probe connections connected to the nearest inner ‘voltage’ probe connections)
and the Resistivity ranges and by setting the Spacing control to 1.59cm.

Ranges: 1/10th of the selected Resistivity Range, in kΩ

NOT kΩcm. This gives ranges of 0-200Ω and 0-2kΩ
using the two lower ranges of Resistivity. (NB The
other Resistivity ranges can be used to measure
Resistance in this manner if so desired.)

1.9 CURRENT MEASUREMENTS

The actual current flowing between the outer ‘current’ probes can be measured in order to
determine if it has fallen below its nominal ‘constant’ value. The nominal ‘constant’ values for
each range are between +0% and -5% of the values shown in the Table.

Accuracy ±2% of reading, ±2 digits

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Once the current, of a particular range, has fallen below its ‘constant’ value and the current drive
is voltage limited, the resistance between the ‘current’ probes can be estimated from the formula:

R=25V/I

(where I is the current measured and 25V, +5% is the nominal value of the current drive).

1.10 GENERAL SPECIFICATION.

Display: 0-1999. the decimal points are automatically selected by the

Range and Function switches but the Resistivity ranges are only
shown as ‘kΩ’ NOT ‘kΩcm’, which is actually the case. This
relates to the only commercially available display which cannot
indicate kΩcm even though that is what is actually measured.

An over-range indication is given by blanking off the last three

digits.

A low-battery indication is given when the supply falls below

3.6V

Range Switch:
Function Switch:
Analogue Output:
Remote Function:
Probe Socket:
Six-position switch to select ranges 1 to 6 (see table for details).
Three position toggle switch, centre biased to Resistivity
Measurements – the Current or Resistance (R/10) functions may
be temporarily selected by switching to the appropriate function
as indicated.
0-10V, full scale, representing the FSR of the selected range and
function. The O/P is available via a ‘BNC’ socket on the front
panel or via pins 1 (sig) & 2 (gnd) of the remote socket.
The Resistivity Meter can be remotely switched ON and OFF by
positive (3.5-30V) or negative (0-1.5V) logic signals on pins 4 or 5,
respectively, with respect to pin 6 (gnd), of the Remote Socket.
A ‘closing’ switch contact (between pins 3 & 4, or pins 5 & 6 of
the Remote Socket) may alternatively be used.
6-pin panel mounted for connection to the Wenner probe array.
Connections:-
Pin Connection
1 V1 (screen)
2 Probe V1
3 Probe V2
4 V2 (screen)
5 Probe I1
6 Probe I2

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 Remote Socket: 6-pin back panel mounted for connection to an external power
supply, remote ON/OFF signals and to provide an alternative
analogue output. Connections:-
Pin Connection
1 +ve Sig. o/p
2 -ve Sig. o/p (gnd)
3 +v power supply i/p
4 +ve logic i/p
5 -ve logic i/p
6 -V power supply i/p & logic gnd

Battery Supplies: 4 x 1.5V ‘C’ type Manganese-Alkaline cells, or

4 x 1.25V ‘C’ type Nickel-Cadmium Rechargeable cells an external
voltage of 5/6V may be applied through pins 3 (+ve) & 6 (-ve) of
the Remote socket.
Battery Life: Approx. 34hrs using Duracell type cells.

TABLE

RANGE FULL SCALE READING MAX. CONTACT RESISTANCE

P R/10 I
1 2kΩcm 20kΩ 2mA 12.5kΩ
2 20kΩcm 200kΩ 2mA 12.5kΩ
3 20kΩcm 200kΩ 200µA 125kΩ
4 200kΩcm 2MΩ 200µA 125kΩ
5 200kΩcm 2MΩ 20µA 1.25MΩ
6 2MΩcm 20MΩ 20µA 1.25MΩ

The maximum contact resistance quoted for each range is the nominal total contact resistance
that can be tolerated between both current probes without reducing the value of the constant
current drive. In practice, these may be increased by up to 20 times with some possible reduction
in accuracy under certain conditions, see specification of resistivity measurements, The exception
to this rule is on ranges 5 & 6 where contact resistances in excess of 1.25MΩ may produce erratic
readings due to ‘hum’ pick-up and to stray capacitive effects associated with the probe/concrete
interface.

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THE CNS FARNELL RESISTIVITY METER MKII (RM MKII)

The CNS Farnell Resistivity Meter was developed by engineers from Taylor Woodrow who had
extensive experience in the measurement of concrete resistivity and the problems associated with
such measurements. It was designed specifically to measure the resistivity of concrete. Using a
standard Wenner linear 4-probe array, a flat-topped ac wave form for the current source and
sophisticated electronic circuitry, a true measure of the DC component (that is, resistance, NOT
impedance) of resistivity is measured. The resulting measurement is not frequency dependent.

There are four basic ranges of full-scale resistivity measurement possible: 0 – 2kΩcm, 0 – 20kΩcm;
0 – 200kΩcm and 0 – 2MΩcm. Two additional ranges allow the ranges of 0 – 20kΩcm and 0 –
200kΩcm to be selected with a choice of ‘constant’ current flowing between the two outer probes.
The actual full-scale reading is 1999 and an over-range indication is given for reading greater than
1999. A ten turn dial (the SPACING control) allows the probe spacing to be entered resulting in a
true measurement of resistivity in Ωcm. The range of the Spacing control is 0 – 10cm (that is,
1cm/turn), but for practical reasons the control should not be set to less than 1.59cm.

In addition to resistivity ranges, the RM has four basic ranges of AC resistance measurement
(again, resistance NOT impedance) as measured between the two current probes, selected by a
FUNCTION switch. They are: 0 – 20kΩ; 0 – 200kΩ; 0 – 2MΩ and 0 – 20MΩ. By setting the SPACING
control to 1.59cm, and using a four probe technique, additional ac resistance measurements in the
range of 0 - 200Ω and 0 – 2KΩ may be made using the two lower resistivity ranges.

One of the major problems with making concrete resistivity measurements is that of high contact
resistances between the probes and the concrete. There are many ways in which these contact
resistances may be reduced, but they are difficult to eliminate altogether. If high contact
resistances exist there is no reason to suppose that they are identical on each probe. High, and
substantially different, contact resistances on each of the probes can cause serious errors in the
measurement of resistivity if instruments with sine-wave current sources are used. The CNS
Farnell RM uses a flat-topped current waveform and a patented technique to overcome this
problem and will give accurate measurements in the presence of large and different probe contact
resistances. This is especially useful if ‘buried’ probes in concrete are used.

On each of the resistivity ranges the current drive to the current probes is limited to a maximum
‘constant’ value. The voltage drive to the current probe is also limited, to 25V pk-pk, so that in the
event of high contact resistances between the current probes and the concrete, the current will
reduce below its ‘constant’ value. The measured value of resistivity is proportional to the voltage
measured on the voltage probes divided by the current flowing through the current probes: both
voltage and current are measured and an analogue divider circuit is used to compute the resulting
division. Thus, even when the current falls below its ‘constant’ value, an accurate measure of the
resistivity is possible. However, the measurement becomes less accurate, and more variable, as
the current levels down to 1/20th of the ‘constant’ value providing readings are stable.

The current flowing between the two current probes is only likely to reduce below its ‘constant’
value in the presence of high contact resistances on the current probes. The FUNCTION switch
may be used to provide an indication of the current flowing between the two current probes, so

RM Concrete Resistivity Meter Operating Manual © CNS Farnell Limited 2008 All rights reserved . Page 14 of 16
that an operator may know when the current of a particular range has fallen below its ‘constant’
value and switch to the alternative range (if available) using a lower current. This facility is
available for the two centre ranges of resistivity, 0-20kΩcm and 0-200kΩcm but for greatest
accuracy should only be used when the current level has fallen below 1/10th of the ‘constant’
value on the higher current range.

The FUNCTION switch may also be used to provide a direct indication of the total resistance
between the two current probes. Some of the total resistance indicated will be due to the
effective resistance of the concrete between the two current probes, but by far the larger
proportion is likely to be due to the current–probe contact resistances. The function Rc/10
therefore provides an indication of the total contact resistance between the two current-
probe/concrete interfaces.

The Table in the specification section shows the six ranges of the RM, the full-scale measurements
of resistivity, resistance and current possible on each range, and the highest total resistance –
between the two current probes – possible before the current falls below its ‘constant’ value.
Ranges 2 & 3 and 4 & 5 have the same full-scale reading, FSR, of Resistivity and Resistance but
with different measuring current levels. The Maximum Contact resistance shown for each range is
the nominal, maximum value of resistance that can be tolerated between the current probes
before the current drive to the current probes is reduced below its nominal ‘constant’ level as
shown in the ‘I’ column. Total resistances twenty times the indicated maximum values in the
above table can be tolerated before the accuracy of the RM is reduced below its stated value.

Range selection resistors of ±1% tolerance are used in the RM, and the RM is therefore accurate
to within ±2%, ±3 digits, of this tolerance when measuring resistance. The accuracy of resistivity
measurements should be as good as those for resistance. However, when making concrete
resistivity measurements, it must be remembered that what is measured is an ‘apparent’
resistivity. The results depend on the assumption that the concrete is of ‘infinite; surface area and
depth, and homogenous: concrete is rarely that! It is essential to have a good appreciation of the
possible sources of error in making concrete resistivity measurements if sensible interpretation of
the results is to be achieved.

The RM is battery powered and runs from four type ‘C’ cells. These may be either standard or
Manganese-Alkaline cells of 1.5V, or Ni-Cd cells of 1.25V. No charging facilities for Ni-Cds is
provided within the RM. A separate charger is included as part of the kit. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO
RECHARGE STANDARD MANGANESE-ALKALINE CELLS DUE TO A RISK OF EXPLOSION. Standard
1.5V or Ni-Cd cells will provide approximately 10 hours operating time, whilst Duracell type will
provide up to 34 hours operating time. A ‘low-battery’ indication is given on the display of the RM
when the cells are exhausted. The accuracy of the RM is maintained over the whole range of
battery voltages.

An additional feature of the RM is its 0 – 10V analogue output, representing the measured
function of the selected range. Also provided is a remote ON/OFF facility for the RM so that,
together with its analogue output, it may be used with a data logger for intermittent monitoring of
concrete resistivity on a long-term basis. The remote ON/OFF function (situated on the back-
panel) may be operated by means of positive or negative logic signals (in the range 0 – 30V) or a

RM Concrete Resistivity Meter Operating Manual © CNS Farnell Limited 2008 All rights reserved . Page 15 of 16
closing relay contact. The remote control input socket has additional pins to allow the RM to be
operated from an external power source, 5/6v @ 200mA being required.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Measurement of the electrical resistivity of reinforced concrete structures for the assessment of
corrosion risk, by S.G.Millard, J.A.Harrison & A.J.Edwards. Brit. J. Nondestructive Testing, 1989

Reinforced Concrete Resistivity Measurement. Proceedings Institute of Civil Engineers, Part 2,

1991, 91, Mar. 71-88, Paper 9674.

Practical Measurement of Concrete Resistivity, by S.G.Millard, J.A.Harrison & K.R. Gowers, Vol 33,
No 2, 1991. 59-63

Resistivity measurements in concrete, by A.J.Ewins. British Journal of Non-Destructive Testing,

Volume 33, No. 2, March 1990.

Book - Resistivity of concrete, by N.J.M.Wilkins. UKAEA Atomic Energy Research Establishment,

Materials Development Division, AERE Harwell, January 1982, ref. AERE-M - 3232.

Copies of the first four items in this bibliography are available free of charge from CNS Farnell, on
request.

EU DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

We confirm that this equipment conforms to the following standards or directives:

Electromagnetic Compatibility 89/336/EEC

As amended by 91/263/EEC
92/31/EEC
93/68/EEC
Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC
Proc [nstll Civ. Fnyrs, Part 2, 1991,91, Mar., 71-88
P P R 9674 STRUCTURAL AN B ILDING BOARD
Reinforce concrete resistivity measurement
techniques

RM Concrete Resistivity Meter Operating Manual © CNS Farnell Limited 2008 All rights reserved . Page 16 of 16