Major Revision of Windsor® Probe ASTM Standard Specification



The Windsor® Probe Test System for determining concrete compressive strength has had majors changes to the ASTM standard specification covering use and utility. This standard now includes details of the type of probe used as well as addressing safety concerns.


Chicago Illinois, February 25th, 2019 - James Instruments Inc. the worldwide leading manufacturer of non-destructive test equipment for concrete and other construction materials and coarse grained materials, is pleased to announce that the ASTM C-803 has had major positive revisions. ASTM International committee C09 on concrete and concrete aggregates under the recommendation of sub-committee 64 non-destructive and in-place testing has specified new safety features and direct specifications of the probe used. The system has been used safely and effectively since the 1960’s and there have only been minor revisions made to the standard. However, ,

hese major revisions have had no effect on the accuracy and reliability of the test system. In fact, they have improved the systems safety and accuracy.


The clarification of the probe design is one of the features of the revision. Drawings are included which detail not only size and shape, but also tolerance values of the probes. These clarifications encompass the detailed knowledge that has been amassed from use of the test system for the last fifty years. Thereby assuring the end user that a system made to this standard will be reliable and accurate.


Safety features have also been incorporated into the standard. These are important as the amount of force used to drive a probe into concrete to test it is hazardous. These features include a larger single probe firing template than was previously part of the system to protect the user from debris. It also includes a provision stopping the probe from completely leaving the system without disassembly.This makes the entire operation intrinsically safer, even if there is a failure in the material being tested.

The Windso® HP Probe™ system rapidly and accurately determines the concrete compressive strength of a structure by driving a probe into the concrete with a known amount of force. Improved and enhanced over forty years, this modern system is capable of measuring concrete with a maximum compressive strength of 17,000 PSI (110 MPA). It has been ruggedized for use in the construction environment, yet refined to provide the user with a simpler system to operate. An electronic measuring unit has been added to help ensure proper test results which can be recorded for later review or uploading to a personal computer.


The Windsor® Probe™ System™ features:


  • Electronic measuring system enhances accuracy and efficiency

  • Measurement to 17000 psi (110 MPa)

  • Memory for data storage and uploading to PC

  • Safety: no accidental discharge and no recoil

  • Fast and economical use

  • Determination of the developing strength of concrete; improves safety, ensures quality and reduces -missing word here-

  • Monitor the strength for rehabilitation as concrete ages

  • Conform to ASTM C-803 and other official tests


The Windsor® Probe- Test System has been certified to be in compliance with EU Directive 2006/42/EC. This certification was made by Safenet Limited of the United Kingdom. Safenet is a European Notified Body. The Windsor® Probes corresponds to ASTM Standard C-803, ACI International reports 228.1R-03 and ACI 228.2R13, and British Standards Institute 1881 Part 207.


“At James, interesting, safe and reliable operation of our equipment is always our primary concern. We are very pleased that the ASTM committee has enacted our recommendations to the standard”, says Michael Hoag President of James Instruments Inc.


Windsor® Probe Driver Unit and Single Probe Template



Silver Probes


James® Instruments Inc. is the leading manufacturer of non-destructive test equipment for construction materials, specifically concrete, ceramic, wood, masonry, mortar, gypsum and other coarse grained materials. We supply the instruments that: measure strength, both compressive and tensile, locate rebar and other objects in concrete and masonry, determine density and analyze materials ultrasonically, analyze corrosion and, finally, determine moisture in concrete and other construction materials. And more. James Instruments -- rugged, quality equipment for field use -- backed by factory service and an ongoing program of research and development.


ASTM International has over 12,000 ASTM standards operating globally. Defined and set by us, they improve the lives of millions every day. Combined with their innovative business services, they enhance performance and help everyone have confidence in the things they buy and use.

For more information about this topic, please contact Michael Hoag by calling +1773.463.6565, or e-mail Michael at [email protected] or visit the website http://www.ndtjames.com or http://espanol.ndtjames.com.