ASTM E 1486 : 1998 : R2004

1.1 This test method covers data collection and analysis procedures to determine surface flatness and levelness by calculating waviness indices for survey lines and surfaces, elevation differences of defined wheel paths, and levelness indices using the inch-pound system of units.

This test method is the companion to SI Test Method E 1486M; therefore, no SI equivalents are shown in this test method.

This test method was not developed for, and does not apply to, clay or concrete paver units.

1.1.1 The purpose of this test method is to provide the user with floor tolerance estimates as follows:

Local survey line waviness and overall surface waviness indices for floors based on deviations from the midpoints of imaginary chords as they are moved along a floor elevation profile survey line. End points of the chords are always in contact with the surface. The imaginary chords cut through any points in the concrete surface higher than the chords.

Defined wheel path criteria based on transverse and longitudinal elevation differences, change in elevation difference, and root mean square (RMS) elevation difference.

Levelness criteria for surfaces characterized by either of the following methods: the conformance of elevation data to the test section elevation data mean or the conformance of the RMS slope of each survey line to a specified slope for each survey line.

1.1.2 The averages used throughout these calculations are RMS (that is, the quadratic means). This test method gives equal importance to humps and dips, measured up (+) and down (), respectively, from the imaginary chords.

1.1.3 is a commentary on this test method. provides a computer program for waviness index calculations based on this test method.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.