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Testing to the next level
The dynamic testing device has the ability to constantly tension the lifting equipment, with a maximum of 5mT and at a maximum speed of 5m/min.
LIFTAL AND COMPAGNIE MECO INTRODUCE DYNAMIC TESTING DEVICE FOR MOTOR-DRIVEN HOISTS AND WINCHES.
FOLLOWING THE SUCCESSFUL STATIC TEST DEVICE THAT WAS GRANTED THE 2017’S EDF INNOVATION AWARD, AND INITIATED BY CUSTOMERS DEMAND FOR A UNIT THAT WOULD considerably reduce the economic and ecological footprint of testing, Liftal and Compagnie MECO joined forces to come up with a smart solution.
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIFTAL.
In the past, Liftal has realised many innovative testing solutions. Fixed weights, hydraulics, waterbags, testing pontoons; a solution is always within reach, for tests from 10kg up to 1,000t. Now, together with Compagnie MECO, the company developed a testing device that simulates the dynamic testing of cranes and winches, without using testing loads. Instead of this, the companies opted for a technical solution inspired on the constant tension systems that are widely used in the offshore industry. Together with engineering company Draftec, an innovative device was constructed.
More tests per day “One of our customers,” Hans Hirdes, Managing Director of Liftal, explains, “wanted to take their annual testing of cranes and winches to the next level. First of all, they wanted safer testing, using smaller loads and a compact tool. Testing should also become more economical by realising more tests per day. Finally, reduction in size and weight of the testing device would also reduce the environmental impact.” The new tension measurement tool is a portable device, consisting of four components. These components, all weighing no more than 25kg, are coupled each time a lifting device requires testing. Every component is equipped with handles for easy carrying. “A complete testing programme can be executed with this device, from static to dynamic testing, as well as data logging the results for further analysis,” Mr Hirdes continues. “Our tool has the ability to constantly tension the lifting equipment, with a maximum of 5mT and at a maximum speed of 5m/min. It can thus be used for most available cranes and winches.”
How it works For the annual dynamic testing of a crane, a load usually needs to be lifted in steps, for example at 50%, 80%, 100%, and 110%. When using fixed loads, each step requires the set-up of the test load, using for example a
Fixed weights, hydraulics, waterbags, testing pontoons; with Liftal, a solution is always within reach, for tests from 10kg up to 1,000t.
forklift and riggers “The traditional way of dynamic testing is very time consuming,” Mr Hirdes says. “In our new solution, a cylinder is secured to a fixed eye on the floor or even on a forklift, as long as it has at least the weight of the test load. On the other side, the cylinder is attached to the lifting device. Upon setting a number of parameters such as the crane’s working load, one of the pre-programmed tests can be chosen. Once the system is pressurised, the cylinder is activated, hereby realising the desired test loads. While testing, it is possible to lift and release, so the gearbox and brake of the crane are also burdened.” The test unit was unanimously chosen in September by a professional local EDF jury as the most innovative entry amongst fifteen contenders. The national contest was cancelled due to COVID-19. The dynamic testing device is now available for commercial use.
0.5-5.0 mT of load at maximum 5m/min. Saves transport costs and reduces CO2 emission. Safer in use than solid weights. High accuracy. Easy and quick to install: more tests per day. Only needs one anchorage point. Data logging for analysis. The maximum cylinder stroke is 500mm. The accuracy of the load measurement pin is < 0.5% (hysteresis is approximately 0.5% of the full scale, repetitive (hysteresis is approximately 0.5% of the full scale, repetitive accuracy approx. 0.5%). accuracy approx. 0.5%). The hysteresis of the constant tension control in between The hysteresis of the constant tension control in between dynamic pulling and releasing is < 3% of the setpoint. dynamic pulling and releasing is < 3% of the setpoint. Maximum speed 8m/min up and down. Maximum speed 8m/min up and down.
i. liftal.com liftal.com
The new tension measurement tool is a portable device, consisting of four components.
