Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
(OP)
We are currently building a number of beams that are then obviously proof load tested.
My boss insists on having the lug welds UT (Ultrasonic Tested) prior to proof load test, then MPI (Magnetic Particle Tested) after proof load test.
Other than as a health and safety concern I do not see the point of the test prior to proof load testing, and no-one is allowed near the beams whilst under test anyway.
AS (Australian Standard)4991 Lifting Devices mentions nothing, nor does AS1554 Structural Steel Welding.
Can anyone offer some insight, opinion?
Regards.






RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
1. The Boss is always right.
2. When The Boss is not right, see Rule 1.
Seriously, can you conjecture some flaws that would not be detected by one proof load test? The Boss probably has.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
Second, if you are going to test before and after, use the same test protocol. Using two different test methods with two different purposes might only serve to confuse you by their results.
Based on your handle, is there any chance that these beams will see repetitive loading? If so, the single proof test will show little other than a capability to hold the load once (though I assume you will proof test to some multiple of the design load).
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
Guidelines to EC. We have a lot of experience welding for offshore structures. Only qualified welders are selected for welding on lifting equipment.
Partial welds and fillet welds are only checked visual and MPI. Full pen welds visual, MPI and UT.
The NDT testing is performed before test load the lifting equipment and after the testing. You want to find out if the test load, which is higher then the SWL, has some influence on your welds.
Additional we check the dimensions before the test and after. Looking for any plastic deformation. Always expect some force which you did not have taken into account. Better safe then sorry. European goverment rules only say it has to be safe. Specs are your guidelines to help you.
RE: Weld tests on Lifting/Spreader Beams.
The current beam we are fabricating has 6 mm fillet welds specified.
Thank you all for your insight.
I take it there is no definitive answer to this in any rules, codes etc?
Regards.