Proof load testing usually involves applying only controlled pressure for a certain period of time to a load-bearing object. The tests verify that the machine or heavy equipment has passed all the on site checks. It also verifies it can safely lift the specified load without causing any material damage to the machine or man. This helps prevent unexpected failures that may be caused by weak connections, excessive or abnormal loads, or excessive speeds.
There are many reasons why companies perform this kind of inspection and test on their machines and equipment. One is to make sure that hydraulic cylinder pressures are within specification limits. Another is to make certain that machine and/or equipment performance and functionality are within the manufacturers specifications. And the last is to make certain the operation and efficiency of the machine is not affected due to environmental conditions.
The two types of test conducted during a proof load inspection are wet and dry methods. In the wet method, test beams are fired at a particular load bearing object in the vertical and horizontal directions. These beams are usually located above the ground and/or water. The reason behind this type of inspection is to determine the maximum load that can be supported by the equipment or machine.
The dry method of conducting a proof load inspection typically involves shooting a bolt that is horizontally fired into the load-bearing surfaces. The maximum pressure produced during this process is measured and recorded. Based on the measurement results, the strength rating of the machine or equipment is calculated. Usually, a maximum limit of 600 pounds is used for any individual load.
The important thing to note about the wet method of proof load testing is that the test results are not reliable. There are a variety of factors that could potentially skew or deform the test results. First, the test results can be influenced by the surroundings conditions. As the name implies, this type of inspection is often conducted outdoors. A lot of disturbances can occur during the course of the test, which could affect the test results.
Meanwhile, most equipment manufacturers already conduct standard proof loading and load testing. These manufacturers usually utilize a standard or approved design in their machines. Machines that utilize the approved designs are more likely to produce accurate results than those that don’t. It is also more advantageous to use equipment that is designed to adhere to approved standards set by international and regional organizations.
Finally, it is imperative that the lifting equipment that you purchase is adequately tested. This is because there are a lot of different factors that could affect the operation of your lifting equipment. When purchasing lifting equipment, it is important to look for machines that have passed the highest standards available. Look for proof load tests that have been conducted on these types of machines so you won’t waste your money on buying ineffective machines.
These are some of the important things to keep in mind when looking into the application of the test known as a proof load test. This type of inspection is very beneficial because it allows companies to identify weak areas of their machines and ensures that they are meeting the highest standards set by international and regional organizations. This is why most heavy lifting equipment today is constantly subjected to a series of tests conducted by professionals. By doing so, businesses will be able to conduct quality control inspections.
Another benefit of proof load testing is that it allows the machine operators to get more use out of their equipment. Machines that regularly undergo this inspection will be able to perform at their maximum capacity. In the long run, this could lead to more productivity in the workplace and allow employers to get more out of their investment in heavy lifting equipment. When conducting this type of inspection, it is also important to make sure that you are dealing with trained professionals. This can ensure that the test is properly completed and that you will get a good review of the machines once the inspection is complete.
As previously mentioned, proof load testing is beneficial because it allows you to identify weak spots on your equipment. However, there are instances where you need to conduct inspections even when you have already found out what a specific machine is capable of. For example, it could be that your company owns a fleet of industrial cranes that are all over the place. When the weather gets rough and these heavy machinery tend to be unused, they can easily breakdown. With the help of a qualified professional, you can immediately identify which ones need repairs and which ones can simply be replaced by another manufacturer.
One last benefit of proof load testing is that it may even provide you with some peace of mind. When you identify weak areas of your lifting equipment, it is often likely that other parts on the machine are performing well. In many instances, a faulty lift is causing the equipment to break down in the workplace. However, with a trained technician on hand, you can simply request that the lift be inspected by someone who knows how to identify problematic equipment. By allowing technicians to inspect the various lifting accessories on your site on a regular basis, you will ensure that your workplace remains safe and clean, allowing you to focus on the tasks that need to be completed instead of being distracted by a malfunctioning piece of equipment.