Proof Load Testing
Proof load testing of equipment is performed to establish fitness for use. Proof load testing is generally performed prior to initial use, periodically to confirm on-going fitness for use, and also following repairs to critical load carrying components.
In addition to cranes, equipment and machines which are typically proof load tested include lift beams, spreader beams, custom lift frames, slings, custom sling configurations, hoisting frames, derricks, pad-eyes, winch foundations, and other load bearing structures. Hydro-Wates® can provide certification of proof load test results to nationally and internationally recognized standards specified by API, OSHA, ASME, NSTE, IMO and others. We have experience in testing vessels, bulk carriers, cruise ships, offshore service vessels, break-bulk, project cargo, and various others.
Generally proof load testing is performed at loads in the range of 10% to 25% over the normal working load limit (WLL) of the device being tested. However, in some cases the test load is greater and should always be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended practice.
Requirements From OSHA
Proof load testing is required on all overhead cranes. An initial inspection on new equipment is mandatory followed by periodic maintenance inspections according to OSHA. A "drop test" is required as part of the certification because it can reveal functional errors and lower the risk of a serious accident involving overhead cranes and hoists.
In addition, use of our equipment allows customers to meet the regulatory load testing requirements of OSHA, IMO and SOLAS.
Crane Testing
Cranes being used in any industry can be load tested using water bags. Hydro-Wates offers proof-load testing services to companies across the United States and the world.
View Crane Testing OptionsDeflection Measurement
Deflection Measurements Services, provided by Hydro-Wates®, offers comprehensive solutions for accurately measuring and assessing deflection in various structural applications where precision is paramount for safety and operational efficiency. Our industrial quality equipment offers high precision, to 0.1mm accuracy, data logging capability, and can temporarily be affixed to any ferrous surface.
View Deflection Measurement OptionsDerrick Load Testing
The use of water bags for load testing offshore and onshore derricks is recognized as a safe, effective testing technique.
View Derrick Load Testing OptionsLifeboat Davit & Gangway Testing
Hydro-Wates maintains an extensive inventory of water bags, load cells, water meters and ancillary equipment which can be used to proof load test lifeboat davits and personnel gangways in compliance with SOLAS requirements.
View Lifeboat Davit & Gangway Testing OptionsPad Eye Testing
Hydro-Wates® offers pad eye testing services up to 100 tons using our own in-house pad eye testing machines and personnel.
View Pad Eye Testing OptionsProof Load Testing Services
Proof load testing of equipment is performed to establish fitness for use. Proof load testing is generally performed prior to initial use, periodically to confirm on-going fitness for use, and also following repairs to critical load carrying components
View Proof Load Testing Services OptionsSpreader Beam Testing
Spreader beams of all types can be proof load tested using water bags. Hydro-Wates has extensive experience load testing the following types of spreader beams.
View Spreader Beam Testing OptionsSteel Weight Testing
Hydro-Wates® provides crane, hoist and beam proof load testing services using steel test weights in applications where low headroom, restricted access or limited test area prevent the use of water test weights.
View Steel Weight Testing OptionsStructural Load Testing
Hydro-Wates has the capability to design, engineer and fabricate custom test fixtures and water bag rigging arrangements to enable proof load testing of irregularly shaped products, fixtures or structures.
View Structural Load Testing OptionsLet us help you