Inspection Techniques

The main method of inspection for lifting equipment is a good visual inspection by competent inspectors which allows the detection of the vast majority of problems. Particular attention is paid to welds which tend to crack

 

Typical failures sought :

• Cracking
• Deformations
• Leaks
• Verdigris
• Missing or modified elements

 

Other inspection items :

• Lifting tests
• Operational tests, and limiters
• Presence and condition of security elements

 

Relevant team certifications :

• Welding inspector CSA W178.2, level 1,2 or 3
• Elevating platform operator
• Engineer (OIQ, NAPEG)

The magnetic particle non-destructive testing method is very efficient and simple to perform. This method makes it possible to detect emerging surface cracks in ferromagnetic materials. It is particularly used for the inspection of welds of load-bearing components and lifting hooks.

 

Benefits :

• Fast and effective
• Excellent probability of detection
• Applicable on a wide variety of geometries

 

To consider :

• Requires a clean (grease-free) and dry surface
• Limited effectiveness through painting

 

Certification of inspectors :

• CGSB, Magnetic particle, level 2

The ultrasonic non-destructive testing technique enables the detection of defects in materials, not just on the surface. It is particularly used for the inspection of axles and pins, as well as for plate thickness measurement.

 

Applications :

• Axles and pins inspection
• Plate thickness measurements
• Corrosion detection and measurement (below the surface)
• Evaluate the depth of a crack

 

To consider:

• Requires accessible and uniform contact surface
• Possible to inspect through the paint if it is well adhered and uniform

 

Certification of inspectors :

• CGSB, Ultrasound levels 1 or 2

The liquid penetrant non-destructive testing technique is simple to perform, but requires a few successive steps. This method makes it possible to detect cracks or other defects opening on the surface, and is generally used for non-ferromagnetic materials, such as aluminum or stainless steels.

 

Benefits :

• Simple execution
• Excellent probability of detection
• Applicable on a wide variety of geometries

 

To consider :

• Requires a very clean, paint-free surface
• The inspected surface should be rather smooth, difficult to apply on porous surfaces
• A more "messy" process

 

Certification of inspectors :

• CGSB, PT level 2

We master various 3D modeling technologies that allow us to obtain precise profiles of corrosion or deformation, for small sections, or large equipment. These technologies can also be used for the reverse engineering of a part that cannot be found, or to model an equipment on which modifications are planned.

 

Applications :

• Characterization of areas of corrosion or deformation
• Extensive damage impact assessment using finite element analysis
• Monitoring of damage development over time
• Reverse engineering of components

 

To consider :

• More expensive techniques, it is necessary to assess their relevance