Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) of Lifting Equipment
Lifting equipment must be inspected and certified at least once a year. In addition to proof load testing, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is an effective method for assessing its condition. As part of this service, we inspect lifting equipment components for hairline cracks and other defects that are not visible to the naked eye, including flaws located just beneath the steel surface.
We do this by applying a contrast medium to the material and magnetizing it using a solution containing iron particles. This process makes otherwise invisible cracks clearly visible. The purpose of Non-Destructive Testing is to prevent accidents. Even a small crack can pose a significant risk when equipment is subjected to load. By detecting defects at an early stage, NDT helps ensure the continued safety and reliability of lifting equipment.
NDT of Steel Wire Ropes
Steel wire ropes also require regular inspection to assess their condition and remaining service life. Even on the same installation and under identical operating conditions, one wire rope may last only a few weeks, while another may remain in service for one or even two years.
One effective inspection method is Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). During this process, a sensor clamp is placed around the wire rope, allowing us to examine its internal condition and detect signs of wear, corrosion, or broken wires.
Unlike destructive testing, which damages the object being tested, NDT can be carried out on the entire wire rope or on specific sections without affecting its integrity or usability.
In addition to inspection services, Mennens also provides expert advice on wire rope construction and selection.
Request an NDT Inspection from Mennens
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Watch the Mennens Video Podcast
Further Investigation: NDT, Laboratory Analysis and Expert Advice
Working safely is essential when using lifting and hoisting equipment. During a visual inspection, lifting equipment is checked for its condition and any visible defects.
In many cases, an annual inspection is a legal requirement. Mennens performs all mandatory inspections and certifications of lifting equipment, with safety as the highest priority.
In this episode, Michel de Vos speaks with Frits van Boetzelaer, Steel Wire Rope Product Specialist, about Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), laboratory analysis, and the importance of expert advice in ensuring the safety and reliability of lifting equipment.
Summary of the Podcast: Further Investigation – NDT, Laboratory Analysis and Expert Advice
There are several inspection and testing methods available for steel wire ropes to extend service life and prevent failures. In addition to visual inspections, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) can be used to assess the internal condition of a wire rope. During an NDT inspection, a magnetic sensor is placed around the rope to detect internal wear, corrosion, and broken wires. In some cases, this inspection can even be performed remotely. However, periodic visual inspections remain essential and should always complement NDT.
Following inspection, a wire rope can be sent to Mennens' laboratory in Dongen for further analysis. This enables specialists to examine the rope's internal condition in greater detail and determine whether an alternative rope construction may be more suitable for the application. Detailed reports and expert recommendations help customers make informed decisions about the maintenance and optimisation of their installations.
Maximising the service life of steel wire ropes is crucial for preventing unplanned downtime and ensuring operational continuity. For this reason, NDT technology is particularly valuable for critical installations that operate around the clock, such as distribution centres and automated industrial facilities. Although NDT equipment represents a significant investment, it can substantially increase rope service life while reducing the risk of unexpected failures and costly downtime.
In addition to providing inspection and analysis services, Mennens also supplies NDT equipment and offers support and guidance for its implementation and use.
Request Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) from Mennens
Want to gain certainty about the condition and safety of your steel wire ropes or lifting equipment? Our specialists are ready to help with professional Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), laboratory analysis, and expert advice.
