ANNUAL LOAD TESTING 1

[bumpjones]

The company I work for has been led to believe that we must annually load test our hoists at 125% of rated load. They have contractors from the past tell them this is required and I am looking for documentation to demonstrate this.

 

[RLJ]

bumpjones,

Hope this is not too late to help. See CFR29 1910.179 which covers overhead cranes, specifically section (k)(2). It states that a load test cannot exceed 125 percent of the hoists capacity. We have lots of overhead cranes (@ 120) ranging from 0.5 ton to 200 ton and we rarely load test above 100 percent of capacity. In addition other sections in CFR29 1910.179 will explain when a load is required.

RLJ s-)

 

[jdibiase]

Overhead and Gantry Cranes, ASME B30.2-1996 Section 2-2.2.2 Rated Load Test states that "the load rating should not be more than 80% of the maximum load sustained during the test. Test loads shall not be more than 125% of the rated load, unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer."

ASME B30.2a-1997 Section 2-2.2.2d states "If a load test is conducted, the load shall be not less than 100% of the rated load of the crane or hoist(s), whichever governs: or more than 125% of the rated load.

CSA B167-96 requires testing of all motions, limit switches, controls, brakes, etc at 100% rated capacity and speeds, and 125% rated capacity where rated speeds need not be attained.

 

[dugal]

Unless the hoist is new, been drastically modified or had a major load bearing part changed (excluding rope) you do not have to do annual load tests per ASME codes. Waste of time and money and causes extra wear on your hoist.