Crane rope diagnostic technology

Konecranes is introducing to Australasia safety and reliability diagnostic technology that evaluates the working condition of wire ropes integral to a huge variety of lifting equipment.

RopeQ is claimed to be a reliable and practical system that evaluates the working condition of wire ropes using non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, says Konecranes' Sales and Marketing Manager, Warren Ashton. The diagnostic tool uses electromagnetic technology to assess the inner and outer wires and strands of a wire rope. This testing method achieves reliable, accurate and repetitive inspection results that ensure safe use and may improve total life cycle cost.

RopeQ applies an electromagnetic-inductive testing method to detect flaws that are not visible on the surface of wire ropes, producing an assessment that can increase safety and reduce wire rope costs, says Ashton.

The RopeQ diagnostic tool fastens to wire rope assemblies and records a series of interior images along the entire length of the wire rope. The diagnostic survey produces data that pinpoints all areas and degrees of degradation. The precise results help to determine whether continued use is safe or whether the rope needs to be changed.

“RopeQ can improve the total life cycle costs of equipment by optimising wire rope change intervals in high-duty applications and critical equipment,” says Ashton.

“Throughout the working life of a wire rope, the strands and core are subjected to tension, bending and abrasion, which can compromise strength and safety. Routine maintenance often relies on predetermined replacement intervals regardless of the actual condition of the wire ropes, meaning that safe and operable ropes might be replaced too often or too soon, resulting in unnecessary downtime and increased costs.

“RopeQ produces verifiable condition assessments that can be compared against discard criteria, reducing the possibility of changing wire ropes that are still compliant with lifting regulations. Most importantly, RopeQ is able to detect flaws that are not visible to the naked eye, thus improving the overall safety of the lifting equipment.”

Konecranes has launched an audit service in Australasia drawing on its global CRS program to help industries to determine whether their overhead lifting equipment achieves optimum reliability, performance and mandatory safety standards.