Services · On site
On-site load testing
When the gear cannot come to our test house, we take the test to it: water bags for the proof load, and load cells to measure it.
- Water bags for the proof load
- Load cells from 1 to 500 t as standard
- Larger cells up to 3,000 t
Method
How water-bag testing works
The empty bags are rigged below the item and filled step by step, with a load cell in the line reading the load as it builds. Once the proof load is reached and held, the bags are drained in a controlled way and the item is examined.
- The load builds gradually: no shock loading
- The load is read directly, not estimated from water volume
- Bags are carried empty, so they reach places test weights cannot
Typical on-site jobs
Lifting gear that is installed, or too large to move to a test house.
Cranes and hoisting gear
On board ship, on the quay or in the plant, tested where they work.
Gantries and lifting beams
Beams, spreaders and frames tested in place before they go into service.
Davits and lifting points
Padeyes, davits and lifting lugs proof-loaded where they are fixed.
Slings in service
Slings and assemblies already on site, re-tested before a critical lift.
Measuring the load
Load cells
We use and supply Crosby Straightpoint load cells, load pins and load shackles with wireless readouts.
- Standard cells from 1 to 500 t; larger cells up to 3,000 t
- Wireless readout up to 700 m away
- DNV-GL type approved, ATEX and IECEx versions available
Four steps
How an on-site test runs
Details
The item, its working load limit, the proof load the standard requires, and access on site.
Plan
We size the water bags, the rigging and the load cell for the proof load.
Test
The load is built up, held, released and the item examined, witnessed by the surveyor where required.
Certificate
Issued in our own name for the item tested, with the proof load applied.
Frequently asked questions
Why water bags instead of solid test weights?
Water bags are carried to site empty and filled in place, so the proof load is built up gradually and released in a controlled way by draining. They suit gear that is installed or too large to move.
How is the load measured?
With a load cell in the line. Our standard cells cover 1 to 500 t; larger cells, up to 3,000 t, are available for heavy tests.
What do you need from us on site?
Access to the item and the space below it, a supply of water to fill the bags, the working load limit and the standard the test must meet, and the person responsible for the equipment.
Can the test be witnessed by a class surveyor?
Yes, where the job is surveyed — IRS · ABS · LRS · BV. Tell us when you enquire so we can arrange it.
Can we buy the load cells?
Yes. We supply Crosby Straightpoint load cells, load pins and load shackles with wireless readouts. See load monitoring in our catalogue.
Our other services
1 to 1,200 TProof-load testing
Slings, fittings and assemblies proof-loaded on our own machines and certified on their serial number.
Read more
3,000 t swaging machineSling manufacturing & swaging
Wire rope, chain and webbing slings made to your load in our own works.
Read more
IRS · ABS · LRS · BVInspection & certification
Certificates in our own name, and help reading the paperwork you are offered.
Read more
23,500+ itemsStock & despatch
Five warehouses around Mumbai; ex-stock orders leave within 72 hours.
Read moreBook an on-site load test
Tell us what needs testing, its working load limit and where it is — we reply with a plan and a price.