New Straightpoint load test software produces certification onsite

Proof Test plus records data gathered by a Radiolink plus load cell, load shackle or compression load cell, for example. It then creates a pass or fail certificate that includes test data and graphs charting data from the load versus time throughout a test. Information can be printed out directly as a PDF report, electronically transmitted or fed to an information centre in the cloud.

The system, offering a 700m (2,300 feet) range, will be used in a myriad of load testing applications, including cranes with water bags or block weights; tugs and bollards; pad eyes or flypoints (marine industry); crash barriers; construction equipment; below-the-hook equipment; and more.

Straightpoint already provided a series of software products, including a wireless centre of gravity tool, multiple wireless control system and desktop controller, but the Proof Test plus (or SW-PTP) is a tailored technology specific to load tests.

Additional key features include free entry fields to note wind speed and sea states, for example, and log data at speeds up to 200Hz.

David Ayling, director of Straightpoint, said: “During our research we found an end user who conducts load tests on a regular basis and he was hand-writing 30 certificates a day. His drawn out routine involved taking them back to an office, where an admin team would enter the data, before they were eventually mailed back to the client.

“Not only did the archaic process mean someone was waiting for days, weeks even, for load test results, the system wasn’t flawless as mistakes could be made during recording the data manually on site or when information was entered at the office. Now, in theory, a crane rigged with force measurement equipment for a load test can produce certification and then lift a load immediately.”