Proof load test completed on 250t crane and lifeboats on dive support vessel

Summary of the Project

Unique Group’s Buoyancy & Ballast division successfully completed proof load testing on a 250t crane and four lifeboats on a dive support vessel within two days.

Client Requirement

The client requested Unique Group to perform proof load test on the lifting equipment (crane and lifeboats) on the British registered Sealion Shipping dive support vessel, Toisa Polaris.

Unique Solution Delivered

The dive support vessel had four lifeboats and a 250-tonne crane. The lifeboats were each loaded with 375kg water-filled weight bags to simulate the full working load and proof load, before being launched and lowered over the side of the ship. This proof load testing must be carried out at least once every five years to maintain the integrity of the lifeboat.

The offshore crane required a load of 275 tonnes to be applied as 10% more than safe working load is needed for proof load testing of this capacity. We used eight 35 tonne water filled proof load bags of Unique Group’s Water Weights brand. These were rigged with a spreader beam and used to achieve the load. It is mandatory to perform proof load testing on cranes every four years to maintain its integrity.

The entire test was completed within two days.

Benefits delivered

• Experienced Technical team providing on-site support
• Efficient and reliable method
• HSEQ Compliant
• Customised solution

Client feedback

Nico Groot, Inspector at Crane Inspection Service B.V, said, “I am delighted with the work carried out and with the excellent support we enjoyed from Unique Group with all the overload tests.”