How sensor technology ensures the safety of steel structures
Bridges, cranes and buildings are subject to ever-changing loads from both the natural elements and human use. The question is not only how to ensure the safety of these structures but also how to extend their life without the expense of undergoing complete replacement. Through the use of unique sensors, maintenance and life extension decisions can be made in a safe and data-driven manner.
The crack detection system is a monitoring technology for the monitoring and early detection of crack growth in fatigued steel structures. Using sensor strips, the system detects variations in the magnetic field in the steel structure and expresses these as percentages. These percentage changes provide a reliable method for monitoring potential crack formation over time and providing targeted advice to structure managers. Due to its accuracy and sensitivity, the system can detect crack growth earlier than conventional weld tests such as ToFD and PAUT, thus allowing managers to take timely action to ensure the safety and continuity of operations.
Monitoring potential crack formation with sensor technology offers several advantages, such as:
“At Iv, we not only have the monitoring technology in-house but also more than 75 years of experience in the design of complex steel structures. From the world’s largest cranes and Ferris wheels to gigantic bridges and lock complexes, our experience is vast. Our background, combined with our highly specialised knowledge, particularly in the field of cranes and fatigue analysis of steel structures, largely derived from the former crane company Kalmar, enables us to proactively advise our clients on the best steps to take to maintain and extend the life of their structures,” says Lennard van Geel. “Many of our clients approach us with questions about the applicability of sensors to their steel structures, such as: Can this technology be applied to my container crane?”
We recently undertook a project for ECT, a large container terminal, where we installed sensors on their cranes to improve fatigue analyses and optimise maintenance strategies. This project shows how sensor technology works in practice and the benefits it offers.
Iv has teamed up with Villari to conduct the monitoring. This company provides continuous damage monitoring services and has developed a unique wireless sensor for this purpose. These sensors allow large amounts of data to be collected, which can be translated into meaningful parameters such as crack length and growth rate using sophisticated algorithms. The trick, however, is to place the sensors in precisely the right place to obtain the correct information. Together with Villari, we have a complete package of technical knowledge and resources to conduct the monitoring and provide structure managers with advice. This integrated approach ensures that clients always have the best and most accurate information for their life extension maintenance decisions.
Continuous monitoring of the condition of steel structures ensures that you are always aware of potential risks and can intervene in good time, saving money in the long run and providing a safe environment for all. Do you have a fatigued or ageing steel structure that you would like to use safely without investing heavily? Contact us to find out how our sensors and expertise can help extend the life of your valuable steel structures.
Jaco, managing director Consult, would be delighted to discuss this with you! Get in touch via +31 88 943 3100 or send a message.
