Konecranes, the global leader in lifting industry, has introduced two new smart maintenance techniques for cranes.

RopeQ: Crane Wire Rope Inspection

RopeQ is a reliable and practical system that evaluates the working condition of wire ropes using advanced, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods. RopeQ is a diagnostic tool that 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 improve total lifecycle cost.

RopeQ applies an electromagnetic-inductive testing method to detect flaws that are not visible on the surface of wire ropes, producing an accurate assessment that can increase safety and reduce wire rope cost. 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 lifecycle costs of equipment by optimizing wire rope change intervals in process duty and critical equipment. 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 pre-determined 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 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 faults that are not visible to the naked eye, thus improving the overall safety of the lifting equipment.

RopeQ is appropriate for a wide range of applications, including but not limited to: steel mills, paper mills, steel service centres, foundries, waste-to-energy plants, pulp mills, chemical plants, power stations, nuclear power plants, aerospace and general manufacturing.

Rail Q: Crane Runway Rail Survey

RailQ is state-of-the-art survey that provides 2D and 3D graphs on runway rails and identifies misalignments and other problems. It offers optimal recommendations for corrective options and cost-effective solutions.

RailQ is an advanced laser survey technique that utilizes a proprietary remotely controlled robot trolley, Roborail, which runs along the rail collecting and feeding information to a total station laser tachymeter. The information is processed by our proprietary analysis and visualization software producing interactive reports that help visualize the problem areas. Konecranes structural engineers also review the data and provide professional recommendations and solutions.

RailQ literally reduces the time it takes to perform a runway survey from days to hours, saving precious down-time. RailQ is performed by an automated robot, which increases accuracy and effectiveness. The automated robot is also safer since there is no need for a person to walk the runway positioning targets. RailQ produces accurate and repeatable data that can be easily interpreted and visualized through our interactive tools.