8 minute read
Why fatigue cracks return after repair
Compare the intended repair with the installed detail, investigate the loading and establish what the next repair needs to address.
Read articleEngineering resources
Technical insights
and engineering resources.
Practical resources for OEM, project, maintenance and asset engineers working with stackers, reclaimers and shiploaders.
Technical Insights
Browse engineering articles
Choose a topic or search the articles. No registration is needed.
Browse by topic
17 insights shown
Repairs and continued service
12 minute read
Corrosion and fatigue from inspection to repair
Connect cracking, corrosion and inspection gaps to operating decisions, repair priorities and the next inspection.
Read article
8 minute read
Reviewing deferred repairs when machine replacement is delayed
When replacement is delayed, reassess the service required from the existing machine and the time available for inspection and repair.
Read article
12 minute read
Before adding or removing steel from a bulk handling machine
Follow load paths, required movement and the installation sequence before adding, altering or removing steel.
Read article
9 minute read
How changed operating duty affects machine fatigue
Check how changed hours, cutting duty, speed and machine movements affect fatigue demand and the existing assessment.
Read articleMachine modifications and shutdowns
8 minute read
Assessing upgrades to existing bulk handling machines
Assess the existing machine, connected equipment and infrastructure against the proposed duty before committing to an upgrade.
Read article
7 minute read
Understanding machine balance before changing the counterweight
Check test conditions and machine changes before adjusting counterweight. Follow the effects through linkage forces, support loads and stability.
Read article
4 minute read
A heavier bucketwheel drive: rebalancing does not restore the original loads
Rebalancing after a heavier drive upgrade can restore cylinder force while the centre link and supporting structure carry higher loads.
Read article
8 minute read
A lighter bucketwheel drive is not automatically a cheaper upgrade
Compare complete drive arrangements, including supports, services and access. A lower equipment price may transfer costs elsewhere.
Read article
12 minute read
Jacking points and temporary support for a slew bearing change out
Plan jacking locations, temporary supports and restraints around the load path at each stage of a bearing replacement.
Read article
12 minute read
Luff cylinders and the limits that protect the machine
Assess cylinder forces, support after failure and the connected effects of changes to balance, structure and controls.
Read articleNew machine design and review
16 minute read
Designing a new bulk handling machine around the work it must do
Connect operating duty, loads, interfaces and maintenance requirements to the evidence needed at each design release.
Read article
10 minute read
Reducing rework in machine design and fabrication
Resolve transport, assembly and fabrication decisions before dependent work is released, then verify accepted changes.
Read article
10 minute read
Design review before procurement
Identify what can proceed to procurement, what needs further evidence and which supplier interfaces remain unresolved.
Read article
9 minute read
Checking the machine and its supporting infrastructure together
Check the machine, rails, foundations and supporting infrastructure together before fixing the design or upgrade scope.
Read article
7 minute read
Assessing the real value of a lighter machine
Assess mass location, counterweight, fatigue and fabrication requirements before treating a lighter design as a saving.
Read article
4 minute read
What a compliance check establishes
Understand the configuration, requirements and assessment scope behind a compliance result before relying on it.
Read articleNo matching articles
Try a different word or browse all topics.
Assessing ACE’s capabilities?
Review ACE’s project experience.
Read the reference projects and professional experience, or download the capability statement directly.
View reference projects ↗Download capability statement (PDF) ↓
Keep learning
More technical insights from ACE.
Register your interest in future engineering articles and occasional workshop invitations.
Start a conversation
Need engineering support for a current project?
Contact ACE about the machine, proposed work or observed damage, and your required timing. We will discuss the engineering support required.