Structural and mechanical interfaces
Assess the effect on the whole machine.
A component change can increase loads on other parts of the machine. Assess those loads through the full load path and the relevant operating and maintenance configurations.
Loads and balance
Mass distribution, counterweight, stability, support reactions and fatigue demand.
Mechanical interfaces
Drive reactions, pins, ropes, cylinders and their supporting structures, where relevant to the change.
Installation and maintenance
Access, replacement, jacking and temporary arrangements as well as normal operation.
What your team receives
An assessment basis, calculations, interface loads, option comparisons and design actions for the agreed machine configurations. Sensitivity studies can identify which uncertain inputs could change the recommendation.
Connect the model with the machine on site
Use suitable luff trends, operating records, weighing information and other site measurements to reconcile mass, balance and predicted response with the current machine. Establish whether a difference comes from the machine configuration, the test conditions or the measurement itself before recommending a counterweight or design change.
How measured luff trends inform the assessmentMajor maintenance and component replacement
Assess temporary configurations, load redistribution, jacking and support reactions, local strength, stability and interfaces with temporary works. The package records the assessed arrangements, constraints and verification required. Lift planning, site methods and execution responsibilities are defined within the project scope.
When the modification is not yet defined
ACE can first review the available information and establish the assessment scope, identifying missing inputs, affected systems, specialist interfaces and key decisions. Detailed modelling, iterative design and implementation support are agreed separately.
The applicable checks and operating, maintenance and intermediate configurations are defined for each assessment.
Worked example: why restoring balance does not restore every loadEngineering support
Discuss your machine modification.
Include the machine, available design or operating information, and your required timing.