Durham Lifting Invests in 3000 Tonne Testing Capability.
A major investment in high-capacity proof load testing strengthens Durham Lifting’s ability to test large components, lifting equipment and complete engineered systems under controlled conditions.
Durham Lifting has made a major investment in its proof load testing capability with the installation of a modular 3,000-tonne test bed at its Middlesbrough facility.
The new machine significantly increases the scale and complexity of testing that can be carried out in-house, supporting customers with large lifting components, heavy engineered equipment and bespoke test arrangements.
A major expansion of in-house testing capability
The modular test bed enables Durham Lifting to develop controlled test arrangements for large components and complete assemblies that may be unsuitable for conventional testing equipment.
Built for large and demanding test programmes
Proof load testing is a critical part of confirming that lifting equipment and load-bearing components can perform safely under the forces they are designed to withstand.
As lifting projects become larger and more technically demanding, customers require access to testing facilities capable of reproducing significant loads while accommodating equipment of different sizes, shapes and configurations.
Durham Lifting’s 3,000-tonne test bed has been introduced to meet that requirement. Its modular construction allows the testing arrangement to be adapted around the equipment rather than relying on a single fixed setup.
Heavy-load testing
The machine supports high-capacity testing for large lifting equipment, structural components and engineered assemblies.
Tension and compression
Different test configurations can be developed for equipment subject to tensile or compressive loading.
Testing completed in-house
Durham Lifting can manage test preparation, tooling, loading and verification through one experienced team.
Tension and compression testing
The test bed can be configured to carry out both tension and compression testing, giving Durham Lifting the flexibility to support a broad range of equipment and engineering applications.
Tension testing applies a controlled pulling force to equipment such as lifting assemblies, slings, chains, links and structural components. Compression testing applies force in the opposite direction and is suitable for equipment designed to withstand crushing, bearing or compressive loads.
The ability to perform both types of test within a modular system allows the machine to be adapted to suit the load path and geometry of each item.
Equipment that can be tested
The 3,000-tonne test bed can support testing across a wide range of lifting, marine, structural and heavy industrial equipment.
Each test is reviewed individually to determine the required load, support arrangement, connection points and method of safely applying force to the equipment.
Bespoke tooling for complex test arrangements
Large or unusual components cannot always be connected directly to a test machine. The way an item is supported and loaded can be just as important as the capacity of the machine itself.
Durham Lifting can design and fabricate bespoke holding tools, connection assemblies and test fixtures specifically for the test bed and the equipment being assessed.
This gives the team greater control over the test arrangement and allows loads to be introduced through appropriate connection points, helping create a test that reflects the intended use of the equipment.
Test fixtures designed around the equipment
Durham Lifting can design and manufacture purpose-built tooling, supports and connection systems for components that require a specialist testing arrangement.
From initial review to final test
Every testing project begins with a technical review of the equipment, required test load and applicable acceptance criteria.
The team then develops a safe and practical test arrangement, including any tooling needed to position the equipment and transfer the required force correctly.
Assess the requirement
The equipment, required load, dimensions and proposed acceptance criteria are reviewed.
Develop the test arrangement
The team plans the load path, supports, connections and any specialist tooling required.
Apply the controlled load
The equipment is loaded under controlled conditions using the agreed test method.
Inspect and document
Results are reviewed and the relevant testing documentation is prepared.
Part of an extensive testing facility
The 3,000-tonne machine complements Durham Lifting’s existing range of proof load testing equipment rather than replacing it.
Different machines and test areas are available for components of varying capacities and dimensions, allowing the team to select an arrangement suited to each individual project.
This means Durham Lifting can support requirements ranging from the testing of individual lifting accessories to large assemblies and complete engineered systems.
Whether the requirement involves a single heavy component or a complete lifting system, Durham Lifting can develop a controlled test arrangement around the equipment and the forces it must withstand.
Accuracy, maintenance and reliability
High-capacity test equipment must produce dependable and repeatable results. Durham Lifting maintains and calibrates its testing equipment to support accurate load application and reliable verification.
The company’s investment extends beyond the test machine itself. It includes the engineering knowledge, load measurement equipment, fixtures and inspection processes needed to deliver a complete testing service.
Keeping testing, engineering and fabrication capability within one business also allows technical issues to be addressed quickly and gives customers a clear point of contact throughout the project.
Supporting larger projects and future growth
The addition of the 3,000-tonne test bed is an important part of Durham Lifting’s continued investment in heavy lifting and testing capability.
It enables the company to support larger components, more complex test programmes and projects across sectors including offshore energy, marine, construction, infrastructure, manufacturing and heavy industry.
By combining high-capacity equipment with in-house engineering, fabrication and testing expertise, Durham Lifting can provide a solution developed around the customer’s equipment rather than restricting the project to a standard test arrangement.
Testing solutions built around your equipment.
From individual components to complete engineered assemblies, Durham Lifting can develop bespoke tension and compression test arrangements supported by in-house engineering and fabrication.