Integrated Approach to Determine Operational Integrity of Crane Metal Structure

One of the elements limiting the crane life cycle and affecting the safety of its operation is a metal structure. Currently, there is no single scientifically-based approach to assess the operational integrity of crane metal structures. The paper deals with issues related to the development of an integrated approach to determine the operational integrity of crane metal structures, based on a combination of numerical methods of calculation (the finite element method and boundary states calculation) and magnetic coercive non-destructive control. The research of the influence of the metal chemical composition, its microstructure and the controlled elements thickness on coercive force values have been carried out. In order to take into account these parameters, it is suggested to use certificated experimental samples with variable cross sections. The practical value of the research is to apply the integrated approach that will eliminate the disadvantages of a separate method, complement these methods, increase the objectivity and accuracy of determining the operational integrity of crane metal structures.