Risque managment for the CEA

Compagnie MECO was selected by the JOSEPH PARIS company for the initial load testing of the main hoist on a Polar overhead crane at Cadarache’s French Atomic Energy Commission Centre.

Based on its reputation of excellence in setting specific procedures guaranteeing complete risk-management, Compagnie MECO has supplied Waterbags and on-site assistance for these critical load tests.

Mission objectives
The initial testing of a Polar overhead crane in dire conditions, including for instance a static load test at mid-span carried out above the pool of the reactor building. Load tests implying the use of high coefficients, such as 1.2 times the WLL for dynamic tests and 1.5 times the WLL for static tests.

Regulations
Application of the Ministerial Order of March 1st, 2004, regarding the control of lifting appliances and lifting equipment.

Solutions Implemented
Compagnie MECO supplied a kit including:
•2 Waterbags with a 35-tonne capacity each
•1 load-cell link with a 100-tonne capacity
•1 kit of hoses, valves and manifold allowing the filling and draining of the Waterbags

Avantages de cette solution
• Moins de 1 tonne de matériel transporté et manutentionné pour 55 tonnes mises en œuvre ce qui a permit de limiter la charge au sol.
• Charge variable pour convenir aux multiples configurations imposées par la procédure d’essai.
• Réalisation de plusieurs essais statiques sans solliciter le treuil principal, par remplissage de la charge suspendue.
• Rapidité d’exécution et maitrise de la technique en toute sécurité.