6
Load Chain Reports
Records should be maintained documenting the condition of
load chain removed from service as part of a long-range load
chain inspection program. Accurate records will establish a
relationship between visual observations noted during frequent
inspections and the actual condition of the load chain as
determined by periodic inspection methods.
Frequent Inspection
The Manual Chain Hoist should be inspected at the beginning of
each shift. Visual inspections should also be conducted during
regular service for any damage or evidence of malfunction
which appears between regular inspections.
1. OPERATION. Check for visual signs or abnormal noises
which could indicate a potential problem. Do not operate a
hoist unless the chain feeds through the hoist and hook
block smoothly. Listen for “clicking”, binding or
malfunctioning. The clicking sound of the pawl on the
ratchet gear is normal when a load is being raised. If chain
binds, jumps, or is excessively noisy, clean and lubricate
the chain. If problem persists, replace the chain. Do not
operate the hoist until all problems have been corrected.
Check that hand chain moves freely and without binding or
excessive drag. Hook should stop moving when hand chain
stops moving.
2. HOOKS. Check for wear or damage, increased throat
width, bent shank or twisting of hook. Replace hooks
which exceed the throat opening discard width (15%)
shown in Table 2 (refer to Dwg. MHP0040) or exceed a
10° twist (refer to Dwg. MHP0111). If the hook latch snaps
past the tip of the hook, the hook is sprung and must be
replaced. Check hook support bearings for lubrication and
damage. Make sure that they swivel easily and smoothly.
Repair or lubricate as necessary.
(Dwg. MHP0040)
(Dwg. MHP0111)
3. HOOK LATCHES. Check operation of the hook latches.
Replace if broken or missing.
4. CHAIN. Refer to Dwg. MHP0102. Examine each of the
links for bending, cracks in weld areas or shoulders,
transverse nicks and gouges, weld splatter, corrosion pits,
striation (minute parallel lines) and chain wear, including
bearing surfaces between chain links. Replace a chain that
fails any of the inspections. Check lubrication and lubricate
if necessary. Refer to “Load Chain” under
“LUBRICATION.”
(Dwg. MHP0102)
CAUTION
• The full extent of chain wear cannot be determined by
visual inspection. At any indication of chain wear inspect
chain and load sheave in accordance with instructions in
“Periodic Inspection.”
5. LOAD CHAIN REEVING. Make sure welds on standing
links are away from load sheave. Reinstall chain if
necessary. Make sure chain is not capsized, twisted or
kinked. Adjust as required.
Periodic Inspection
According to ASME B30.16, frequency of periodic inspection
depends on the severity of usage:
NORMAL HEAVY SEVERE
yearly semiannually quarterly
Disassembly may be required for HEAVY or SEVERE usage.
Keep accumulative written records of periodic inspections to
provide a basis for continuing evaluation. Inspect all items in
“Frequent Inspection.” Also inspect the following:
1. FASTENERS. Check rivets, capscrews, nuts, cotter pins
and other fasteners on hooks and hoist body. Replace if
missing and tighten or secure if loose.