ASTM F1797-18(2022)

Overview

ASTM F1797-18(2022): Standard Test Method for Acoustic Emission Testing of Insulated and Non-Insulated Digger Derricks establishes a procedure for evaluating the structural integrity of digger derricks using acoustic emission (AE) testing. This international ASTM standard ensures that the major load-bearing components of digger derricks-including both insulated and non-insulated types-can be assessed for potential defects or irregularities under controlled loading conditions. Digger derricks are essential for utility and construction industries, primarily designed for digging holes, setting poles, and positioning materials or equipment.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability:

  • Covers vehicle-mounted, multipurpose digger derricks, which may include insulated and non-insulated equipment.
  • Applicable to derricks designed for material handling and, if equipped, personnel positioning (when used with ASTM F914).
  • Excludes general-purpose cranes intended solely for lifting and machines designed just for digging.

• Testing Methodology:

  • Involves monitoring the release of energy (acoustic emissions) from localized sources within the digger derrick during controlled load application.
  • AE testing can detect the rapid release of energy associated with defects such as cracks, delamination, or fiber breakage in structural components.
  • Qualified personnel must interpret results and may halt testing at any time to examine areas of concern or prevent further structural damage.

• Follow-Up Inspection:

  • Any significant sources of acoustic emission must be further evaluated using detailed nondestructive testing (NDT) methods like ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, or visual inspection.
  • Identified defective areas should be repaired and retested as necessary.

• Safety and Personnel:

  • Testing requires the application of external loads to the digger derrick's superstructure.
  • Safety for personnel and equipment is paramount during testing to avoid unexpected failure or instability.
  • Only trained and certified personnel should conduct AE testing as per recognized qualification standards.

Applications

• Structural Integrity Assessment:

  • Provides a nondestructive means to detect and locate potential structural defects or irregularities in digger derricks before catastrophic failure.
  • Ensures ongoing operational safety and reliability for lifting, digging, and personnel support applications.

• Maintenance and Lifecycle Management:

  • Supports preventive maintenance programs by identifying problem areas early, enabling timely repairs and retesting.
  • Reduces downtime and maintenance costs by preventing unexpected breakdowns through scheduled AE testing.

• Regulatory and Industry Compliance:

  • Helps organizations comply with industry norms and safety requirements, especially in sectors like utilities, telecommunications, and construction where vehicle-mounted diggers are widely used.

• Component Evaluation:

  • Effective for evaluating critical structural members such as booms, cylinders, turntables, and pedestal attachments on both insulated (e.g., fiberglass-reinforced plastic) and non-insulated (metal) components.

Related Standards

Acoustic emission testing is often integrated with other nondestructive examination practices and supported by the following standards:

• ASTM E1417/E1417M: Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
• ASTM E1444/E1444M: Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
• ASTM E114: Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Contact Testing
• ASTM E164: Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Weldments
• ASTM E94: Guide for Radiographic Examination
• ASTM F914: Test Method for Acoustic Emission for Aerial Personnel Devices Without Supplemental Load Handling Attachments
• ANSI A10.31: Digger Derricks-Safety Requirements, Definitions, and Specifications

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM F1797-18(2022) for acoustic emission testing enables organizations to proactively assess equipment health, improve workplace safety, and extend the operational lifespan of digger derricks. By leveraging this standard method, stakeholders in construction, utilities, and industrial maintenance can achieve regulatory compliance, minimize risks, and ensure the reliability of their fleet assets through well-documented, repeatable, and internationally recognized test procedures.