Rigging Equipment Inspection (On-Site) and Testing
At Holloway Houston, we bring our testing and inspection expertise directly to your job site. Our field team is equipped with calibrated load cells, dynamometers, shackles, running line monitors, hydraulic jacks, and other specialized tools to measure, record, and verify loads in a wide variety of lifting applications. We help you identify accurate working loads, validate equipment performance, and document results to meet regulatory requirements. Whether you need center of gravity calculations, pad eye pulling, or load monitoring for cranes, our technicians are ready to assist with prompt service and dependable measurement accuracy.
Field Load Testing & Verification Services
Holloway Houston brings calibrated load testing equipment directly to your location. Our field team uses load cells rated 2 metric tons to 500 metric tons, hydraulic cylinders 12 tons to 500 tons, and certified test weights to measure, verify, and document actual load capacities.
Whether validating pad eye installations, proof testing crane hooks, or calculating center of gravity for critical lifts, our technicians provide accurate load data with traceable calibration certificates.
All load testing services include :
- Calibrated test equipment with current certification.
- Applied loads documented to applicable standards.
- Technician name.
- Test certificates with equipment serial numbers and test parameters.
- Load application per ASME, API, or manufacturer specifications.
- Digital or analog load monitoring with real-time readings.
Available On-Site Testing & Inspection Services
Our on-site capabilities cover a wide range of lifting and load monitoring requirements. We supply both the expertise and the specialized tools to handle lifting and rigging operations of any scale.
Field Testing & Measurement
Crane Hook & Block Load Testing
Proof load testing of hooks, blocks, and lifting attachments in line with ASME B30.10, B30.20, and BTH-1 or approved manufacturer/engineer procedures. Where required, 125% proof load is applied for certain devices. Hold time is performed per the approved method. Certificates confirm the tested items meet their rated capacity.
Pad Eye Pull Testing
Hydraulic cylinders and calibrated load cells apply tension forces to verify pad eye capacity and installation integrity. Test loads are applied per the project standard and engineer of record. Offshore projects may reference API RP 2D; provide the edition and clause used on your job. Any deformation is measured and recorded. Test certificates document applied loads, hold duration, and final measurements.
Tension Measurement
Running-line tensiometers and dynamometers measure actual tension forces in guy wires, moorings, tugger lines, and standing rigging. Real-time load data helps verify components remain within safe working limits during operations. Typical measurement range from 5 to 50 tons with accuracy per device specifications. Data logging available for extended monitoring projects.
Onboard Weighing & Load Distribution
Multiple high-capacity load cells positioned at designated points determine total weight and center of gravity for oversized cargo, modules, and vessels. Load distribution data supports lift planning, shipping documentation, and structural verification. System capacity up to 1000 tons using synchronized load cells with combined readout. Results include total weight, individual point loads, and CG coordinates.
Center of Gravity Testing
Calibrated load cells at multiple support points calculate precise center of gravity (CG) location for asymmetric loads. Essential data for crane selection, rigging design, and transport planning. Testing provides three-axis CG location, individual support reactions, and weight distribution percentages. Documentation includes load maps for lift planning and engineering review.
Field Socketing
[Wire rope socketing] performed on-site using molten zinc (spelter) or resin terminations per WRTB/manufacturer procedure, with controlled temperature and cooling. Documentation records rope construction, socket type, heat/lot (when applicable), and curing/cooling parameters. Field socketing eliminates transport delays for custom assemblies or emergency repairs.
Socket Load Testing
Proof load and acceptance criteria per approved procedure and engineer of record. Typical practice uses a specified percentage of rope MBL—confirm in the job procedure. Certificates report rope construction, termination method, proof load, and hold time. Any movement between rope and socket is measured and recorded.
Calibration Services
Field calibration of customer-owned load cells, dynamometers, and pressure gauges using certified master instruments traceable to NIST. Calibration performed at multiple test points across instrument range. Certificates include as-found/as-left readings, calibration date, technician certification, and next due date per quality program requirements.
Note : Crane Hooks & Block Lead Testing covers lifting attachments and rigging hardware only. Structural certification of cranes requires a qualified crane inspection.
Load Test Requirements by Equipment Type
| Equipment (Example) | Governing reference (Example) | Typical test basis (when required) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices | ASME B30.20 / BTH-1 | Often 125% of rated load | Confirm device class/design category and edition |
| Crane Hooks | ASME B30.10 | Per manufacturer/owner/engineer | Periodic proof testing is not universally required; inspection cadence applies |
| Pad Eyes (engineered) | Project spec / API RP 2D (offshore) | Per design or project requirement | Provide drawing/spec; loads and hold times per engineer |
| Wire Rope Sockets | WRTB/manufacturer procedure | Proof load per procedure | Acceptance and inspection criteria per procedure |
| Synthetic Slings | WSTDA RS-1/RS-2 & manufacturer | Manufacturer/project specified | New-sling proof testing depends on PO/spec |
Examples shown "For Awareness Only." Apply loads and acceptance criteria per the governing document and approved procedure. Angles, D/d, and geometry affect outcomes.
Non-Destructive Testing for Load-Bearing Components
In addition to load testing, we provide NDT methods to assess the integrity of your equipment by identifying flaws without causing damage. NDT services support load testing by identifying surface or near-surface discontinuities before proof loads are applied.
Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
A colored penetrant is applied to the surface of non-porous materials to detect cracks or porosity. A developer is then used to make defects visible. Method follows ASME Section V, Article 6 procedures.
Magnetic Particle Inspection (MT)
Ferromagnetic parts are magnetized, and iron particles reveal surface or shallow subsurface cracks by collecting at leakage fields. Testing performed per ASME Section V, Article 7 requirements.
Inspection and Testing for Rigging Hardware Rentals
Holloway Houston streamlines lifting operations with OSHA- and ASME-certified rigging rentals and on-site inspections. From load cells to shackles and tensioners, all equipment is tested, documented, and delivered ready for compliant use.
Sling Inspections
Holloway Houston provides on-site sling inspections to help maintain safety and compliance in lifting operations. Our technicians perform visual checks to identify wear, damage, or irregularities that could affect synthetic or wire rope sling performance.
Key Inspection Checks
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Visible cuts, fraying, or abrasion
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Heat or chemical damage
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Deformation of fittings or hardware
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Signs of overloading or improper use
Two- Tier Service Approach
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On-Site Inspections
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Detailed Recertification
Visual inspections in the field are a first line of defense, allowing users to identify slings that may require removal from service.
Detailed inspections using calibrated equipment. Services such as proof load testing, fabrication, and part replacement are completed in-house to meet industry standards.
By separating field inspections from facility services, Holloway Houston provides both immediate on-site support and thorough shop-based recertification to extend sling life and maintain compliance.
Test Documentation & Certificates
Every load test includes comprehensive documentation :
- Equipment identification (serial/asset numbers).
- Test date, duration, and environmental conditions.
- Calibrated instrument serial numbers with calibration dates.
- Applied load values and hold times.
- Technician name and certification level.
- Reference to governing standard with edition/year and applicable clauses.
- Pass/fail determination.
- Digital photos of test setup (when requested).
Certificates are provided on-site or within 24 hours of test completion. Electronic copies available through customer portal.
Testing Equipment Inventory
Holloway Houston maintains one of the Gulf Coast's largest inventories of load testing equipment :
LOAD CELLS
2 - 500 metric tons
HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS
12 - 1000 tons
TEST WEIGHTS
Certified masses to 800 tons
RUNNING-LINE TENSIOMETERS
10 mm to 103 mm | 9 metric tons to 120 metric tons
WIRELESS LOAD MONITORING SYSTEMS
With remote displays
DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEMS
For continuous monitoring
PORTABLE LOAD FRAMES
For component testing
All equipment carries current calibration certificates traceable to NIST standards.
Industries We Serve
Our on-site testing and inspection services are used in many sectors, including :
Marine
Industrial
Mining
Offshore (Oil & Gas)
Military
Theatrical Rigging
Construction
Outdoor Recreational
Utility
Heavy Lifting
Why Choose Holloway Houston for On-Site Inspection and Testing Services?
Holloway Houston delivers precise On-Site Testing and Inspection services using calibrated equipment and skilled technicians, helping you verify load safety and compliance in real-world conditions
Expert Field Technicians
Our technicians bring both experience and practical knowledge to every project. They are trained to handle challenging field environments and can recommend the most effective load measuring methods for your specific lifting setup.
Calibrated and Tested Equipmen
We use measurement tools that are fully calibrated before deployment. Each tool is checked in our facility and accompanied by documentation to confirm accuracy
Application-Based Support
We work with you to select the right testing approach for your load, lifting arrangement, and environment. This helps you avoid unnecessary downtime and get results quickly.
Flexible Scheduling
We understand that project timelines can change. Our services can be arranged for short visits, extended site presence, or urgent same-day dispatch depending on your needs.
Large Inventory Access
Our on-site testing team has access to one of the most complete inventories of load measuring equipment in the industry. This allows us to bring the right tools to match your project’s requirements.
Documented Results
Every test and inspection are documented with clear readings, equipment details, and compliance notes. Reports are provided promptly so you can file them with project records or regulatory submissions.
SAFETY
NOTICE
NOTICE
DISCLAIMER
All testing follows applicable standards and manufacturer procedures with calibrated equipment. Verify loads, hold times, and acceptance criteria with the governing standard (ASME B30.x, API, WSTDA) and the engineer of record.