Allrig'S 440 Jacking System.
Allrig has successfully completed the ABS required lifecycle and prototype testing of its improved 440 series jacking system (compatible with MLT® 375 KIP), in accordance with 2015 MODU regulations.
This large-scale project was conducted to improve your supply chain options. The specialized knowledge and expertise of our team, combined with excellent partnerships were the keys to success.
Reduced lead times
The successful completion of this project provides class approval of our 440 jacking system equipment to 2015 MODU regulations. CEO Mark Hannigan explains
why Allrig invested in this project: “Reducing lead times is key. These parts have long lead times if purchased from other vendors, and are often not readily available globally. We maintain an inventory of these parts in every region of the world, so any customer can quickly receive replacements when needed.”
Partnership
Performing large-scale tests such as this requires detailed preparation, and strong partnerships are also vital. Engineering Manager Cristina Canfield explains: “A problem we initially faced was finding a facility and test stand capable conducting this type of testing. To remedy the latter, we designed our very own test stand. We found a valuable partner in Oilstates Industries, who provided the facility, some of the necessary equipment and personnel to run the tests. Together with our team, this partnership aided in the completion of the tests, and for that we are incredibly thankful.”
Testing
The first portion of the 20 year equivalent lifecycle test of our 440 jacking system was completed in June 2014.
The continuation this year was conducted to ensure that we are meeting all 2015 MODU requirements to further improve your jacking systems. Cristina explains, “in order to maintain an ABS approval on equipment, typically you need to renew your certifications every 5 years. Our jacking system has been ABS certified for nearly 10 years, and we are simply recertifying it to current standards.”
To explain in more detail, Chief Engineer Al Montestruc adds, “Particularly on older style jacking systems (open gearing), ABS requires a lifecycle test. If you want to build and get classified on older style (or one based on an older style) systems, you will need to perform a lifecycle test in addition to the required prototype test.”
Learning and improving
Asking Cristina about the main improvements of Allrig’s testing capabilities compared to 2014 she responds, “we have modified our test setup compared to the
previous iteration. New safety equipment such as our bull gear catch cage, hydraulic damper, and Cleardrop cover were included to demonstrate that they are
ready to keep your crew safer than ever. An improvement of gear teeth geometry along with improved material compositions, will ensure that your gears
outlast the competition.”
Team effort
With over 20 years of experience working on jacking systems, Chief Engineer Al Montestruc was responsible for the mechanical design work of this project. He was complemented by the structural engineering knowledge of Joanna Monge, plus the project management skills of Cristina Canfield.
Like all projects, the successful completion of the testing is due to teamwork. Lead electrical designer Steve Dunn developed and built the control system, plus wired our entire setup together. Heath Hebert, who was in charge of production and assembly, coordinated the project onsite and Bobby Leonard oversaw the welding
activities, to name a few team leaders .
Safety & testing to destruction
In order to test safely, we included safety devices in our setup. The bull gear catch cage was used to prevent the bull gear from falling in the event that it breaks off of
the system. A large hydraulic damper was attached to our rack to ensure that there is a safe maximum velocity if it were to freely drop due to failure of any equipment.
With these improvements, we can now safely test anyone’s jacking system as an independent third party, even until destruction. Without breaking the test stand, we
are able to find out exactly which parts caused the failure, and can therefore find and recommend the appropriate solutions. According to Al Montestruc, “We now
have the experience and knowledge to conduct lifecycle, prototype and destructive tests on any system that our customers care to see; something that many
suppliers are not capable nor willing to do.”
Would you like to know more?
Would you like to know more about this project? Or are you looking for advice on your jacking system? Contact us and find out what we can do for you!
