Non Destructive Testing

Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)

MPI is used to detect surface and near-surface cracking in ferromagnetic materials such as crane components, lifting points and welded structures.

Typical applications:

• Crane structures, booms and jib connections
• Pad eyes, lifting lugs and load-bearing brackets
• Welded joints on lifting beams, spreaders and frames

Critical structural nodes on offshore and wind assets

Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI / PT)

DPI is used to reveal surface-breaking defects in both ferrous and non-ferrous materials, ideal where fine cracking is a concern.

Typical applications:

• Stainless and aluminium components
• Welds on platforms, access systems and fabrications
• Machined components and attachment points
• Small components where visual inspection is not sufficient

Eddy Current Testing (ET / ECT)

Eddy Current Testing is used to detect surface and near-surface defects in conductive materials and is particularly effective for repetitive inspections and complex geometries.

Typical applications:

• Critical areas on aluminium and stainless-steel components
• Weld toe and heat-affected zone scanning where surface condition suits ET
• Detection of fatigue cracking around bolt holes, attachment points and machined features
• High-frequency, repeat inspections on safety-critical components without removing coatings (where appropriate)

Eddy Current is a fast, clean method that can be highly effective where access or surface conditions limit other NDT techniques.

Magnetic Rope Testing (MRT)

Magnetic Rope Testing provides an in-depth assessment of wire rope condition, identifying internal and external defects that may not be visible.

Typical applications:

• Crane hoist ropes and boom hoist ropes
• Offshore pedestal crane and davit crane ropes
• Service lift and hoist ropes on wind turbines
• Lifting and mooring ropes in marine and industrial environments

MRT supports decisions on rope replacement, life extension and safe working limits.

Load Testing & Proof Load Tests

Alongside NDT, Certex UK delivers load testing services to confirm the performance of lifting equipment and structures under controlled conditions, both on-site and in our dedicated test bed facilities:

• Static and dynamic proof load testing of cranes, davits, hoists, lifting beams, spreader beams and lifting points
• Supply of test weights, water bags and calibrated load cells
• Load testing of access and rescue systems, where required
• Detailed load test reports and certification for audit, insurance and statutory compliance

Test Bed Facilities

Our test bed facilities enable controlled, repeatable load testing of:

• Lifting accessories – chain slings, wire rope slings, webbing and round slings
• Lifting beams, spreader beams, frames and assemblies
• Shackles, hooks, lifting points and other items requiring factory-based proof load testing

This supports product verification, recertification, investigation work and development testing, with the option to combine load tests with MPI, DPI, MRT and Eddy Current Testing during the same work scope to minimise downtime and handling.

Typical Equipment & Structures We Test 

Our NDT, test bed and load testing services cover, but are not limited to:

• Overhead cranes, jib cranes, gantries and runway structures
• Offshore pedestal cranes, davit cranes and lifeboat / rescue davits
• Wind turbine service lifts, davits and associated lifting equipment
• Lifting beams, spreader beams, frames and A-frames
• Pad eyes, lifting points, tie-downs and structural anchors
• Access platforms, walkways and key structural welds
• Lifting accessories and components tested in our test bed facilities

Where We Work

Certex UK Engineers support customers across the UK and worldwide, including:

• Offshore oil & gas installations and marine vessels
• Onshore and offshore wind farms, offshore substations and transition pieces
• Ports, terminals and dockside operations
• Factories, fabrication shops and industrial plants
• Construction and infrastructure projects

We can deliver one-off tests, campaign-based work scopes or ongoing inspection and test programmes, using a mix of on-site testing and test bed-based work as appropriate.

Digital Reporting & Asset Management

All NDT and load testing activities are recorded within our digital asset and certification management system:

• Electronic NDT and load test reports with images and defect locations
• Central register of tested assets and equipment (including test bed certificates)
• Visibility of test dates, next due dates and recommendations
• Easy access for audits, client verification and internal reviews

This improves traceability and supports long-term integrity management of critical assets and lifting accessories.

Why Choose Certex UK for NDT & Load Testing?

• PCN and ASNT qualified NDT technicians with extensive field experience
• Wide NDT capability – MPI, DPI, Eddy Current Testing (ET) and Magnetic Rope Testing (MRT)
• Integrated load testing on-site and in dedicated test bed facilities
• Specialist experience in offshore, marine, wind and heavy industry
• Digital reporting and asset management for clear traceability

Onshore and offshore support, across the UK and worldwide