LOAD TEST DECK CRANE IN VIETNAM

The Importance of Deck Crane Load Testing in Maritime Operations

Deck cranes are essential lifting appliances on bulk carriers, container vessels, oil tankers, and offshore units. They handle thousands of tons of cargo during each voyage. If a crane fails, it can cause serious accidents, delays, and financial losses.

To prevent such risks, Proof Load Testing of deck cranes is mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), SOLAS regulations, and class societies including Lloyd’s Register, ABS, DNV, and Class NK.

At Bacviet Commercial and Shiptech JSC, we perform class-approved deck crane load tests in Vietnam using calibrated water bag systems. This method ensures safe, controlled loading and has become the global standard for crane testing.

Image for Precision load testing with water bags in Vietnam - Copyright by Bacviet Shiptech

Bacviet’s Capabilities and Expertise

With more than 20 years of service in the Vietnamese maritime industry, Bacviet is a trusted partner for shipowners, managers, and offshore operators worldwide.

• Certified professionals: Our team includes technicians with Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) and Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) approvals issued by Lloyd’s Register and Class NK, ensuring compliance with international safety codes.

• Experienced workforce: Marine engineers and riggers who have conducted hundreds of load tests for vessels under Panama, Liberia, Marshall Islands, and Singapore flags.

• Modern equipment: Calibrated water bags up to 100 tons, load cells, shackles, certified slings, and digital monitoring devices.

• Global trust: Long-term service provider for MSC Shipmanagement Limited, V.Ships Offshore, V.Ships Greece Ltd, and major Vietnamese port authorities.

• Fair pricing: Transparent cost structure, competitive for shipowners while maintaining high quality.

• 24/7 service: Mobile teams deployable at short notice, ensuring minimal downtime for vessels.

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Bacviet’s Proof Load Test Procedure

Every job is carried out following class-approved procedures, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and safety.

1. Pre-Test Survey

   • Review crane certificates, drawings, and specifications.

   • Inspect wire ropes, sheaves, safety devices, and load indicators.

2. Rigging Arrangement

   • Select suitable water bags, shackles, and slings based on crane SWL.

   • Establish rigging plan for class surveyor approval.

3. Load Application

   • Apply loads incrementally from 100% to 125% of SWL.

   • Conduct hoisting, slewing, luffing, and holding tests under load.

4. Monitoring and Recording

   • Use digital load cells for precise readings.

   • Observe crane deflection, stability, and hydraulic response.

5. Class Witnessing

   • Test witnessed by Lloyd’s, DNV, ABS, or NK surveyor.

   • Immediate endorsement upon completion.

6. Post-Test Assessment

   • Inspect crane structure for cracks, welds, and mechanical integrity.

   • Recommend preventive maintenance if required.

7. Documentation

   • Issue comprehensive reports with photos, load graphs, and class certificate.

Image Load test cargo crane by water bags and load cell in Vietnam 

Advantages of Water Bag and Load CellTesting

Unlike steel test weights, water bags and load cell provide:

• Controlled loading: Safe incremental application of test weights.

• Mobility: Easy to transport and deploy at any port or anchorage.

• Accuracy: Calibrated load cells with ±1% tolerance.

• Reduced risk: Prevents sudden shocks to crane structure.

• Eco-friendly: Water drained safely after testing.

Image for load test deck crane 35 tons for SWL 30 tons in Vietnam 

Case Study: 35T Crane Load Test at Cam pha anchorage

In February 2025, Bacviet performed a 35-ton proof load test on a bulk carrier vessel at Cam pha Port.

• Method: Water bag load test system with calibrated load cells.

• Witness: Surveyed and approved by Lloyd’s Register.

• Duration: Completed in 6 hours, minimizing downtime.

• Result: Vessel resumed cargo operation immediately with class certification issued on site.

This project reflects Bacviet’s ability to deliver fast, precise, and class-compliant services.

Service Coverage – Vietnam Ports and Anchorages

Bacviet performs deck crane load test services across all major ports and anchorages in Vietnam:

• Northern Vietnam: Hai Phong, Quang Ninh, Cai Lan, Cam Pha, Lach Huyen, Nghi Son, Cua Lo, Hon La.

• Central Vietnam: Da Nang, Quy Nhon, Dung Quat, Chan May, Van Phong.

• Southern Vietnam: Vung Tau, Cai Mep, Phu My, Saigon, Vinh Tan, Vissai, Thieng Lieng.

Thanks to our strategic logistics network and mobile service teams, Bacviet guarantees 24/7 availability at any Vietnamese port.