In many lighting columns, at ground level and just below, there is an area that is rich in moisture and oxygen which considerably encourages the corrosion of steel structures. This area is also one of the highest stress zones for street lighting columns, meaning any corrosive damage to the metal can significantly reduce the strength and integrity of the column. In extreme cases, this has been known to be the cause of complete collapse.
One of the biggest complication with this known issue, is the corrosion is often impossible to see without expensive and time-consuming excavation. However, it can be detected using our specialist testing solution.
We use the ColcheK System to ensure a non-destructive inspection to detect and estimate the extend of the corrosive damage, which offers a test of this high-stress area without having to excavate or prepare the column in any way.
The ColcheK System uses low frequency electromagnetic technology that does not emit or use any hazardous radiation and is non-contact. It compares the thickness of the column at ground level and below with that of about 150mm above, which is an area where any corrosion damage is not only visible, but also highly unlikely.
We will still also carry out a Visual Inspection as part of our testing routine however this system will allow us to offer an extensive test beyond that of what is visible.
Our testing will eliminate the need for replacement of columns that are structurally compliant, while highlighting those that are dangerous, by recording the percentage loss of thickness at ground level and below (as well as above via visual inspection). We will then be able to provide you a risk category, life expectancy and a period of recommended retesting for each column.
The grading we follow is as below –
% Loss of Thickness | Risk Category | Life Expectancy | Retest Recommendation |
0-10 % | 1 | 15 yrs + | 6 yrs |
11-20% | 2 | 10-15 yrs | 5 yrs |
21-30% | 3 | 5-10 yrs | 3yrs |
31-40% | 4 | 3-5 yrs | 2yrs |
41-50% | 5 | Under 2 yrs | 1yr |
51% + | 6 | FAIL | REMOVE |
Cable Connections Ltd are committed to raising the standards set across the industry both internally and externally, and we are consistently developing and improving our management and completion of our practises across our divisions, giving you the reassurances to rely and trust our quality of work is of the highest possible standards.
If you would like more information on the Standard Non-Destructive Testing, or would like to discuss a project with the team, please contact us on 02392 639381 or email us at office@cable-connections.co.uk.
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