The magnetic rope testing device ROPESYS by ROTEC at the international conference.
The magnetic rope testing device ROPESYS by ROTEC was presented at the international conference “Subsea Lifting and Marine Operations 2024” on December 3rd and 4th in Stavanger. Dr. Martin Wehr, a member of ROTEC, gave a presentation alongside Dr. Alan Bell from Bridon-Bekaert titled “Advanced Applications of MRT & Computer Vision in Rope Monitoring.
Cooperation for innovative rope testing technologies
together with the Partner Bridon-Bekaert – The Ropes Group (https://ropes.bekaert.com/) ROTEC presented an innovative, combined system for non-destructive testing of steel ropes. This system integrates Bridon-Bekaert’s camera-based Visiontek rope testing device and ROTEC’s magnetic rope testing device ROPESYS.
Functions of the combined system
In 2024, both rope testing devices were integrated through software. This allows users to control both devices via a single software interface. Measurement data from both devices are captured and analyzed synchronously. This enables a comprehensive analysis of the ropes, as the results of the magnetic testing can be directly cross-referenced with the camera images.
The system provides many important data points, such as:
• Diameter progression,
• Lay length progression,
• Location and number of wire breaks in 3D,
• Loss of metallic cross-section.
This provides customers with precise and comprehensive reports that accurately document the condition of the ropes.
Independent and combined operation
Both the magnetic rope testing device ROPESYS by ROTEC and the Visiontek system can be operated independently or in combination. Since the introduction of the combined system in 2024, it has delivered reliable results for rope monitoring.
Pioneering developments
ROTEC and Bridon-Bekaert focus on continuous development. Bridon-Bekaert is currently working on increasing the recording speed of the Visiontek system to 5 m/s and further optimizing the user interface. ROTEC plans to release an improved analysis software later this year. This software will use artificial intelligence (AI) for automated fault detection and classification
Conclusion
Thank you to the conference organizers for creating an excellent platform for exchange within the offshore industry.
Learn more about the event: Subsea Lifting and Marine Operations
In the picture: Dr. Martin Wehr – Germany / Dr. Alan Bell from Bridon-Bekaert – UK
