ACRP 2010 Annual Conference Recap

The ACRP (Association of Crane & Rigging Professionals) met in Shreveport, LA during May 11-13, 2010. A series of in-depth presentations were made on the most current updates to the ASME volumes, including ITI's Devon Beasley's discussion about ASME B30.2 Overhead Cranes and B30.5 Mobile Cranes. A special highlight of the series was offered by Paul Sweeney, Chair of B30.1 Jacks, Industrial Rollers, Air Casters and Telescopic Hydraulic Gantry Systems. Mr. Sweeney is in charge of crane and rigging engineering group at Electric Boat - General Dynamics' shipyard in Groton, CT.

Tom DeSoo of Slingmax/I&I Sling presented a terrific overview of ASME B30.9 Slings with a review of inspection and removal criteria. Also, The Crosby Group's Danny Bishop provided attendees with the updates to ASME B30.10 Hooks and ASME B30.26 Rigging Hardware, during the technical session series.

A very informative session was provided by Michael Greenwood of Samson Ropes, which outlined the expanded usage of synthetic rope slings developed using Dyneema fibers, commonly known as HMPE (high-modulus polyethylene). These slings help in the super-lift category around the world, particularly in the offshore construction industry.

Mike Parnell of ITI presented three short topics on Positive Connections, Accident Causation and Engineered Sling Protection. The Crosby Group hosted a 2-hour tour of their Longview, TX forging plant where much of their shackle and load binder manufacturing is performed.

The General Assembly voted to issue letters of endorsement to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in support of the development of new chapters or volumes for three subjects; Lift Planning, Wire Rope and Strand Jacks.

The 2011 ACRP meeting is slated for Milwaukee, WI (May 10-13) with a host of technical sessions, including a tour of the Manitowoc Crane manufacturing facility. To become a member of ACRP and to participate in next year's event visit www.acrp.net.