ASTM F1797-18(2022)

Standard Test Method for Acoustic Emission Testing of Insulated and Non-Insulated Digger Derricks

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method permits testing of the major components of a digger derrick generated by the rapid release of energy from localized sources within the digger derrick under controlled loading. The energy releases occur during intentional application of a predetermined load. These energy releases can be monitored and interpreted by qualified individuals. Acceptance/rejection criteria are beyond the scope of this test method. The test may be discontinued at any time to investigate a particular area of concern, or to prevent a fault from continuing to ultimate failure of the digger derrick resulting from the application of the test load.  
5.2 This test method provides a means of detecting acoustic emission sources that may be defects, irregularities, or both, affecting the structural integrity or intended use of the aerial personnel device.  
5.3 Significant sources of acoustic emission found with this test method shall be evaluated by either more refined acoustic emission test techniques or by other nondestructive methods (visual, liquid penetrant, radiography, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, etc.). Other nondestructive methods may be required in order to precisely locate defects in the digger derrick, and to estimate their size. Additional tests are outside the scope of this test method.  
5.4 Defective areas found in digger derricks by this test method should be repaired and retested as appropriate. Repair procedure recommendations are outside the scope of this test method. Repair procedure recommendations are outside the scope of this test method.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for acoustic emission (AE) testing of digger derricks.  
1.1.1 Equipment Covered—This test method applies to special multipurpose vehicle-mounted machines, commonly known as digger derricks. These machines are primarily designed to dig holes, set poles, and position materials and apparatus.  
1.1.1.1 Insulated and non-insulated type digger derricks may be evaluated with this test method.
1.1.1.2 Digger derricks, if so equipped to position personnel or equipment, or both, may also be evaluated with this test method in conjunction with Test Method F914.  
1.1.2 Equipment Not Covered—Excluded from this test method are general-purpose cranes designed only for lifting service and machines primarily designed only for digging holes.  
1.2 The AE test method is used to detect and area-locate emission sources. Verification of emission sources may require the use of other nondestructive test (NDT) methods, such as radiography, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, and visual inspection.  
1.3 Warning—This test method requires that external loads be applied to the superstructure of the vehicle under test. During the test, caution must be taken to safeguard personnel and equipment against unexpected failure or instability of the vehicle or components.
FIG. 1 Digger Derrick Nomenclature  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Aug-2022
• ICS: 17.140.20 - Noise emitted by machines and equipment
• ICS: 47.020.40 - Lifting and cargo handling equipment
• Technical Committee: F18 - Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers
• Drafting Committee: F18.55 - Inspection and Non-Destructive Test Methods for Aerial Devices

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E750-15(2020) - Standard Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instrumentation
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM E1444/E1444M-16 - Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2016
• Refers: ASTM E750-15 - Standard Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instrumentation
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2015
• Refers: ASTM E1417/E1417M-13 - Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2013
• Refers: ASTM E1444/E1444M-12 - Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2012
• Refers: ASTM E1417/E1417M-11e1 - Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2011
• Refers: ASTM E1417/E1417M-11 - Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2011
• Refers: ASTM E1444/E1444M-11 - Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2011
• Refers: ASTM E114-10 - Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Contact Testing
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2010
• Refers: ASTM E976-10 - Standard Guide for Determining the Reproducibility of Acoustic Emission Sensor Response
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2010
• Refers: ASTM E750-10 - Standard Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instrumentation
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2010
• Refers: ASTM E164-08 - Standard Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Weldments
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2008
• Refers: ASTM E569-07 - Standard Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Structures During Controlled Stimulation
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2007
• Refers: ASTM E976-05 - Standard Guide for Determining the Reproducibility of Acoustic Emission Sensor Response
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2005
• Refers: ASTM E114-95(2005) - Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Examination by the Contact Method
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2005

Overview

ASTM F1797-18(2022): Standard Test Method for Acoustic Emission Testing of Insulated and Non-Insulated Digger Derricks establishes a procedure for evaluating the structural integrity of digger derricks using acoustic emission (AE) testing. This international ASTM standard ensures that the major load-bearing components of digger derricks-including both insulated and non-insulated types-can be assessed for potential defects or irregularities under controlled loading conditions. Digger derricks are essential for utility and construction industries, primarily designed for digging holes, setting poles, and positioning materials or equipment.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability:

  • Covers vehicle-mounted, multipurpose digger derricks, which may include insulated and non-insulated equipment.
  • Applicable to derricks designed for material handling and, if equipped, personnel positioning (when used with ASTM F914).
  • Excludes general-purpose cranes intended solely for lifting and machines designed just for digging.

• Testing Methodology:

  • Involves monitoring the release of energy (acoustic emissions) from localized sources within the digger derrick during controlled load application.
  • AE testing can detect the rapid release of energy associated with defects such as cracks, delamination, or fiber breakage in structural components.
  • Qualified personnel must interpret results and may halt testing at any time to examine areas of concern or prevent further structural damage.

• Follow-Up Inspection:

  • Any significant sources of acoustic emission must be further evaluated using detailed nondestructive testing (NDT) methods like ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, or visual inspection.
  • Identified defective areas should be repaired and retested as necessary.

• Safety and Personnel:

  • Testing requires the application of external loads to the digger derrick's superstructure.
  • Safety for personnel and equipment is paramount during testing to avoid unexpected failure or instability.
  • Only trained and certified personnel should conduct AE testing as per recognized qualification standards.

Applications

• Structural Integrity Assessment:

  • Provides a nondestructive means to detect and locate potential structural defects or irregularities in digger derricks before catastrophic failure.
  • Ensures ongoing operational safety and reliability for lifting, digging, and personnel support applications.

• Maintenance and Lifecycle Management:

  • Supports preventive maintenance programs by identifying problem areas early, enabling timely repairs and retesting.
  • Reduces downtime and maintenance costs by preventing unexpected breakdowns through scheduled AE testing.

• Regulatory and Industry Compliance:

  • Helps organizations comply with industry norms and safety requirements, especially in sectors like utilities, telecommunications, and construction where vehicle-mounted diggers are widely used.

• Component Evaluation:

  • Effective for evaluating critical structural members such as booms, cylinders, turntables, and pedestal attachments on both insulated (e.g., fiberglass-reinforced plastic) and non-insulated (metal) components.

Related Standards

Acoustic emission testing is often integrated with other nondestructive examination practices and supported by the following standards:

• ASTM E1417/E1417M: Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
• ASTM E1444/E1444M: Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
• ASTM E114: Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Contact Testing
• ASTM E164: Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Weldments
• ASTM E94: Guide for Radiographic Examination
• ASTM F914: Test Method for Acoustic Emission for Aerial Personnel Devices Without Supplemental Load Handling Attachments
• ANSI A10.31: Digger Derricks-Safety Requirements, Definitions, and Specifications

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM F1797-18(2022) for acoustic emission testing enables organizations to proactively assess equipment health, improve workplace safety, and extend the operational lifespan of digger derricks. By leveraging this standard method, stakeholders in construction, utilities, and industrial maintenance can achieve regulatory compliance, minimize risks, and ensure the reliability of their fleet assets through well-documented, repeatable, and internationally recognized test procedures.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F1797 − 18 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Test Method for
Acoustic Emission Testing of Insulated and Non-Insulated
Digger Derricks
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1797; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for acoustic emis-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
sion (AE) testing of digger derricks.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.1.1 Equipment Covered—This test method applies to spe-
cial multipurpose vehicle-mounted machines, commonly
2. Referenced Documents
known as digger derricks. These machines are primarily
2.1 ASTM Standards:
designed to dig holes, set poles, and position materials and
E94 Guide for Radiographic Examination Using Industrial
apparatus.
Radiographic Film
1.1.1.1 Insulated and non-insulated type digger derricks
E114 Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam
may be evaluated with this test method.
Contact Testing
1.1.1.2 Digger derricks, if so equipped to position personnel
E164 Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Weldments
or equipment, or both, may also be evaluated with this test
E569 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Struc-
method in conjunction with Test Method F914.
tures During Controlled Stimulation
1.1.2 Equipment Not Covered—Excluded from this test
E610 Terminology Relating to Acoustic Emission (With-
method are general-purpose cranes designed only for lifting
drawn 1991)
service and machines primarily designed only for digging
E650 Guide for Mounting Piezoelectric Acoustic Emission
holes.
Sensors
1.2 The AE test method is used to detect and area-locate
E750 Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instru-
emission sources. Verification of emission sources may require
mentation
the use of other nondestructive test (NDT) methods, such as
E976 Guide for Determining the Reproducibility of Acoustic
radiography, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, and
Emission Sensor Response
visual inspection.
E1417/E1417M Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
1.3 Warning—This test method requires that external loads
E1444/E1444M Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing for
be applied to the superstructure of the vehicle under test.
Aerospace
During the test, caution must be taken to safeguard personnel
F914 Test Method for Acoustic Emission for Aerial Person-
and equipment against unexpected failure or instability of the
nel Devices Without Supplemental Load Handling Attach-
vehicle or components.
ments
2.2 Other Standards:
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
ASNT Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A— Personnel
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ANSI A10.31 Digger Derricks—Safety Requirements,
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Definitions, and Specifications
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F18 on the ASTM website.
Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers and is the direct responsibility of The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.ast-
Subcommittee F18.55 on Inspection and Non-Destructive Test Methods for Aerial m.org.
Devices. Available from American Society of Nondestructive Testing, 4153 Arlingate
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2022. Published October 2022. Originally Plaza, Caller #28518, Columbus, OH 43228.
approved in 1997. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as F1797–18. DOI: Available from the American National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway,
10.1520/F1797-18R22. New York, NY 10018.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1797 − 18 (2022)
FIG. 1 Digger Derrick Nomenclature
EMI Nomenclature and Specifications for Truck-Mounted 3.1.6 commoned—two or more sensors interconnected such
Extensible Aerial Devices, Articulating Aerial Devices, that the sensor outputs are electronically processed by a single
Digger-Derricks channel without differentiation of sensor origin. (syn. teed)
3.1.7 count, n—(acoustic emission count) the number of
3. Terminology
times the acoustic emission signal amplitude exceeds a preset
3.1 Definitions:
threshold during any selected portion of a test.
3.1.1 acoustic emission, AE—the class of phenomena
3.1.8 decibel, dB—a reference scale that expresses the
whereby elastic waves are generated by the rapid release of
logarithmic ratio of a signal peak amplitude to a fixed reference
energy from a localized source or sources within a material, or
amplitude.
the transient elastic wave(s) so generated.
A
3.1.1.1 Discussion—acoustic emission is the recommended
Signal peak amplitude dB 5 20 log (1)
~ !
A
term for general use. Other terms that have been used in AE
literature include (1) stress wave emission, (2) micro-seismic
where:
activity, and (3) emission or acoustic emission with other
A = 1 μV at the sensor output (before amplification), and
qualifying modifiers.
A = peak voltage of the measured acoustic emission signal.
3.1.2 amplitude (acoustic emission signal amplitude)—the
peak voltage of the largest excursion attained by the signal
Acoustic Emission Reference Scale
waveform from an emission event.
Voltage At Voltage at Integral Preamp
dB Value
Sensor Output Sensor Output (40 dB Gain)
3.1.3 amplitude distribution—a display of the number of
0 1 μV 100 μV
acoustic emission events with signals that exceed an arbitrary
20 10 μV 1 mV
amplitude as a function of amplitude.
40 100 μV 10 mV
60 1 mV 100 mV
3.1.4 attenuation—loss of energy per unit distance, typically
80 10 mV 1 V
measured as loss of signal peak amplitude with unit distance
100 100 mV 10 V
from the source of emission.
3.1.9 event (acoustic emission event)—a local material
3.1.5 channel—an input to the main AE instrument that change giving rise to acoustic emission.
accepts a preamplifier output.
3.1.10 event count, N—the number obtained by counting
each discerned acoustic emission event once.
6 3.1.11 first-hit—a mode of operation of AE monitoring
Available from the Equipment Manufacturer’s Institute, 410 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611. equipment in which an event occurring on one channel will
F1797 − 18 (2022)
prevent all other channels from processing data for a specified 3.2.14 jib—an auxiliary boom that attaches to the upper
period of time. The channel with a sensor closest to the boom tip to extend the reach of the boom.
physical location of the emission source will then be the only
3.2.15 lift cylinder—a hydraulic cylinder that lifts the boom.
channel processing data from that source.
3.2.16 load block—a component consisting of a sheave or
3.1.12 insulator—any part of the digger derrick such as, but
sheaves and a hook that is used for multiple parting of the load
not limited to, any of the extensible boom sections or support-
line.
ing structure, made of a material having a high dielectric
3.2.17 load capacity—the maximum load, specified by the
strength, usually FRP or the equivalent.
manufacturer, that can be lifted by the mobile unit at regular
3.1.13 noise—any undesired signal that tends to interfere
intervals of load radius and boom angle, through the specified
with the normal reception or processing of the desired signal.
ranges of boom elevation, extension, and rotation, with options
3.1.14 qualified personnel—personnel who, by possession installed and inclusive of stability requirements.
of a recognized degree, certificate, professional standing, or
3.2.18 load line—the load hoisting line.
skill, and who, by knowledge, training, and experience, have
3.2.19 lower boom (D)—the structural member, attached to
demonstrated the ability to deal with problems relating to the
the turntable, that supports the extensible boom or booms.
subject matter, the work, or the project.
3.2.20 manufacturer—one who originally constructs the
3.1.15 signal (emission signal)—a signal obtained by detec-
digger derrick.
tion of one or more acoustic emission events.
3.2.21 model—manufacturer’s designation for digger der-
3.1.16 For definitions of other terms in this test method,
rick specified.
refer to Definitions E610 and the EMI Nomenclature and
3.2.22 non-destructive testing—the examination by various
Specifications.
means of devices and their components without alteration of
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
original components, so that they may function as before.
3.2.1 auger—the hole-boring tool of the digger.
3.2.23 operator—the person actually engaged in the opera-
3.2.2 authorized person—a qualified person approved and
tion of the digger derrick.
assigned by the user to perform a specific type of duty or duties
3.2.24 outrigger cylinder—the hydraulic cylinder that ex-
or to be at a specific location or locations at the job site.
tends the outrigger.
3.2.3 boom angle indicator—a device that indicates the
3.2.25 outriggers (L)—the structural members that are ex-
angle between the boom and a horizontal plane.
tended or deployed to assist in stabilizing the mobile unit.
3.2.4 boom pin—the horizontal shaft about which the boom
3.2.26 pedestal (G)—the stationary base of the digger der-
pivots as it is raised or lowered relative to the turntable.
rick that supports the turntable.
3.2.5 boom tip sheave—the sheave, located at the tip of a
3.2.27 platform (H)—the optional personnel-carrying com-
boom, that carries the winch line.
ponent of a digger derrick, such as a bucket, basket, stand, or
3.2.6 capacity chart—a chart that indicates the load capacity
equivalent.
or rated capacity of the digger derrick, and by the choice of the
3.2.28 platform pin—the horizontal pin about which the
user reflects either the load capacity or the rated capacity.
optional platform rotates relative to the boom.
3.2.7 centerline of rotation—the vertical axis about which
3.2.29 structural components—those elements of a digger
the digger derrick rotates.
derrick that are subjected to stress during operation.
3.2.8 critical members—those components, members, or
3.2.30 turntable (F)—the structure above the rotation bear-
structures in a digger derrick whose failure would cause
catastrophic failure of the digger derrick system. ing that supports the booms.
3.2.31 ultimate strength—for materials that do not have a
3.2.9 design stress—the maximum stress at which the com-
ponent is designed to operate under conditions of rated clearly defined yield strength, the stress level at which failure
of a material will occur.
capacity.
3.2.10 digger—the mechanism that drives the auger. 3.2.32 upper boom (B)—the structural member that extends
the farthest, and that supports the boom tip sheave, or the
3.2.11 extension cylinder—the hydraulic cylinder or cylin-
optional platform, or both.
ders that extend the boom.
3.2.33 upper boom tip (A)—the end of the boom farthest
3.2.12 instability—a condition of a mobile unit in which the
from the turntable.
sum of the moments tending to overturn the unit is equal to or
exceeds the sum of the moments tending to resist overturning.
4. Summary of Test Method
3.2.13 intermediate boom (C) —structural member or
4.1 This test method consists of applying a predetermined
members that extend and are located between the upper and
load to a digger derrick while it is being monitored by sensors
lower booms.
that are sensitive to acoustic emissions (AE) caused by active
defects. These acoustic emissions can be generated by, but are
not limited to, the following: crack nucleation, movement, or
Letters in parentheses refer to the corresponding letters in Table 1 and Fig. 1. propagation in the metal components; or matrix crazing,
F1797 − 18 (2022)
delamination or fiber breakage of the fiber reinforced plastic 7. Acoustic Emission Instrumentation
(FRP) material, or both.
7.1 The AE instrument shall be capable of data acquisition
from discrete channels using 60 kHz and 150 kHz sensors. The
4.2 The digger derrick is loaded at a uniform rate until a
number of AE instrument channels shall be determined by the
predetermined load is reached, which is held for a period of
attenuation characteristics of the digger derrick in order to
time. The load is removed and the cycle is repeated. Acoustic
provide coverage of those components identified in Table 1.
emissions are monitored for the components being evaluated
Experience shows that a minimum of eight channels of data
during both cycles, and the data is reviewed.
acquisition is required. The instrument should be capable of
recording the following: time, events, counts, amplitude and
5. Significance and Use
load. Hard copy records shall be provided by the instrument or
5.1 This test method permits testing of the major compo-
available through a direct interface. Refer to the description of
nents of a digger derrick generated by the rapid release of
mandatory instrumentation characteristics in Annex A1.
energy from localized sources within the digger derrick under
NOTE 2—Annex A1 requires the use of a minimum of eight channels.
controlled loading. The energy releases occur during inten-
NOTE 3—The sensors used by most testing agencies are resonant at 60
tional application of a predetermined load. These energy
kHz for FRP components and 150 kHz for metal components. Selection of
releases can be monitored and interpreted by qualified indi- sensors other than these may significantly affect test results.
viduals. Acceptance/rejection criteria are beyond the scope of
8. Test Preparation
this test method. The test may be discontinued at any time to
investigate a particular area of concern, or to prevent a fault
8.1 Prior to the AE test, a visual evaluation of the digger
from continuing to ultimate failure of the digger derrick
derrick shall be performed to determine, as far as practical, that
resulting from the application of the test load.
the derrick is free from any condition that may prohibit the test
or adversely affect the test results.
5.2 This test method provides a means of detecting acoustic
emission sources that may be defects, irregularities, or both, 8.2 The components to be monitored in a digger derrick
affecting the structural integrity or intended use of the aerial
shall include, but not be limited to, those specified in Table 1.
personnel device. Additional channels and sensors may be used to supplement
the minimum test requirements and improve location resolu-
5.3 Significant sources of acoustic emission found with this
tion.
test method shall be evaluated by either more refined acoustic
8.3 Position the sensors on the FRP and metal portions of
emission test techniques or by other nondestructive methods
the components to be monitored. The extent of the coverage is
(visual, liquid penetrant, radiography, ultrasonic, magnetic
determined by the number of sensors used and the attenuation
particle, etc.). Other nondestructive methods may be required
characteristics of the individual components, and can be
in order to precisely locate defects in the digger derrick, and to
verified by a simulated AE technique as indicated in Guide
estimate their size. Additional tests are outside the scope of this
E976. Record the amplitude of the simulated AE source at a
test method.
distance of 12 in. (304 mm) from the sensor as a reference.
5.4 Defective areas found in digger derricks by this test
Continue to move the simulated AE source away from the
method should be repaired and retested as appropriate. Repair
sensor until the amplitude is no more than 15 dB less than the
procedure recommendations are outside the scope of this test
reference amplitude. This will establish the maximum effective
method. Repair procedure recommendations are outside the
coverage of the sensor.
scope of this test method.
8.4 The mounting of sensors shall be in accordance with
Practice E569 and E650. The couplant used shall not affect the
6. Personnel Qualifications
integrity of the digger derrick.
6.1 The test method shall be performed by qualified person-
NOTE 4—The couplant should be compatible with the digger derrick;
nel. Qualification shall be in accordance with an established
not a possible cause of contamination. The couplant should be completely
written program prepared by a person familiar with design,
removable from the surface after testing, leaving the original surface
intact.
manufacture, and operation of digger derricks. The program
shall include an established format of ASNT SNT-TC-1A for
training, qualification, and certification of personnel for con-
ducting AE testing.
TABLE 1
...