Boom Inspection Services

Quality Concrete Pumps, LLC. (QCP) Is expanding its certified boom inspection services.  As buyers and sellers of concrete boom pumps we understand the value in a thorough, accurate, and complete inspection prior to buying and selling a concrete pump.  We are happy to perform any pre-purchase / pre-sale / pre-trade inspection you may need. 

In addition to the importance of inspecting equipment prior to purchase or sale, a boom inspection as part of a maintenance program can provide extremely valuable information, guide maintenance decisions and inform customers to proper performance and wear of equipment.  Regardless of all these benefits, the primary purpose is to ensure the safe operation and structural integrity of the machine in order to keep people safe.  Below you will find some answers to frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is getting a boom inspection law?

Under federal law, employees are entitled to a safe workplace. As an employer we must provide a workplace free of known health and safety hazards. This includes the right to work on machines that are safe.  One way to accomplish this is through a periodic boom inspection by a factory certified boom inspector.

When should I get my boom inspected?

Periodic inspections are done at set intervals and must be performed by a qualified person (certified boom inspector). The periodic inspection intervals for concrete pump trucks and placing booms per ASME B03.27 are as follows:

• First 5 years – every 2,000 working hours or, at least once per year, whichever occurs first

• 5 through 10 years – every 1,000 working hours or, at least once per year, whichever occurs first

• 10 years and older – every 500 working hours or, at least once per year, whichever occurs first

Does the boom inspector have to be a welder?

No, the boom inspector does not have to be a welder.  Factory certified independent inspectors are able to inspect machines and, in many situations, find that no repairs are needed.  In the event that a repair is needed and a factory certified welder is required, the boom inspector will document the item that needs repaired and submit a weld repair procedure request form. The factory will respond with the recommended procedure for repair as well as any additional parts that may be needed to complete the repair.  Parts can then be ordered and a certified welder can be scheduled.

What’s involved in a periodic boom inspection?

For periodic inspections, the concrete pump will be required to be out of service during the inspection—a few hours to a full day, depending on the size and condition of the machine. We understand that every minute counts when it comes to billable time and that’s why QCP will work with your dispatcher and service manager to minimize any impact to your day to day operations.

The inspection is very detailed and focuses in-depth on the boom and structural components of the machine.  The process consists of both visual and hands-on inspection of every structural component on a 100-point checklist.  General items on the checklist include: 

·       The safety decals, operator & parts manuals, handrails, steps, boom straps & rests, remote box functionality, hopper grate. 

·       The front and rear outrigger tubes, pads, locks, pins and safety devices are checked to make sure they are operational. 

·       The main column or turret is inspected inside and out and the tower’s bearing(s) are measured for deflection and wear.

·       Next the boom is configured so that each section’s pins, hydraulic lines, joints and guide levers are assessed for corrosion and structural damage.

·       The mounting hardware, clamps and hose condition are also examined on the delivery pipeline.

·       Anywhere from 50 to over 100 digital photos of the machine are taken during the inspection to properly document and communicate what requires maintenance or replacement.

How do I know if a boom inspector is qualified and certified?

Contact the manufacture:

Schwing America, Inc.                                                           Putzmeister America, Inc.

Myron Morehouse                                                                Don Gerou

Field Service Supervisor & Technical Support               Product Performance Manager

Office: 651-653-5438                                                           Office: 262-884-6342

Cell: 651-202-6375                                                               Cell: 262-770-0438

[email protected]                                               [email protected]

How much does a boom inspection cost?

Cost varies depending on the size and condition of the machine, number of machines, timeframe and availability of the machines that need inspected as well as the location and travel expenses.  QCP prices for boom inspections range from $1000.00 to $1750.00 but there are several factors to consider so please contact Joseph (cell: 772-263-933, email: [email protected]) with your specific information for a more accurate quote.

What’s the difference between a factory boom inspector and an independent boom inspector?

Factory boom inspectors are employed by the manufacturer and follow a very specific set of criteria, only inspecting what the factory requires.  As an independent boom inspector, QCP also follows the same criteria but can customize the inspection based upon the customer needs.  Inspecting additional items and performing additional tests to deliver a more complete and custom inspection to help you better manage your fleet and maximize the information gathered.

How do I schedule a boom inspection and what information will I need?

To schedule a boom inspection simply click, call or email the number of machines you need inspected, year, model and serial number of the machines, how quickly you need them inspected, location and availability of the equipment.  A QCP representative will contact you to confirm details and discuss the most convenient time to inspect your machine without interrupting your ability to service your customers.

There are three simple ways to schedule a boom inspection:

1– Click this link and submit the boom inspection request form

                            2 – Call 772-263-9337 with the information

                           3– Email the boom inspection request form to [email protected]

Are there any other benefits to getting a boom inspection?

Yes!  Many insurance companies view periodic boom inspections as a sign of a well-maintained fleet.  Employees are assured they are operating safe equipment and owners can feel secure in knowing they are providing high quality, safe concrete pumping services.

Quality Concrete Pumps, LLC.

Joseph Bynum

Schwing Certified Independent Boom Inspector

Putzmeister Certified Independent Boom Inspector

Cell: 772-263-9337

[email protected]