field inspection of 1912 crane rail system

huangyhg

field inspection of 1912 crane rail system
i have been asked to preform a field inspection of a crane rail system that was constructed in 1912.  i have the original design/shop drawings.  i have some experience inspection buildings and i do have a copy of the asce publication for the inspection of buildings as well as aisc's book on properties of old structural steel shapes.
does anyone have any advice for an inspection of a structure this old?  is there anything special to look for?  does 95 year old structural steel break down?

what is the purpose and scope of your inspection?  are you re-commissioning to new or reliable loading?  be very careful to ensure that your scope and level of responsibility are fully recorded and you adhere to them!
the steel does not breakdown, however i have found that it will often have been welded during subsequent modifications.  unfortunately is it common for steels from back then to not be readily weldable...  this leads to some interesting complications, but hopefully you won't face any.
the rivits should be checked for fatigue loosening, the steel itself should be inspected extensively for any signs of fatigue as well.  repetitive loading after all this time would be my first concern.
i would really love to get my hands on a copy of the drawings;  if you are able to scan them, would you be willing to post them?  i collect old structural drawings both for professional curiosity and knowledge.
i have extensive experience with existing structures, coupled with a good number of inherited texts and a fairly good library of articles and reports regarding existing conditions.  i'll keep an eye on this thread;  please let all of us know if something troublesome/interesting comes up, or if you just need some help.
cheers,
mo quinn
b.eng (carleton)
working in new zealand, thinking of my snow covered home...
youngstructural:
good advice.  the drawings are posted
youngstructural:
good advice.  i cannot get the files to upload.  will try tomorrow.
happy to help bernie... let me know if you're still having trouble posting the drawing;  i'll give you a ftp site to upload them to, if you're still willing.
i'll be quite keen to hear how the inspection goes as well.
cheers,
ys
b.eng (carleton)
working in new zealand, thinking of my snow covered home...
i also collect old drawings and would be very intersted in obtaining a copy.
youngstructural:
let me have a ftp site.  can't upload here.