Category III checks not only have the potential to improve an engineering design, but can also be key to preventing major calculation oversights.
That is the view of HBPW engineer, Tommy Ng, who has completed the Cat III checks on the designs for a new bridge that will carry the westbound three lane single carriageway of the A45 between junction 6 of the M42 and the NEC / Birmingham Airport interchange.
“Level III of the Cat system of checks is probably the most stringent, requiring third party checks for mechanical and structural equipment, as well as independent design verifications.
“HBPW was invited by Carillion to overview the design drawings of WSP’s Birmingham office for the A45 job. The mandatory checks are a valuable exercise but can take many weeks to complete because, simply put, I have to look at their work, produce my own models, compare the two, identify the differences and, if necessary, make recommendations.
“By involving WSP’s Leeds office further down the line, I am pleased to say that the design drawings were much improved illustrating, yet again, the value of having independent eyes examine a specific job,” added Tommy.
A Category III check is usually required on moving bridges, highway structures and is often compulsory on a large range of equipment in the nuclear and offshore industries for devices such as cranes, lifting beams and bearings.
It involves taking the final detail design drawings and functional specification, and developing independent load cases, calculations and analyses. By utilising a totally independent party to carry out a check, clients can then be confident that the design is suitable for its intended purpose, and also viable for manufacture.