This test method provides a means of evaluating acoustic emissions generated by the rapid release of energy from localized sources within an aerial personnel device under controlled loading. The resultant energy releases occur during intentional application of a controlled predetermined load. These energy releases can be monitored and interpreted by qualified individuals.

This test method permits testing of the major components of an aerial personnel device under controlled loading. This test method utilizes objective criteria for evaluation and may be discontinued at any time to investigate a particular area of concern or prevent a fault from continuing to ultimate failure.

This test method provides a means of detecting acoustic emission sources that may be defects or irregularities, or both, affecting the structural integrity or intended use of the aerial personnel device.

Sources of acoustic emission found with this test method shall be evaluated by either more refined acoustic emission test methods or other nondestructive techniques (visual, liquid penetrant, radiography, ultrasonics, magnetic particle, etc.). Other nondestructive tests may be required to locate defects present in aerial personnel devices.

Defective areas found in aerial personnel devices by this test method should be repaired and retested as appropriate. Repair procedure recommendations are outside the scope of this test method.

1.1 This test method describes a procedure for non-destructive testing using acoustic emission (AE) testing for insulated and non-insulated aerial personnel devices which do not have a supplemental load handling attachment.

1.1.1 Equipment Covered—This test method covers the following types of vehicle-mounted insulated aerial personnel devices:

1.1.1.1 Extensible boom aerial personnel devices,

1.1.1.2 Articulating boom aerial personnel devices, and

1.1.1.3 Any combination of 1.1.1.1 and 1.1.1.2.

1.1.2 Equipment Not Covered—This test method does not cover any of the following equipment:

Material-handling aerial devices,

Digger-derricks with platform, and

Cranes with platform.

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, ultrasonics, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, and visual inspection. 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.

Note 1—This test method is not intended to be a stand alone NDT method for the verification of the structural integrity of an aerial device. Other NDT methods should be used to supplement the results.

1.3 The values given in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The SI units given in parentheses are for information only.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.