Proof Load Testing Water Bags
Hydro-Wates maintains a substantial inventory of different types of proof load testing water bags, including crane testing water bags, cylinder shaped water bags, and pillow style water bags. Each type of proof load testing water bag has undergone extensive inspection before being released to the field.
Our equipment packages conform to globally accepted engineering standards developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), International Standards Organization (ISO), and others. In addition, use of our equipment allows customers to meet the regulatory load testing requirements of OSHA, IMO and SOLAS.
Crane Testing Water Bags
Technical Features:
- Weight range from 2-50 tons
- Lightweight PVC material
- Can be used in groups to perform tests up to 500,000 lbs and higher
- Easily foldable for more economic transportation
Typical Applications:
- Crane testing
- Derrick testing
- Winch testing
- Construction
- Vessel Tests
Proof load testing power plant bridge crane to 85 tons.
Cylinder Water Bags
Typical Applications:
- Gangway testing
- Lifeboat testing
- Rooftop systems
Technical Features:
- 375 kg weight
- Lightweight PVC material
- Smaller size allows testing in low-space areas
375kg water bags proof load testing lifeboat davits
Pillow Water Bags
Technical Features:
- 500 kg weight
- Lightweight PVC material
- Small size and square shape makes it ideal for testing in low headspace areas
Typical Applications:
- Rooftop Systems
- Underwater salvage
Filling water bags in test of roofing system.
Frequently Asked Questions
A proof load test applies a load that exceeds the equipment's normal working load limit (WLL), generally in the range of 10% to 25% over, to verify structural integrity before equipment enters or returns to service. A standard load test only confirms rated capacity. Hydro-Wates' water bags are built specifically for this elevated standard.
Through calibrated load cells or calibrated water meters, which allow for an infinite number of specific test loads to be achieved to meet equipment-specific requirements. Water meters are particularly useful for verifying load water volume in cylinder-style water bags and low-headroom crane testing applications. All Hydro-Wates load cells and water meters come with calibration certificates renewed annually.
- Crane Testing Water Bags: vessel, offshore, bridge cranes, derricks, and winches
- Cylinder Water Bags (375 kg each): lifeboat davits, gangways, and low-headroom environments
- Pillow Water Bags (500 kg each): rooftop systems, floor load testing, and underwater salvage
Not sure? Hydro-Wates can engineer a custom rigging arrangement for your specific structure.
Water drains; a multi-ton solid mass does not drop. If a crane's hoisting system or brakes show signs of compromise during the test, the bags can be drained in place with no need to lower the load in a hazardous area. This controlled failure mode is one of the primary safety reasons water bags are preferred over solid steel weights.
Yes. A complete test requires water pumps, calibrated load cells, water meters, manifolds, shackles, master links, hoses, and lifting beams. Hydro-Wates stocks all of it for rent or sale, so everything ships together from one supplier with no need to coordinate multiple vendors.
For most operators, renting is the smarter choice. Water bags require ongoing inspection, storage, and recertification between uses. Renting from Hydro-Wates means equipment arrives already inspected, certified, and field-ready. Purchasing is available for operators running high-frequency, recurring test programs.
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