Both RPA and CPM have their own set of specifications, although the CPM ones are a lot more lenient than RPA ones. The main difference between the two is that RPA inspections are usually limited to areas that are inaccessible by other methods while in the case of CPM they can be performed in places inaccessible by any other method.
Most of the major equipment manufacturers have adopted CPM designation because it is easier to implement and maintain. The other benefit is that the inspection results are much more reliable compared to RPA inspections. In addition, the inspection reports are generally accurate and can be easily read by engineers.
In a CPM inspection, the inspectors first measure the load-bearing capacity or the load on each one of the load bearing assemblies (FLAs) of the machine. These are usually a pair of columns or a single column depending on the model. Then, the load bearing capacity of the machine is determined from these measurements.
The next step of the inspection is to determine the load on the load bearing plates. Once this is done, it is then determined if the load bearing plate should be raised or lowered to ensure the stability of the machine. If this is done, it is then decided if it is necessary to install the additional FLAs in the future.
The last step of the inspection is to determine the condition of the flanges. This is normally done by rotating them by a particular angle. In most cases, they are not required to be rotated once they are set.
The results of the inspection are then compared with the requirements of the manufacturer. In most cases, it is necessary to conduct repeat inspections when the equipment is changed in order to make sure that all the requirements have been met.
RPA and CPM are the most common inspection codes used in the United States of America and European Union for heavy equipment inspection purposes. Both types of inspection can be performed on the same type of equipment by different inspectors.
However, there are specific differences in how they are done. A CPM inspection is usually performed by qualified people. They will need to complete a CPM inspection manual before they can begin the actual inspection. Usually, they also require the use of a machine called a torsion balance.
A CPM inspection is usually a lot more complicated and is usually more expensive than an RPA inspection. In general, the only difference is the type of machine they are using. Since both types of inspections involve the same set of testing methods, both types will need to be performed by the same person in order to make sure that the test results are accurate.
While the former requires only the inspection of a single frame, the latter involves several frames. In addition, a torsion balance is not required. It is also mandatory to include an operator in a CPM inspection because a torsion balance is needed to control the rotation process. A torsion balance is available in the market that allows the operator to control the rotation process through a cable.
An important part of both CPM and RPA inspection is the certification of the results of the tests that were done. Certification is important because it proves that the equipment was inspected properly. If the results of the test show a fault, it should be repaired immediately so that it cannot cause a malfunction later.
For CPM inspections, it is necessary to submit a certificate to the manufacturer before they are used in manufacturing operations. In the case of a defect, the inspection will be delayed or stopped until the manufacturer receives the certificate. The certificate is necessary in case the manufacturer has doubts about the test results.