Scope

These guidelines have been developed by a TAPPI Task Group to provide information regarding nondestructive testing (NDT) of reel spool journals. They provide background information about reel spool failures, inspection, and design/re-design as well as considerations for repair/replacement.

Reel spool journal failures have been a concern in the paper industry for many years. Although they are infrequent, the consequences of failure can be severe and include: significant physical damage to equipment and injury or death to personnel. This is due to a high level of kinetic energy reel spools have while rotating and they are very heavy when loaded.

This document provides information to assist owners in establishing an inspection program to detect cracking and prevent reel spool journal failures. It contains information on failure location, failure mechanism, inspection frequency, nondestructive testing (NDT) methods and techniques, journal materials, etc. It should be applicable to reel spool journals of all sizes and the general concepts may be applicable to other journals and shafts.