Intact Stability Code 2008
Use of pendulums and/or inclinometers
When
performing the inclining test according to the IS-code 2008 the position of NSI is
as follows.
The angle of list shall be measured by preferably three, but not less than two
pendulums.
In lieu of one of these pendulums another instrument
may be used, such as an inclinometer or a U-tube.
Pendulums,
U-tubes and inclinometers shall be used in conformity with Annex 1 of the IS-code (Detailed guidance for the conduct
of an inclining test).
In the IS-code Part B, there is some further guidance on this matter:
“8.2.2.9 The use of three pendulums is recommended but a minimum of
two should be used to allow identification of bad readings at any one pendulum
station. They should each be located in an area protected from the wind. One or more
pendulums may be substituted by other measuring devices (U-tubes or inclinometers)
at the discretion of the Administration. Alternative measuring devices should not be
used to reduce the minimum inclining angles recommended in 8.2.2.8.
The use of an inclinometer or U-tube should be considered in each separate case.
It is recommended that inclinometers or other measuring devices only be used in
conjunction with at least one pendulum.”
If however the RO has the opinion that angles can be measured by use of
inclinometers alone, NSI is willing to reconsider this position. In that case the RO
is to present a sound proposal to demonstrate that the inclinometers in question are
sufficiently reliable and will give a result that is at least as accurate as
pendulums.
Part B of the IS-code 2008, Annex I, par. 2.6 gives
minimal requirements for such an instrument. NSI is not aware of more detailed
performance standards for such instruments.
Although it is not
written for inclinometers, the essential requirements as mentioned in Annex I of EU
Directive 2004/22/EU on measuring instruments could serve as a guideline.