Drone Inspection of Cargo Jetty for a Polyhalite Mining and Supply Company

DJM Aerial Solutions’ Approach

DJM Aerial Solutions proposed an alternative solution using advanced drone technology, which provided a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective inspection method. Our drones were able to perform a thorough close visual inspection of each of the jetty’s 45 individual bays using a combination of our confined space drone and external inspection drone equipped with LiDar and long-range cameras.

By utilising drones, we were able to:

• Eliminate the need for scaffolding: This reduced the overall cost of the inspection from £1 million GBP to just £10,000 GBP.
• Avoid dangerous shipping and docking operations: Drone technology allowed us to inspect the jetty without risking personnel safety or damaging the client property
• Minimise downtime: The entire inspection was completed without interrupting client operations, ensuring that the client could continue product loadout and shipping without disruption.
• Capture high-quality data: Our drones provided detailed, consistent, and usable close inspection data of the entire asset, enabling the client to assess the condition of the jetty comprehensively.

Cost and Risk Comparison:

Using drones for this inspection resulted in massive cost savings and risk reduction when compared to traditional methods. Here’s a breakdown:

• Traditional Scaffolding Method:
  • Cost: £1 million GBP (not including lost revenue from the jetty being out of service)
  • Risk: High risk of accidents during scaffolding erection, potential damage to the jetty, and significant downtime.
• Inspection by RIB/FRC:
  • Cost: Similar to scaffolding when considering vessel hire, personnel, and safety precautions.
  • Risk: Significant risk to personnel due to unpredictable currents, shipping movements, and the potential for men overboard.
• Drone Inspection by DJM Aerial Solutions:
  • Cost: £10,000 GBP
  • Risk: Minimal risk to personnel, no disruption to operations, and no need for scaffolding or hazardous boat navigation.

Results and Benefits:

• Cost Savings: By opting for drone inspection, the client saved over 90% in costs compared to the traditional scaffolding method.
• Improved Safety: The inspection was completed without putting any personnel in harm’s way, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
• Minimal Disruption: The jetty remained fully operational throughout the inspection, ensuring no loss of revenue or production delays.
• High-Quality Data: Our drones captured high-resolution visual data, enabling the client to accurately assess the condition of the jetty and make informed decisions about any necessary maintenance.

Pros and Cons of Drone Inspection vs. Traditional Methods

Pros of Drone Inspection:

• Cost-Effective: Drone inspections are substantially cheaper than traditional methods, offering up to 99% cost savings.
• Enhanced Safety: No personnel are required to enter dangerous environments, reducing the risk of injury or accidents.
• Faster Inspection Time: Drones can complete inspections much quicker than traditional methods, often reducing the time by up to 50%.
• Minimised Downtime: Facilities and assets can remain operational during drone inspections, preventing any loss of production or revenue.
• Comprehensive Data: High-resolution imaging and real-time data capture provide accurate and actionable insights.

Cons of Drone Inspection:

• Limited Flight Time: Drones are subject to battery life limitations, which may require multiple flights for larger projects.
• Weather-Dependent: Inspections can be delayed by adverse weather conditions such as high winds or heavy rain.
• Initial Equipment Costs: Although drone inspections are more cost-effective in the long term, the upfront investment in UAV technology can be high for companies new to drones.
• Data Processing Time: While drones capture large amounts of data quickly, post-processing and analysis of data, especially LiDAR or thermal imagery, can take time.