Client: Industrial Facility in Leeds
Location: Leeds, United Kingdom
Service: Confined Space Drone Stack Inspection with Elios 3
Project Overview
DJM Aerial Solutions was commissioned to perform a detailed internal inspection of a newly commissioned waste gas stack at an industrial facility in Leeds. The inspection aimed to validate the structural integrity, alignment, and internal condition of the stack post-installation.
Traditionally, inspections of such vertical confined spaces would require extensive scaffolding or rope access, involving significant downtime, safety risks, and high operational costs. DJM Aerial Solutions utilised the Elios 3 drone—a specialised UAV designed explicitly for confined space environments—to efficiently complete this inspection safely and cost-effectively.
Challenges of Traditional Stack Inspections
Traditional inspection methods present significant limitations:
- High Costs: Extensive scaffolding or rope access setup is expensive and resource-intensive.
- Safety Risks: Manual confined-space entry increases risks associated with working at height and exposure to hazardous conditions.
- Operational Downtime: Traditional methods require lengthy shutdown periods, impacting productivity.
- Limited Data Quality: Manual inspections are prone to oversight and inconsistent data capture.
DJM Aerial Solutions’ Approach
To overcome these challenges, DJM Aerial Solutions deployed the Elios 3 drone, specifically engineered for GPS-denied and confined space environments:
- 4K Stabilised Camera: Provided high-resolution visual data to inspect internal linings, welds, and structural integrity.
- 360° Lighting: Ensured clear visibility within the dark, enclosed stack.
- Integrated LiDAR Sensor: Captured precise spatial data, producing accurate 3D models.
- Collision-Tolerant Design: The carbon-fibre cage enabled safe navigation close to structural surfaces without damage.
Inspection Process and Results
Objectives:
- Validate internal conditions and structural integrity
- Confirm correct installation and compliance
- Capture detailed visual and 3D spatial data
Methodology:
The Elios 3 drone was internally deployed, inspecting the entire horizontal and vertical length of the stack within 2 hours. No scaffolding or confined-space entry was required, significantly improving safety and efficiency.
Findings:
- No Structural Defects: Inspection confirmed no visible defects, corrosion, or lining failures.
- Minor Operational Debris: Identified minor soot accumulation, typical for early-stage operational usage.
- Comprehensive Data Capture: Generated high-quality HD video footage, detailed photographic records, and an annotated LiDAR point cloud for baseline reference.
Benefits and Advantages
The Elios 3 drone inspection provided substantial advantages over traditional methods:
- Enhanced Safety: Eliminated confined space entry, significantly reducing risk to personnel.
- Cost Efficiency: Eliminated costs associated with scaffolding, rope access, and prolonged downtime.
- Rapid Turnaround: Inspection, data processing, and reporting completed within 48 hours.
- Comprehensive Documentation: High-resolution visual data and precise 3D spatial models were delivered, enabling informed future maintenance planning.
Applications for Elios 3 Stack Inspections
The use of the Elios 3 drone is particularly effective for:
- Post-commissioning inspections
- Routine monitoring and condition assessments
- Emergency inspections
- Shutdown verifications
- Assessing refractory and lining integrity
Client Satisfaction and Ongoing Relationship
The client expressed high satisfaction with the detailed insights and rapid data delivery provided by DJM Aerial Solutions. This inspection demonstrated DJM Aerial Solutions’ capability and established them as a trusted partner for future inspections.
Why Choose DJM Aerial Solutions?
DJM Aerial Solutions brings over a decade of experience in engineering and remote inspections. As CAA-approved and confined-space certified professionals, we ensure safe, comprehensive, and actionable insights into asset conditions across industrial sectors.
Call-to-Action (CTA)
- Contact Us Today: Schedule your confined space drone inspection with DJM Aerial Solutions.
- Request a Quote: Discover how the Elios 3 can revolutionise your inspection process safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
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