FULLY AUTONOMOUS UAV USAGE FOR PIPELINE INSPECTION AND SURVEY
EMPIT builds and develops its self-developed drones for the purpose of non-destructive testing (NDT). This ensures that we can inspect pipelines even in the most difficult terrain, as ground conditions and surface structure are irrelevant for inspection results.
With the use of drones for pipeline inspection, we can survey and inspect pipelines buried in very steep slopes, crossing rivers or laid in dangerous regions around the world. The drones are able to find the pipeline automatically and navigate the pipeline route without requiring any prior knowledge of the pipeline route.
How does an air-based inspection work?
Our team will arrive at the inspection site with a special vehicle carrying all the necessary equipment. The operation of the pipeline can remain unchanged and no modifications to the pipeline are required. Immediately upon arrival, the inspection setup will begin and will typically be completed within one hour. The inspection drone is then launched and flies over the pipeline automatically.
During the inspection, the drone maneuvers completely autonomously over the top of the pipeline. A drone pilot is not required to control the drone. Artificial intelligence (AI) is used to control the drone and ensure that the raw data captured is of the required quality. No prior knowledge of the pipeline route is required for a successful inspection, minimizing planning time and staff capacity commitment.
Technical Specifications of air-based CMI:
Flight time
45 - 60 minutes
Inspection speed
3 kilometres per hour
Flight mode
Autopilot
Operating Temperature
-10°C bis 40°C
Flight height
1-3 metres
WALL THICKNESS | DIAMETER | MEDIUM | GRADE OF STEEL | PRESSURE | OUT OF SERVICE
No limitations
INSPECTION DISTANCE
Not limited
It’s for a reason that we are amongst Germany’s Top 100 innovators. Because our mission is to overcome these inspection challenges and, together with our clients, continuously improve the safety and reliability of all pipelines.