Background
Inspection and maintenance are essential for the safe operation and long-term reliability of any power generation plant.
Currently, many of these tasks are carried out manually, often requiring personnel to enter confined spaces or work at elevated heights. Inspecting large, confined areas such as the cyclone typically involves multiple permits, scaffolding setup, or planning for rope access – all of which can take days or even weeks to organise.
The Elios 3 drone, with its ability to fly safely and stably in confined spaces and at height, enables inspectors to conduct visual inspections remotely, eliminating the need for physical entry. In addition to enhancing safety, the Elios 3’s quick deployment – without the need for scaffolding – significantly boosts productivity and reduces costs. This ease of deployment also makes it possible to carry out more frequent inspections.
During its inspections, the Elios 3 creates 3D internal maps of the cyclone in real time. Any defects or points of interest (POIs) discovered are clearly marked and localised on these detailed 3D models.
Benefits of using the ELIOS 3
- Safety; Remote Access using drones; Drone Operator stays outside of Cyclone
- Speed; no scaffolding or rope access required
- Ease of deployment
- Frequency of Inspection
- 3D visualisation and Repeatability
Summary of Inspection
This Proof-of-Concept (POC) inspection of the powerplant cyclone was completed in just three flights, taking only two hours from mobilisation to demobilisation. The Elios 3, equipped with a 4K camera, captured clear, high-resolution images and video detailing the condition of the cyclone. The 3D map generated during the inspection precisely identifies and localises any defects or points of interest (POIs).
