The Elios 3 UT was used to inspect the inside of a stack, eliminating the need to remove insulation from the outside. This approach provided accurate and repeatable results, ideal for routine inspections. Access The Elios 3 could access the interior of the stack without requiring any external work. There was no need for specialists to remove insulation, saving time and reducing risk. Safety The team conducted flights from a warm indoor area, avoiding dangerous high-altitude work in cold outdoor conditions. This significantly improved safety and comfort. Adaptability The Elios 3 UT could be operated beyond visual line of sight, allowing for UT measurements in areas where external inspection was not feasible. Reporting The data collected was clear and detailed, providing valuable insights into the condition of the stack. This information can be used for record-keeping and planning future maintenance tasks. Industrial stacks require regular inspections to ensure safe operation. Visual inspections are typically performed several times a year, while more comprehensive internal and external structural assessments are done every 3 to 5 years. These checks help identify potential issues early and support preventive maintenance strategies. When a visual inspection reveals signs of damage—such as corrosion or cracks—an ultrasonic testing (UT) is often needed. Using ultrasonic thickness measurement (UTM), asset managers can assess the condition of the stack against existing records and industry standards. Accurate UT data helps determine if the stack is safe to operate or if urgent repairs are necessary. Osprey Integrity provides UAV services that reduce operational risks and offer cost savings to clients. Their work includes major asset inspections for companies like BC Hydro, Suncor, Cenovus, Canadian Natural Resources, and Holcim across Canada and the U.S. In 2023, they were tasked with inspecting an industrial stack at an oil and gas facility in Northern Alberta, managed by Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNRL). The stack was part of a once-through steam generator (OTSG), which converts water into superheated steam. The stack served as an exhaust for waste gas and reached temperatures up to 180°C. Due to the insulation covering the stack, traditional methods required removing the insulation and sending technicians up using cranes or aerial platforms, which was both time-consuming and risky. Instead, Osprey Integrity opted for a drone-based UT inspection using the Elios 3. This method allowed them to gather data from the inside of the stack without disturbing the external insulation, reducing risk and improving efficiency. Traditional UT methods involved removing insulation and manually measuring the thickness, which was labor-intensive and exposed workers to harsh conditions. With the Elios 3, the process was streamlined, and the same results were achieved in a fraction of the time. The Cockpit app allows manual adjustments of gain and gates during the inspection The goal of the project was to demonstrate how a UT drone inspection compared to traditional methods. The Elios 3, equipped with its UT payload, was able to enter the stack through a small access point, eliminating the need for cranes or elevated work platforms. This reduced both risk and time spent on setup. Once inside, the drone pilot navigated to the area of concern and began taking measurements. The Elios 3 is designed to withstand contact, making it ideal for UT applications. It successfully took measurements at four points in different directions, completing the task efficiently and accurately. The UT probe used was a prototype of the final Elios 3 UT payload, featuring a magnetized hood for secure attachment After the flight, the results were immediately shared with the client. The entire process took less than an hour, far faster than traditional methods, and did not disturb the insulation on the outside of the stack. Osprey Integrity highlighted several key advantages of the Elios 3 UT that made the inspection fast, efficient, and reliable: The Elios 3 UT payload was launched in March 2024, with deliveries expected later in the year. It offers a powerful solution that improves safety, reduces costs, and saves time without compromising on data accuracy. As the payload expands the capabilities of the Elios 3, it will become a vital tool for non-destructive testing across multiple industries. Osprey Integrity recently presented at Flyability’s User Conference in March 2024, sharing their positive experience with the Elios 3 UT during its testing phase. Their success with CNRL highlights the potential of this technology to revolutionize drone-based NDT. With two years of experience in drone UT inspections, Osprey Integrity sees the Elios 3 UT as a game-changer in the field. Discover more about the Elios 3 UT payload Stainless Steel Parts,Stainless Steel Aluminum Brass Metal Parts,Stainless Steel Parts Cnc Machined Parts,Turning Optical Parts Shenzhen Yuheng Precision Machinery Co., Ltd. , https://www.yhcncmachiningparts.comDrone Inspection of a Stack with the Elios 3 UT
Key Benefits at a Glance
Why a Service Provider Chose a UT Drone Inspection
The stack being inspected had protective insulation on the outside
How the Elios 3 UT Conducted Ultrasonic Testing
The Elios 3 entered the stack through a small opening
What Makes the Elios 3 UT Payload So Beneficial?
The articulated arm of the UT probe can be adjusted for different inspection needs
Learn More About the Elios 3 UT Payload