7 Advantages of drone inspections for monitoring ageing and corrosion on steel tanks

Discover the 7 most important advantages of Drone inspections for monitoring ageing and Corrosion on steel tanks. Drones offer precise early detection, safe access to hard-to-reach areas and cost-efficient maintenance. Thanks to modern drone technology, companies can avoid expensive repairs and extend the service life of their tanks. Tanks extend.

How drone inspections are revolutionising the maintenance and service life of steel tanks

Ageing and corrosion are unavoidable processesthat affect the structural integrity of steel tanks over time. Drone inspections offer a modern and efficient method of monitoring these processes and taking timely countermeasures.

While drones enable precise monitoring of empty tanks, ROVs offer an optimal solution for inspecting water tanks without interrupting operations.

Through the Early detection of damagethe Access to hard-to-reach areas and the opportunity, Monitor data in the long termdrones are revolutionising the Maintenance of steel tanks.

Companies can not only save costs, but also significantly improve the safety and service life of their systems.

1. early detection of age-related corrosion

Ageing steel tanks are particularly susceptible to various forms of corrosion, including Pitting, pitting and stress-induced cracking.

These processes slowly attack the material and can lead to significant structural problems over time. Drones offer the possibility of identifying these corrosion points at an early stage before major damage occurs.

The use of high-resolution cameras means that even the finest surface changes or cracks that would be barely visible to the naked eye can be recognised.

The Early detection of corrosion is the key to avoiding major structural damage.

2. inspection of areas that are difficult to access

In empty steel tanks, the tank tops, floor areas and transitions between tank sections are particularly susceptible to corrosion.

These areas can be difficult to reach and require complex access and safety measures to carry out a manual inspection. Drones allow access to these hard-to-reach areas without the need for complex scaffolding or working platforms.

With Water tanks offers the use of ROVs (Underwater drones) the option of not having to drain the tank contents during the inspection.

These drones can easily operate underwater and provide precise data on the condition of the tank.

3. high-precision imaging and data analysis

The detection of corrosion, especially in ageing tanks, requires precise monitoring of surface changes. Drones that are equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal sensors provide precise visual data that can prevent corrosion, Cracks, Material losses or damaged coatings.

This visual documentation enables in-depth analysis and helps maintenance teams to assess the severity of corrosion and plan appropriate measures. This ensures that minor problems are quickly rectified before they lead to costly repairs.

4. safer inspection without risks for employees

When inspecting empty tanks, it is often necessary for inspectors to enter hazardous environments to carry out a detailed inspection. Drones offer a safe alternative here, as they can be operated remotely and inspectors do not have to go near potentially dangerous areas. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

In cases where water tanks need to be checked ROVs directly into the water, which also makes the inspection process safer and more efficient. The inspectors remain on the surface while the drone collects the necessary data.

5. long-term monitoring and documentation

Corrosion is a gradual process that can develop over years. A one-off inspection only provides a snapshot of the condition of a tank. However, drone inspections offer the possibility of regularly recording and storing data on the condition of a tank.

The collected data can be used to create 3D models or digital twins that provide a detailed Long-term monitoring enable.

This helps operators to analyse the progress of corrosion and determine the right time for maintenance measures.

6. fast response time when damage is detected

With the flexibility and speed offered by drones, companies can respond quickly to any damage detected. Traditional inspection methods often require extensive preparation and longer downtimes, whereas drone inspections can be carried out in a short time and without major preparations.

Thanks to drone technology, the maintenance teams can make immediate decisions and take preventative measures to rectify the damage before it gets worse. This reduces the risk of a complete breakdown and increases the service life of the tanks.

7. cost efficiency through preventive maintenance

The inspection of steel tanks has traditionally been associated with high costs, especially when specialised equipment or access techniques were required. Drones offer a cost-effective alternative that not only lowers inspection costs, but also reduces expenditure on safety measures and technical aids.

Because drones can be used more frequently and without extensive preparation, they enable regular inspections and preventive maintenance that can prevent expensive emergency repairs or the complete replacement of a tank.

This leads to a considerable reduction in the Maintenance costs and a longer service life for the tanks.