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Inspections without borders: Drones and robots at the forefront of inspection in the oil industry

Carlos Alvarez.

Published: July 22, 2023

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Author: Ing. Carlos Álvarez, July 22, 2023.

Introduction

The oil industry is constantly evolving and is constantly seeking to improve its operations to increase efficiency and reduce risks associated with oil exploration, production and transportation. One of the rapidly developing fields that has revolutionized the way inspections are carried out is the use of drones and robots . These technological devices are making it possible to carry out inspections in remote and hard-to-reach areas, which not only reduces operating costs, but also improves worker safety.

In this article, we will describe how drones and robots have positioned themselves as leaders in the field of inspection within the oil industry.

The oil industry takes advantage of the use of drones and robots — Figure 1 – Use of drones and robots bring great benefits to the oil industry

1. Drones in oil inspection

Efficiency and speed : Drones have proven to be a highly efficient tool for inspecting oil facilities, pipelines, and offshore platforms. They can cover large areas in a short time, providing a complete view of the infrastructure in a matter of hours compared to traditional methods that required days or even weeks.

Access to remote and dangerous areas : Some oil facilities are located in remote or dangerous areas for humans. Drones can fly over these hard-to-reach terrain, allowing for detailed inspections without compromising worker safety.

Visual and thermographic inspections : The drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal sensors that can detect anomalies in the facilities, such as leaks or hot spots. This helps identify problems before they become major failures, allowing for a quick and accurate response.

2. Underwater robots for marine inspections

Safe Subsea Exploration : Offshore oil rigs require regular inspections for wear and corrosion on submerged structures. Underwater robots can dive to extreme depths and explore the infrastructure without exposing divers to potential danger.

Environmental monitoring : Underwater robots are also useful for monitoring the marine environment. They can collect data on water quality, marine life, and pollution levels, allowing oil companies to maintain a more sustainable and responsible approach.

Real-time inspections : Data collected by underwater robots is transmitted in real time, allowing engineers and technicians on land to analyze the information immediately and make informed decisions for necessary maintenance and repairs.

3. Challenges and considerations

Regulations and Safety : As drone and robot technology advances, so do the regulations for their use. It is essential that the oil industry comply with local and international regulations and maintain high safety standards to avoid accidents and unnecessary risks.

Training and skills : The implementation of drones and robots requires trained personnel to operate and maintain these devices. Companies need to invest in the proper training to ensure staff can use these technologies effectively.

Integration with existing systems : Incorporating drones and robots into inspection processes may require integration with already existing systems and software in the oil industry. A smooth transition and efficient data management are crucial to get the most out of these technologies.

Conclusion

Drones and robots have transformed the way inspections are carried out in the oil industry, offering borderless efficiency, safety and precision. These technologies allow oil companies to reduce operating costs, improve worker safety, and increase the effectiveness of operations. As technology continues to advance, the role of drones and robots in oil inspection is expected to continue to grow, leading the industry towards a smarter and more sustainable future.