In early 2025, Oceaneering multi-skilled technicians completed a tank inspection scope for Shell using the ScoutDI Scout 137 Drone System, marking the first drone inspection of hull column tanks in the Gulf of America. The project, completed on the Appomattox floating production system (FPS), used advanced aerial robotics to transform Shell’s tank inspection approach, eliminating risk-laden confined space entry and rope access while delivering high-quality, auditable data.
Already working with Shell as part of an ongoing inspection contract, our team explored various technology options before selecting the Scout 137 drone system.
Equipped with 4K HD cameras, a built-in ultrasonic thickness (UT) instrument, an onboard 64-beam 3D LiDAR mapping system, and featuring a tethered power supply design delivering unlimited flight time, the system was an ideal solution.
In preparation for the project, a team of Oceaneering engineers and technicians travelled to ScoutDI’s facilities in Norway for drone system-specific training, exploring best practices and capabilities with the manufacturer. The insights gained during the training proved pivotal, especially when navigating the tanks’ complex internal geometries.
In February 2025, technicians and equipment were mobilized to the Appomattox FPS. Both tanks were opened, and the ballast tank was drained prior to inspection. The drone was successfully deployed into the ballast tank, completely eliminating confined space entry, completed detailed visual inspection supported by LiDAR mapping, and collected UT measurements. While the second tank did require personnel entry for advance flaw detection, using the ScoutDI system eliminated the need to use rope access for visual inspection and the collection of UT measurements at height.
The first tank inspection was completed in six hours and the second tank in seven hours. Completing a similar scope with a traditional approach would have taken approximately 26 hours, as a minimum.
Shell was able to meet their objectives of reducing risk to personnel and using technology to drive improved outcomes.
The drone system delivered exceptional data and traceability thanks to its 4K HD camera system, providing high-resolution visual data and accurate measurements. The system’s web-based software platform, Scout Portal, enabled intuitive reporting and real-time analysis using detailed 3D models of the tanks. This enabled the team to confirm all anomalies were identified and communicated per Shell's reporting requirements, ensuring regulatory compliance and the integrity of the tanks.
Based on the success of this project, Shell has scheduled subsequent tank inspections using the same drone-based approach. Our team will support six additional scopes of work using advanced aerial robotics at Shell’s offshore assets in the Gulf of America in 2025.
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