A major global energy producer was seeking a safer, more cost-effective method to conduct comprehensive internal inspection of above-ground atmospheric storage tanks across their sites in the United Kingdom. In early 2025, as part of a long-running and ongoing contract with the client, our multi-certified teams used the Flyability Elios 3 drone system to meet their operational objectives.
The client required a thorough internal inspection of above-ground atmospheric storage tanks and wanted to eliminate the requirement for costly scaffolding, estimated to cost a total of £190,000 per tank being inspected. Additionally, they needed a solution that eliminated confined space entry while improving the quality of data collected, improving the insight they had to drive decision making and planning.
We selected the Elios 3 drone system, with computer vision and onboard LiDAR-based 3D imaging for precise positioning, to complete the tank inspection.
During the inspection campaign, the system provided high-resolution visual data and accurate measurements, a platform that supported intuitive reporting via a 3D model of the tanks, and improved situational awareness, ensuring safe operation. This allowed for detailed analysis, ensuring all anomalies were identified and communicated in accordance with client reporting requirements. The drone's capabilities minimized the need for manual intervention, optimized safety, and significantly reduced operational costs. The team was also able to collect the required ultrasonic thickness (UT) measurements using the drone’s ultrasonic payload. Battery operated deployment provided our engineers the freedom to navigate the space, including working in close proximity to structural components, with confidence.
The implementation of Elios 3 drone technology successfully transformed the internal tank inspection scope. Not only did the client eliminate scaffolding or rope access related costs, but they also benefited from a detailed inspection with high-quality data collection, ensuring comprehensive assessment without the need for personnel in confined spaces or at height.
The project used Flyability’s FlyAware™ Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology, a system that integrates advanced computer vision, LiDAR technology, and a robust NVidia graphical engine. Functioning as a highly accurate indoor GPS, it generated real-time 3D maps that enabled the drone to perceive its surroundings. Adding to the value of the system was the full traceability of the data, including video and image archives and anomaly tagging, that equipped the client with the information needed to meet regulatory requirements while enabling them to schedule any necessary repairs. The success of this project has prompted the client to evaluate a potential global roll out of the drone technology for their tank inspections.
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