Sonomatic pioneers remote buried vessel inspection with advanced corrosion mapping
08/01/2026
Sonomatic has successfully completed a groundbreaking remote inspection of a buried closed drain vessel, overcoming significant access and safety challenges to deliver comprehensive corrosion mapping data for a major onshore asset owner.
Since 2023, Sonomatic has collaborated closely with the client to develop a solution that eliminates the need for personnel entry into the vessel. Following a detailed feasibility study, the team deployed a suite of advanced technologies, including remote video surveillance robot and corrosion mapping crawler systems, to conduct internal corrosion mapping via the only accessible points on the vessel: the top nozzles.
The project required bespoke engineering, such as custom deployment and retrieval plates, to facilitate the movement and retrieval of inspection equipment within the confined spaces of the vessel. The integration of Sonomatic’s Microplus data collection system enabled high-quality data capture and analysis, while the Sonomatic Integrity Management Software (SIMS) platform provided detailed vessel condition models.
Key challenges included achieving the client’s coverage requirements for the vessel shell, domes and nozzles, all without direct human access. The innovative approach of the team ensured real-time monitoring and precise control of inspection tools, even in the most restricted areas.
The data collected confirmed the ongoing suitability of the vessel for service and provided a foundation for future analytics. Lessons learned from the project are already informing further enhancements, including improved deployment systems and alternative scanning technologies for complex geometries.
Sonomatic’s achievement demonstrates the potential of remote inspection technologies to enhance safety, data quality and asset integrity in the energy sector.
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