High-temperature UT payload
15/07/2024
Aerial robotics pioneer Voliro has unveiled what it claims is a groundbreaking innovation in the non-destructive testing (NDT) sector. The latest addition to its technology arsenal is a high-temperature ultrasonic testing (UT) payload for the Voliro T drone.
This advancement marks a significant milestone in the realm of drone-based inspections, as it enables NDT inspectors to perform inspections on hot surfaces, including those that are still in operation, thus eliminating costly downtime.
In industries where downtime can be astronomically expensive, the Voliro T drone equipped with the high-temperature UT payload means asset owners no longer need to shut down operations and wait for equipment to cool down before inspection can commence and it only takes one hour to inspect a flare stack or a chimney.
Traditionally, NDT required personnel to access challenging locations using scaffolding or ropes. These methods not only posed safety risks but also resulted in extended downtime, costing asset owners a substantial amount of money. Voliro’s UT payload eliminates the need for human intervention in high-risk environments, making inspections safer and more efficient.
This technology is particularly well-suited for inspecting flare stacks, piping, pressure vessels and boilers, making it an invaluable tool for a wide range of industrial applications. In the petrochemical sector, where safety is paramount, the Voliro T drone with its high-temperature UT payload ensures that inspections can be conducted with minimal disruption to plant operations.
The high-temperature UT payload, manufactured by Ionix, can operate on surfaces with temperatures as high as 260°C. It boasts an operating frequency of 4 MHz and offers a thickness range of 2 mm to 150 mm. To meet the demanding requirements of inspections in challenging locations, the ultrasonic transducer is not only capable of operating in extreme temperatures but is also designed to withstand inclement weather conditions and rough surfaces. Its flexibility allows for multiple configurations, including frequency and diameter adjustments, making it adaptable to various inspection scenarios.
By introducing the high-temperature UT payload for the Voliro T drone, the company believes it is empowering industries to embrace a safer, more efficient and cost-effective approach to inspections.
Voliro
