[2C1] Evaluation of the performance capability of remote visual inspection using drones
A Bannister, G Alliott and M Stewart
Health and Safety Executive, Science and Research Centre, UK
Close visual inspection (CVI) forms a cornerstone of integrity assurance for surface flaws and corrosion damage in assets such as offshore structures, vessels and tanks. Recent advances in access technologies, such as drones, have led to their increased use for remote visual inspection (RVI) as partial, or complete, replacement of CVI. However, comparative studies of capabilities and limitations of RVI in terms of reliable detection of different types of defect are currently limited.
In collaboration with a group of industrial partners, a series of trials to evaluate the capabilities of drone inspections has been completed. The aim of the trials was to develop the evidence base for the types and sizes of defect and degradation that can be reliably found using currently available drone and camera technology. The results were analysed in terms of the ability of each of the five participating organisations to find, identify and size features present in a range of materials. Features included welding defects, fatigue cracks, pitting corrosion and artificial notches. Feature resolution capability was assessed through the use of a range of image quality indicator samples.
The results were evaluated in respect of the overall capability of RVI in comparison with CVI. An assessment of current RVI performance expectation is presented in the paper.
In collaboration with a group of industrial partners, a series of trials to evaluate the capabilities of drone inspections has been completed. The aim of the trials was to develop the evidence base for the types and sizes of defect and degradation that can be reliably found using currently available drone and camera technology. The results were analysed in terms of the ability of each of the five participating organisations to find, identify and size features present in a range of materials. Features included welding defects, fatigue cracks, pitting corrosion and artificial notches. Feature resolution capability was assessed through the use of a range of image quality indicator samples.
The results were evaluated in respect of the overall capability of RVI in comparison with CVI. An assessment of current RVI performance expectation is presented in the paper.
