7 Key Benefits of Drone Inspections in Oil and Gas
July 04 10:29:53, 2025
Drones have been transforming the way inspections are conducted in the oil and gas industry for years, offering a safer, faster, and more cost-effective solution. From external assessments to internal evaluations, these advanced tools are revolutionizing how professionals monitor and maintain critical infrastructure.
For external inspections, outdoor drones are widely used to capture high-resolution visual data from a safe distance, eliminating the need for inspectors to physically approach hazardous or hard-to-reach assets. This not only improves safety but also increases efficiency by reducing the time required for manual checks.
When it comes to internal inspections, indoor drones like Flyability’s Elios 3 are making a significant impact. These drones can enter confined spaces such as storage tanks, chimneys, and offshore rigs, collecting both visual data and ultrasonic thickness measurements. This is especially important for assets that must be inspected according to strict guidelines like API standards.
The use of drones in internal inspections helps eliminate the risks associated with entering confined spaces, which often involve hazards like limited visibility, dangerous gases, and physical strain. Instead of relying on scaffolding or rope access, inspectors can now perform remote assessments from outside the asset, significantly improving safety and reducing exposure to potential dangers.
One of the most notable benefits of using drones in the oil and gas sector is the reduction in downtime. Traditional inspection methods often require setting up temporary structures like scaffolding, which can take days or even weeks to install and remove. Drones, however, allow for rapid data collection without the need for such preparations. For example, an inspection that once took two weeks was completed in just four hours using an Elios drone, saving the facility a substantial amount of time and money.
Safety is another major advantage. By sending a drone into an asset instead of an inspector, companies reduce the risk of accidents caused by confined space entry, falls, or exposure to harmful gases. In addition, the drone’s sensors can detect dangerous conditions in real time, allowing pilots to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary risks.
Cost savings are also a key factor. A case study showed that using an indoor drone reduced inspection costs by 96%, mainly due to the elimination of scaffolding and other labor-intensive tasks. Companies like Tüpraş have reported significant financial benefits from using drones, including reduced downtime and lower operational expenses.
Another benefit is improved access. Indoor drones are designed to navigate tight and complex spaces, reaching areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. The Elios 3, for instance, can fit into spaces as small as 50x50 cm and is built to withstand collisions, making it ideal for inspecting intricate structures.
With the ability to conduct frequent inspections, drones help track the condition of assets over time, enabling early detection of wear and tear. This leads to better maintenance planning and fewer unexpected failures, ultimately improving overall operational reliability.
Drones also provide high-quality data. Equipped with 4K cameras and LiDAR technology, they can generate detailed 3D models of inspected assets, highlighting defects and faults with precision. The Elios 3 can also carry an ultrasonic thickness probe, providing accurate measurements that meet industry certification standards.
Data localization and management are further enhanced through software like Inspector 5.0, which allows inspectors to mark defects, share findings, and streamline reporting. This makes it easier for teams to collaborate and ensures that all relevant stakeholders have access to accurate and up-to-date information.
In summary, drone inspections are reshaping the oil and gas industry by enhancing safety, reducing costs, improving access, and delivering reliable data. As technology continues to evolve, the role of drones in asset management will only grow, making them an essential tool for modern operations.
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