We are proud to announce our latest innovation in collaboration with SkyeBase: the Elios 3 UT Probe for ultrasonic thickness (UT) measurements. This cutting-edge tool is transforming how we conduct ultrasonic thickness measurements, allowing inspections in elevated, hard-to-reach areas without the need for traditional scaffolding, aerial platforms or ropes.
Our expert inspectors have thoroughly validated the Elios 3 UT Probe and developed the protocols, ensuring ultrasonic measurement accuracy and precision in every inspection. This breakthrough not only enhances inspection quality and safety but also significantly reduces costs.
Key advantages of drone-based inspections
Our drone-based ultrasonic thickness measurements offer several advantages, including:
- Improved safety: drones allow us to avoid putting inspectors in risky situations, reducing safety hazards during inspections
- Reduced downtime: faster inspections mean less disruption to your operations, minimizing costly downtime
- Cost-efficiency: by eliminating the need for scaffolding, rope techniques or aerial lifts, you can achieve significant savings
- Increased efficiency: our technology enables us to cover more ground in less time, increasing overall productivity
- Accurate and reliable data: our ultrasonic thickness measurements comply with ISO 16809 standards, ensuring ultrasonic measurement accuracy, quality and reliability
- Versatile applications: this technology can be applied across various industries, giving us the flexibility to serve a wide range of clients
- Access to hard-to-reach areas: our drone-based ultrasonic thickness gauge (UTG) can inspect remote, difficult-to-access or hazardous areas that were previously unreachable
- Reduced human error: with automated processes and precise UTG technology, we minimize the chances of mistakes during inspections
- No confined space attendant required: our drones eliminate the need for sending inspectors into confined or dangerous spaces
- A-scan and echo-to-echo measurements: we offer in-depth analysis during measurements, including A-scan capabilities and echo-to-echo data for more detailed assessments
- Points of Interest (POI): our UTG technology makes identifying specific locations for post-processing easier with POI tags.
The importance of wall thickness measurements
In industries such as storage, processing, and tank terminals, regular wall thickness measurements are often a legal requirement. These measurements are critical for ensuring the safety and integrity of storage tanks, silos, pressure tanks, steel chimneys, piping and flaring installations. However, the challenge lies in accessing Thickness Measurement Locations (TMLs) that are difficult to reach or pose a danger to inspectors.
Our solution: the flying UT gauge
By equipping the Skyebase Elios 3 drone with a UT Payload, we can now conduct precise thickness measurements and corrosion investigations in even the most challenging and darkest areas. The drone is also supported by high-resolution imagery, ensuring we capture detailed data.
Advanced technology for accurate results
The ultrasonic probe is mounted on a Smart Probe Arm, which includes a laser pointer for visual guidance to precisely target measurement points. A remotely operated gel dispenser ensures optimal ultrasonic sound transmission. Every measurement is tagged with a location point (POI) on a 3D model, providing a complete and accurate representation of the asset.
A collaboration that drives innovation
Together with SkyeBase, we are pioneering drone-based wall thickness measurement technology, combining advanced camera and drone technology with AI-powered data analysis. This innovative partnership optimizes industrial inspection processes, improving efficiency, safety and sustainability. Through this collaboration, we are committed to delivering better operational performance and greater cost savings for industrial clients worldwide.
For further information, please contact:
Kristof Van Hoecke
Marketing and Sales Manager Benelux
t: +32 (0) 478 997 431
About SGS
We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.
