Description
A Robotic Solution for Internal Inspections and Maintenance
The use of robotics in the oil and gas industry is becoming a hot topic.
Discussions with engineers made it clear that:
- a better view of a number of processes would be a great benefit
- 80% of downtime is due to preparation for human entry
- a snake robot capable of entering towers and vessels via a small diameter tapping point would be the solution
The research and development team at Process Vision Ltd have responded to this need by
developing InSight – a robot snake. It comprises of a maneuverable optical system, which can monitor the
internal operation of processing systems while the plant is operating. The small diameter snake provides a
live video feed to provide real time operations troubleshooting and equipment inspection.
InSight is designed for high pressure combustible gas systems. It will be able to safely access systems via
existing tapping points and become a versatile tool to perform a number of tasks that currently require a
plant shutdown. InSight will have the ability to investigate the internal condition of piping and pressure
vessels Additional tools will enable operators to troubleshoot operations problems such as foaming or
fouling.
The aim of project InSight is to:
- increase availability by reducing the need for inspection shutdowns
- improve safety by reducing the need for confined space working
- reduce shutdown duration as online diagnostics will help shutdown planning and logistics
