10 facts about underwater inspections
How modern underwater inspections with ROVs and micro-ROVs increase efficiency
Modern underwater inspections are increasingly being carried out using ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and micro-ROVs, as they offer significant advantages over traditional methods. ROVs enable precise and safe inspections in environments that would be too dangerous or difficult to access for human divers. Micro-ROVs, which are even more compact, can also be used in extremely confined spaces such as pipelines or small containers. These drones significantly reduce inspection times as they are quickly ready for use and provide high-resolution data in real time. They also cause less sediment stirring, which improves visibility and speeds up analysis. The use of ROVs and micro-ROVs not only saves costs, but also minimises risks and environmental impact, making them the preferred method for underwater inspections.
1. ROVs: The safe and efficient alternative to divers
2 Versatile areas of application for ROVs in underwater inspection
Underwater drones are used in many industries and fields of application. In the offshore oil and gas industry, they inspect drilling platforms, pipelines and other critical infrastructure. In the shipping industry, ROVs are used to inspect the hull and other important parts of ships without them having to go into dry dock. Today, ROVs are also indispensable in dams, bridges and harbour facilities. They even make an important contribution to research and environmental monitoring, for example for monitoring fish stocks or researching coral reefs. This versatility makes ROVs a universal tool for underwater inspection.
3. high-resolution camera systems deliver precise results
Modern ROVs are equipped with high-resolution cameras that enable a detailed visual inspection. Many of these cameras now offer 4K resolution, which means that even the smallest cracks or corrosion damage can be visualised. Together with powerful LED lights, ROVs can work in deep or murky waters where natural light is scarce to non-existent. The camera system plays a central role in documenting the inspection results, as the image and video recordings are transmitted to the surface in real time. This high image quality ensures that critical areas can be comprehensively analysed without the need for expensive re-inspections.
4. micro ROVs: efficient inspections in confined spaces
Micro-ROVs are specially developed underwater drones that are particularly compact and lightweight. They are ideal for use in confined or hard-to-reach areas such as pipes, valves, etc, Tanks or narrow crevices. Their small size allows them to manoeuvre through openings just a few centimetres in diameter, which would be impossible for larger ROVs or human divers. Despite their small size, micro-ROVs are equipped with powerful cameras, sonar and sometimes even gripper arms, making them an indispensable tool for Inspections in areas that are difficult to access makes. In industrial environments, such as water treatment plants or chemical plants, micro-ROVs save time and money as there is no need to create complicated access points.
5. sonar technology enables inspections in murky waters
One of the biggest challenges in underwater inspections is poor visibility, especially in waters that are clouded by dirt, sediment or algae. Modern ROVs are therefore often equipped with sonar technology, which enables them to navigate and carry out precise inspections even in zero visibility. Sonar works with sound waves that are reflected by objects and thus create an accurate image of the surroundings. There are different types of sonar, such as sidescan sonar, which scans a large area, or multibeam sonar, which provides detailed 3D images of the environment. Sonar technology is particularly useful when inspecting pipelines, bridge piers or harbour facilities where silt and sediment severely restrict visibility.
6 Real-time data improves decision-making
A key advantage of modern underwater inspection systems is the ability to transmit data to the surface in real time. ROVs are equipped with cameras and sensors that transmit their information directly to the operators. This enables immediate decisions and reactions to problems detected during the inspection. The data collected by the ROVs - be it videos, images or sonar data - can be analysed live so that repairs or further measures can be planned immediately. This real-time capability reduces equipment downtime and minimises the need for re-inspections, saving both time and money.
7. environmentally friendly inspections with minimal disruption
An often overlooked advantage of ROVs is their environmental friendliness. Compared to traditional diving inspections or the use of heavy machinery, ROVs stir up less sediment and cause less disturbance to the natural underwater environment. This is particularly important in ecologically sensitive areas such as coral reefs, fish farming areas or drinking water reservoirs. The precise control of ROVs makes it possible to work in a targeted manner without unnecessarily affecting the surrounding area. ROVs also reduce the risk of leaks or further environmental damage in areas where hazardous substances or chemicals are present.
8. ROVs work in extreme conditions
ROVs are specially designed to work in extreme conditions. They can be used at depths of more than 1000 metres, where the water pressure would be fatal to humans. They can also operate in contaminated or toxic environments, such as sewage treatment plants, chemical waste water tanks or oil spill zones. ROVs are also resistant to extreme temperatures and currents, making them an indispensable tool in arctic or tropical waters. Thanks to modern materials and technologies, ROVs are also resistant to Corrosionwhich extends their service life and reduces maintenance costs.
9. precise detection of corrosion and structural damage
A key objective of any underwater inspection is to detect structural damage at an early stage in order to avoid costly repairs or failures. ROVs are equipped with sophisticated sensors that can detect corrosion, cracks and other defects that would often be invisible to the naked eye. For example, these sensors measure the thickness of metal structures to identify corrosion or use ultrasound to detect internal defects in materials. Early detection of such damage is crucial to minimise safety risks and extend the service life of underwater structures.
10 The future: artificial intelligence and autonomous ROVs
The future of underwater inspections will be characterised by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous technologies. Autonomous ROVs that operate without human control could soon carry out inspections independently, recognise damage and even initiate repair measures. Initial tests with AI-controlled ROVs show that these drones are able to independently plan routes, avoid obstacles and generate reports on detected damage. The combination of AI and ROV technology will further increase the efficiency and accuracy of underwater inspections and reduce operating costs in the long term.
Conclusion
A key objective of any underwater inspection is to detect structural damage at an early stage in order to avoid costly repairs or failures. ROVs are equipped with sophisticated sensors that can detect corrosion, cracks and other defects that would often be invisible to the naked eye. For example, these sensors measure the thickness of metal structures to identify corrosion or use ultrasound to detect internal defects in materials. Early detection of such damage is crucial to minimise safety risks and extend the service life of underwater structures.
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