Scope Overview

Our client required close visual inspection by drone of two flare systems and associated structures on a UKCS offshore facility. The data from the inspections was to aid the integrity department in monitoring the flare condition and capturing additional information on known defects within the systems, ahead of a TAR campaign.

What did we do?

The client wanted to pay particular attention to the following components:

• Pressure Systems - flare tip, pilot lines and associated connecting pipework.

• Flare tower structure - Chords & braces, tie struts and connections, flare tip platform, accessways, boom and tie strut connections to deck.

• Dropped Object Risks

A team of 2 Innovair personnel mobilised with a M300 RTK Inspection Drone system and two camera payloads. Both personnel were experienced inspection engineers and competent drone pilots.

Deployment of drone was carried out on the roof of the oil rig and using a RTK base for positional accuracy. Over 20 flights were completed in a 6 day period with both flare systems inspected on schedule. High resolution imagery including thermal images were collected to identify all defects and anomalies on the structures.

What were the results?

1000’s of high-resolution images along with 4k video was captured across both flare systems and structures, enabling the inspections to be completed, as per the required scope. Thermal images were also collected across flare tips to investigate any damaged components.

Several structural elements were found to be damaged during the inspection and reported immediately back to client whilst on site. Once returned back to base, detailed reporting was completed by our Qualified Inspection Engineers and issued to the client confirming current condition of the flares.

Edited images and video files were issued to the client to allow them to complete further analysis and maximise the value of the high-resolution images to zoom in to detail of all defects reported.

What were benefits?

Using our specialist drone system with competent inspection engineers avoided the need to shut down the plant, removes working at height and significantly reduces offshore works schedules and costs. The amount of data captured in the relatively short trip was vast compared to traditional methods with a team of only two inspectors.

Our client used the inspection reports to better plan their next turnaround, where they will complete needed repairs and flare system replacements.

Client Project Manager Feedback

“Thanks for your support over the last week or so on the flare inspections. You were extremely helpful and proactive in getting these all completed.”