An analysis conducted by a North Sea operator has shown that unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) inspections and surveys conducted by Cyberhawk Innovations are twenty times faster and half the cost of traditional inspection methods.
According to Cyberhawk, the North Sea E&P company analyzed inspection data from the last two years and concluded that Cyberhawk’s UAV inspection technique proved 20 times more efficient than traditional inspection methods, such as rope access.
In addition, Cyberhawk said it delivered each inspection report for 50 percent cheaper than rope access inspections.
The Scottish UAV service provider added that, apart from cost and efficiency savings, use of UAVs also means reduced working at height, reduced requirement for offshore bed space, reduced use of standby boats, and less helicopter usage, meaning further indirect efficiencies and savings.
Chris Fleming , CEO at Cyberhawk, said: “More and more operators are changing their inspection philosophy, and looking at safer, more efficient techniques which minimize risks to personnel.
“Using UAV technology for all initial visual and thermal inspections, means that personnel are only required for contact and advanced inspection if required.
“The feedback received from the client confirms what we already know – that UAVs offer the most efficient solution when it comes to asset inspection, across a multitude of industrial sectors.
“We expect demand for UAV technology to continue growing, particularly in the international oil and gas sector as operators adjust to working in a new, lower oil price environment. Innovative technologies such as drones, which can offer cost savings of up to seven figures and boast huge potential, cannot be ignored.”