Drones, or to use their full title ‘Unmanned aerial systems (UAS)’ is technology that has made quite a big impression, rightly or wrongly. For those in the Aviation industry, they’ve proved to be at best a distraction, and at worse a danger. However, their use is becoming more and more commonplace, and they’re actually quite an effective tool, when used properly.
The reality is that companies are designing commercial UAS for the private sector, that are gradually permeating our daily life. They are quickly evolving into a useful maritime and energy business tool, due to the innovative opportunities they provide. This novel approach reduces cost and makes time savings, with clients poised to harness the potential advantages drones offer. Drones provide an evolving list of potential uses in the maritime, energy, shipping, offshore, and ship construction markets.
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Besides resupplying vessels, companies are increasingly utilizing drones in the energy sector in performing inspection work. Experts suggest that drones are capable of operating in some of the most challenging environments in the offshore industry, and could be used to meet requirements before oil and gas exploration is approved, such as those related to surveys of ice and marine life. Drones can survey and identify elements of a rig or vessel for leaks, damage to piping, structural defects, or other irregularities in locations that are difficult to access or dangerous for human intervention, such as offshore risers, flare stacks, and undersides of offshore structures. Also, drones could assist in complicated inspection and survey work in circumstances in which a class survey may be required, including hull tank inspections in confined spaces.