EXPLOSION SAFETY
restriction an FAA waiver is required. According to Geospatial World, 99 per cent of waiver applications fail.
The restrictions are different when you enter different airspace classifications (those above 400 AGL). For pipelines that traverse national boundaries, these regulatory issues become even more complex.
Another consideration many businesses must make is what business model to adopt. In its guidance for the industry, the American Petroleum Industry outlines three alternative models. Although the technology is constantly improving, there are limitations that are relevant to their potential for surveying pipelines. The limitations of the batteries that power the vehicles gives rise to range anxiety, a problem that is more significant for pipelines that cover significant distances. It is likely the industry will focus on using drones for inspection of oil rigs and other infrastructure before taking on the challenge of vast pipelines.
If maintenance engineers are to exploit the benefits of UAV technology, keeping the drones in tip-top condition will be essential. Understanding the maintenance needs of these vehicles will be important for those companies who adopt the internal model referred to above. Engineers will need to be quick to acquire fresh expertise in this area.
Maintaining and replacing the bearings in drones will be an essential part of this. Many oil installations face significant risks from corrosion. Bearings too, need protection from corrosion. If your drone is operating in an environment where this risk exists, speak to a reputable supplier like SMB Bearings for the best information on bearing choice for your application. The buzz surrounding drones is only set to grow and their use in monitoring and maintaining oil installations will allow the
oil industry to improve worker safety, reduce the time taken to complete key maintenance tasks and realise substantial cost savings. If you are thinking of adopting an unmanned aerial vehicle program to monitor your assets, consider the benefits of partnering with a reliable supplier of high-quality precision bearings to help keep your drones in the air.
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