Sutton Bridge Power Station
Efficient Drone Inspection for Gas-Fired Power Station
Location: Sutton Bridge, Lincolnshire, UK
Services required:
- Planning and Risk Assessments
- Drone Inspection (DJI Matrice 30T)
- Visual Testing in Compliance with BS EN 13018
- Safety Checks and Assurance
Sutton Bridge Power Station
Introduction
Sutro Group was commissioned to perform a drone inspection at Sutton Bridge Power Station, an 819 MW gas-fired power station in Lincolnshire, UK. The inspection was carried out in accordance with European Standard BS EN 13018, which specifies the principles for both direct and remote visual testing to determine product compliance with specified requirements. The drone inspection targeted critical assets, including valves, vents, and stacks that were isolated during the inspection.
Benefits and Savings
The use of the DJI Matrice 30T allowed the inspection to be completed efficiently in a fraction of the time required for traditional methods like scaffolding or manual inspection.
Drone technology eliminated the need for costly access equipment such as scaffolding, significantly reducing labour and operational expenses.
By employing the DJI Matrice 30T drone, Sutro Group minimised the need for personnel to access dangerous or hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall site safety.
The rapid deployment of the drone allowed for a thorough inspection with minimal disruption to ongoing operations, enhancing overall efficiency.
Project Overview
The inspection at Sutton Bridge Power Station focused on the condition of the valves, vents, and stacks. The DJI Matrice 30T drone was selected for this project due to its robust features, including thermal imaging and advanced zoom capabilities.
Preparation
Sutro Group’s team conducted detailed planning and risk assessments in line with BS EN 13018 standards, ensuring all safety protocols were followed.
Drone Inspection
The DJI Matrice 30T, equipped with a wide camera, zoom camera, and thermal imaging camera, was used to inspect the isolated assets. Its ability to access challenging areas allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of the site.
Final Checks
After the inspection, detailed assessments of all findings were carried out, highlighting any areas requiring maintenance.
Solution
The Sutton Bridge Power Station drone inspection showcases Sutro Group’s ability to deliver high-quality, safe, and efficient inspection services using cutting-edge technology. By utilising the DJI Matrice 30T, Sutro Group achieved significant cost and time savings, while also ensuring the highest safety standards were met. The project demonstrated how modern drone technology can effectively enhance traditional inspection methods, contributing to operational excellence in industrial environments.
Results of the drone inspection:
- No damage or deformation was found in the valves, vents, or stacks.
- Widespread surface corrosion was noted, and maintenance recommendations were provided.
- All asset connections were in acceptable condition, but some bolts and welded seams showed surface corrosion.
- A foreign object was detected on one relief valve, and its removal was recommended to avoid operational interference.
- Pigeon guano and surface corrosion were found on several relief valves, requiring cleaning and maintenance.
For more information on how Sutro Group can optimise your inspection processes, contact us today:
0800 069 9395
info@sutrogroup.co.uk
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