Dexon Technology PLC Launches the GEN 2.0 UTM Drone System Offering Enhanced Inspection Capabilities

Dexon Technology PLC unveils the GEN 2.0 Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) drone system. Building on the success of the GEN 1.0 UTM drone, which was launched in July 2023 and demonstrated impressive inspection capabilities on offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of Thailand, the GEN 2.0 represents a significant leap forward in the field of NDT.

Enhancements Onboard the GEN 2.0 UTM Drone System:

Extended Inspection Altitude: The most notable improvement is the increase in inspection altitude, soaring from 25 meters to an impressive 100 meters. This expanded range allows for the comprehensive assessment of all assets within refineries and plants, significantly reducing the need for extensive shutdowns and associated costs and lost revenue.

Adjustable Ultrasonic Sensor Arm: Dexon’s GEN 2.0 UTM drone features a 180-degree adjustable ultrasonic sensor arm, providing dynamic inspection capabilities. This means that surfaces can be inspected at any orientation or angle, ensuring thorough and accurate data collection of a wider range of assets.

Key Operating Capabilities:

Live Data Collection: Both GEN 1.0 and 2.0 allow for live inspection data collection and verification, allowing pilot, co-pilot, and inspection engineers to work collaboratively during the flight. This ensures real-time data accuracy and verification eliminating the need to rerun inspection flights due to poor data quality.

Rapid Smart Charging: A cutting-edge smart charging station ensures continuous operations and unlimited flight time. Multiple batteries can be simultaneously charged and rotated, optimizing efficiency and reducing inspection downtime.

Understanding Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM):

UTM is a critical technology used in the non-destructive testing of assets in various industries. It involves sending high-frequency sound waves through a material to measure its thickness, helping identify areas of corrosion, erosion, or thinning, which can compromise safety and performance.

Advantages of the UTM Drone Over Traditional Inspection Methods:

Traditional inspection methods, such as rope access and manual inspection, often come with extensive setup times, costs, and the need for costly scaffolding and preparation. With drone-based UTM, numerous advantages become apparent:

Online Inspections: Drone UTM can be performed while assets are still online, eliminating the need for costly shutdowns and allowing for continued operations.

No Tank Drainage Required: Unlike traditional methods, there is no need to drain tanks, saving both time and resources.

Enhanced Safety: Drone-based inspections reduce safety procedures and requirements, minimizing risks to personnel and associated costs.

Minimal Preparation: Setup is minimal compared to traditional methods, as there is no need for extensive scaffolding.

Applications of GEN 2.0 UTM Drone System:

Dexon’s GEN 2.0 UTM drone system finds applications throughout the petrochemical and oil and gas industries, offering non-destructive testing capabilities for a wide range of assets, including:

Spherical and cylindrical tanks
Pipe elbows and process tubing
Marine Vessels and Hulls

The 180-degree range of motion provided by the upgraded UTM probe arm allows for the inspection of surfaces at various angles, from horizontal overhangs to flat and curved surfaces, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of asset integrity.

Dexon Technology’s GEN 2.0 UTM drone system marks a significant advancement in asset inspection technology in Thailand, providing the petrochemical and oil and gas industries with a powerful tool to maintain safety, extend asset life, and optimize operations.

For more information about Dexon Technology and the GEN 2.0 UTM drone system, please get in touch.