ROV Water Ballast Tank Inspection

The industry faces significant challenges in the wake of COVID restrictions. There is a backlog of work to complete as a result of the deferral of non-critical scopes. Fortunately, when it comes to inspection there is a whole toolbox of solutions available. Operators can overcome these challenges and tackle these backlogs by utilising the right technology. We recently demonstrated this, successfully delivering a fully digital ROV Water Ballast Tank Inspection campaign.

The condition of the ballast tanks was unknown. With pressure on POB levels, we needed to efficiently identify key problem areas to prioritise future detailed inspection and repairs. Crucially, we had to ensure that we would gather the right information in a limited timeframe, therefore we mobilised a two-man team comprised of an experienced Naval Architect and ROV Pilot. Our team deployed ROVs with a live video feed to MTL’s PYXIS Inspector app. As a result of the efficiency delivered by this technology, the team successfully inspected 18 ballast tanks in a fraction of the time manned inspections would take.

Integration of ROV Camera Feed

Above all, the integration of the ROV camera feed into our PYXIS Inspector app was key to the project’s success. Our Naval Architect could directly control the camera feed guiding the ROV pilot through the tanks. This control allowed us to ensure that we gathered the right data in the right locations. Further to this, PYXIS manages the inspection process digitally from end-to-end. The team processed video clips, image records and findings in real-time with no post processing of inspection data required. We could also draw on the dynamic planning functions within PYXIS. This feature allowed scopes to be adapted and modified based on the condition of the structure and what we were finding.

Rapid Processing of Inspection Data

Our PYXIS Inspector app enables rapid digital processing and cataloguing of findings. With immediate access to the inspection data, our onshore naval architects and engineers were able to efficiently assess important information. In addition to this, our client could view the output of the inspections within PYXIS Web. As a result, we could collaborate closely and ensure that maximum value was gained from these inspections.

High Degree of Certainty

Ultimately we have integrated the right technology to suit the requirements and constraints of the scope. Consequently, we have been able to screen the main problem areas and deliver a high degree of certainty to our client. The findings from this ROV water ballast tank inspection campaign have enabled a sequence for future integrity work to be established, providing quality information to support Life Extension plans.