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Flyability, the leading provider of confined space drones, has announced the release of a new ultrasonic thickness measurement (UTM) payload for its flagship drone, the Elios 3. Developed in collaboration with Cygnus Instruments, a global leader in ultrasonic testing (UT) technology, this payload is designed to support certified UT inspectors.
The new live A-scan UT payload is specifically tailored for spot thickness measurements of steel in various settings, including ship hulls, tanks, and pipe ranks. With UT playing a critical role in many inspection processes, this innovative payload offers a safer method for accessing thickness measurement locations (TMLs). The Elios 3 can navigate confined spaces and reach TML points at height, facilitating quick and secure wall thickness gauging or corrosion surveys.
Mounted on a smart arm equipped with a laser pointer for precise aiming at measurement points, the ultrasonic probe ensures optimal ultrasound transmission to the material under test. The arm's mounting and shaping options can adapt to the complexity of industrial settings. Additionally, a remotely operated couplant dispenser facilitates the process, and each measurement can be location-tagged on a digital twin of the asset for easy analysis. The Elios 3 can also carry a cleaning module to prepare test surfaces for measurement.
Patrick Thévoz, CEO and co-founder of Flyability, commented, “Since our initial projects with customers in the oil and gas, maritime, and chemical industries, the ability to perform UTM alongside visual inspections has been highly requested. After four years of product development and research, we are proud to offer a reliable, safe, and effective UTM solution for inaccessible areas.”
Quality and compliance have been paramount in the development of this payload. The partnership with Cygnus has been instrumental in integrating and applying ultrasonic measuring technology with the Elios 3, resulting in a unique product tailored for challenging inspection environments. The payload meets ISO 16809 compliance and upholds the highest standards of accuracy, quality, and reliability in thickness gauging.
Lulu Crosthwaite-Eyre, Managing Director of Cygnus Instruments, said, “Cygnus has observed the evolution of aerial drone-based inspection over the past two decades. We are privileged to collaborate on the ultrasonic thickness measurement payload for the Elios 3, contributing to safer NDT inspection across multiple industries.”
The UTM payload was unveiled during the Flyability User Conference in Lausanne, Switzerland, and is available for demonstration and purchase, with deliveries expected in Q3 of 2024. This marks the third unit for the modular Elios 3, expanding its applications in mapping, surveying, and non-destructive testing across various industries. Learn more on the Flyability website.
For more information on Flyability Announce UT Probe Payload for the Elios 3 in Partnership with Cygnus – Marking Industry Milestone talk to Cygnus Instruments Ltd