Use Case Roundup: Drone & Robotic Deployments in Energy
/From enhancing safety to optimizing operational efficiency, drones and robotics are reshaping traditional practices in the energy industry and opening up new horizons for exploration and production.
Here, we compiled several compelling use cases where drones and robotics are making significant strides in transforming the energy sector and driving innovation.
Want to hear & see the latest robotics/drone case studies, deployments and best practices from energy asset owners/operators live and in-person? Be sure to grab your ticket for the largest gathering in the world at the 8th Annual Energy Drone & Robotics Summit, June 10-12 in Houston, TX.
Chevron Uses Spot Robots for Inspections and More
Chevron's integration of Boston Dynamics' Spot robots into its oil and gas operations heralds a pioneering leap in the industry's adoption of robotics technology. With an ever-growing fleet of Spot robots, Chevron stands at the forefront, leveraging these versatile machines to streamline operations, bolster safety measures, and enhance decision-making processes.
Equipped with an array of sensors including thermal cameras, high-definition PTZ cameras, acoustic leak detectors, gas detectors, and LIDAR systems, Spot robots undertake a multitude of tasks ranging from routine inspections to data collection, all while minimizing human exposure to hazardous environments.
From enabling real-time monitoring to facilitating the creation of digital twins for comprehensive site analysis, Chevron's embrace of robotics epitomizes a forward-looking vision aimed at redefining industry standards and pushing the boundaries of technological innovation.
Shell Unleashes Drone and Robot Fleet in Germany
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Leveraging Energy Robotics' software platform alongside a diverse fleet of robots and drones, Shell has implemented comprehensive 360° monitoring of its Energy and Chemicals Park Rheinland in Germany. The use of autonomous robots and drones not only enhances inspection processes but also contributes to elevated safety standards and improved working environments for employees.
Currently, two different robots, the ExR-2 from ExRobotics and Spot from Boston Dynamics, along with a drone, are employed for inspections, catering to the diverse environment of the plants. This collaborative effort underscores Shell's vision for automation and innovation, marking a significant stride towards digital transformation in the industry.
Arch Aerial Helps O&G Companies With Drone Operations
Arch Aerial is a commercial unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operator and hardware manufacturer. Its enterprise UAS services cater specifically to the energy sector, offering solutions for downstream, midstream, and upstream oil and gas operations as well as utilities.
The company provides comprehensive services such as encroachment patrols, construction documentation, methane detection via laser, and Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) for energy and renewable energy companies.
Recently, Arch Aerial highlighted how energy companies can use drones for baseline aerial mapping and right-of-way videography. This data is then used to understand what’s going on in the right-of-way and where to spend maintenance dollars on, for example, erosion control and vegetation management.
Methane Emissions Reduction at ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil, in its 2024 Advancing Climate Solutions Report, highlights its commitment to reducing methane emissions as part of its broader sustainability agenda. Acknowledging methane's significant contribution to climate change, the company has embarked on a multifaceted approach focusing on detection, measurement, and mitigation strategies.
Leveraging advanced technology such as infrared cameras, drones, and satellite-based systems, ExxonMobil aims to enhance its ability to detect and monitor methane emissions across its operations. The company's investment in initiatives like COMET, a central alert system for methane emissions monitoring, underscores its dedication to real-time detection and mitigation efforts.
Additionally, ExxonMobil is actively engaged in promoting data transparency, collaborating with industry peers and regulatory agencies to develop standardized methodologies for methane measurement and reporting. These efforts, alongside initiatives like the Methane Guiding Principles and measures to reduce flaring and replace pneumatic devices, demonstrate ExxonMobil's leadership in addressing methane emissions and advancing toward a more sustainable energy future.
Revolutionizing Nuclear Decommissioning and Cleanup
The role of robotics in nuclear decommissioning and cleanup efforts offers significant advantages in safety, efficiency, precision, and data collection. Various types of robots, including remote-controlled manipulators, autonomous drones, crawling and climbing robots, and underwater robots, are deployed to navigate hazardous environments, access confined spaces, survey contaminated areas, and perform intricate tasks with unparalleled accuracy.
Case studies from nuclear sites around the world showcase the real-world application of these technologies, with robots proving instrumental in mapping, inspection, and debris collection tasks, thereby enhancing safety and accelerating cleanup operations.
While challenges persist, ongoing research and development efforts aim to bolster robot capabilities, ensuring their resilience in extreme conditions and fostering a safer, more sustainable approach to managing nuclear facilities worldwide.
Robots Improve Operations and Safety in the Oilfield
Once confined to the realm of science fiction, robots have become indispensable in oil rigs, refineries, and pipelines. Various robot systems are employed for routine inspections on offshore platforms and visually examining live gas pipelines, aiming to reduce human exposure to hazardous environments, minimize operational shutdowns, and identify issues early with more frequent assessments.
Additionally, initiatives like developing robotic supervision systems and robotic riser systems demonstrate the industry's commitment to enhancing safety and efficiency by reducing human involvement in high-risk areas.
While the widespread adoption of these technologies may still be in its infancy, forward-thinking O&G companies are recognizing the potential benefits and leading the way toward a future where humans and robots collaborate seamlessly to ensure a safer and more sustainable industry.
That’s what’s going on around the energy industry. Do you have a use case to share? Send it to news@innovateenergynow.com.
