DTEK, a leading energy company in Ukraine, recently tested the Elios 2 drone for chimney and boiler inspections at one of their power plants. The results were impressive—this innovative technology significantly reduced the time required for inspections while eliminating the need for dangerous manual work. DTEK is the largest private investor in Ukraine’s energy sector, operating multiple power plants across the country. These facilities rely on large chimneys and boilers for power generation, which require regular inspections to ensure safe and efficient operation. Any unnoticed damage, such as a small scratch in a boiler’s steel pipe, could lead to serious issues, including costly downtime and long-term asset damage. That’s why DTEK has been actively seeking safer and more efficient inspection solutions. Inspecting chimneys over 180 meters tall typically involves hiring industrial climbers who use special ladders to reach the top. For boilers, inspectors must build scaffolding inside, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Each inspection requires significant resources and leads to production downtime, affecting revenue. Moreover, only about 20% of inspections result in actual maintenance needs. This means that most of the time, the main goal is simply to collect visual data, which could be done remotely with the right tools. After exploring alternatives, DTEK came across the Elios 2, a specialized drone designed for indoor inspections. Unlike standard drones, the Elios 2 is enclosed in a protective cage, allowing it to navigate tight spaces without crashing. It also operates without GPS, making it ideal for confined areas like chimneys and boilers. Features like distance lock, stabilization, and oblique lighting help inspectors see details clearly, mimicking the way human inspectors use flashlights to examine surfaces. This makes the Elios 2 an excellent tool for capturing high-quality visual data from hard-to-reach places. DTEK used the Elios 2 to inspect both a chimney and a boiler at one of its power stations. The results were impressive: Chimney Inspections with the Elios 2 During the boiler inspection, the Elios 2 was able to capture detailed visuals of every part, including thousands of tiny pipes. This level of detail helps identify potential issues early, preventing major failures down the line. Boiler Inspections with the Elios 2 The boiler inspection took longer due to the complexity of the internal structure, but the drone still outperformed manual methods. It was able to detect leaks and scratches quickly, something that would take much longer using traditional techniques. The success of the Elios 2 during these inspections has encouraged DTEK to consider integrating drone-based inspections into their routine maintenance processes. With the ability to conduct inspections more frequently and safely, the company is looking forward to improved asset longevity and overall operational efficiency. As bicycles become more and more popular, their construction and accessories are becoming better known. Some of the Bike parts require regular maintenance or replacement, such as the chain and brake panels. Proper chain tension is essential for efficient power transfer from the pedals to the rear wheel. If the chain is too loose, it can lead to slippage and loss of power. If it is too tight, it will cause unnecessary friction and wear on the chain and bike freewheel. The chain tensioner is a key component in maintaining the correct tension in your bike's chain. It ensures that the chain runs smoothly and does not slip or jump off the sprocket. And the bottom bracket is the central component that holds the crankset (the pedals and gears) in place and allows it to rotate. A well-functioning bottom bracket is vital for a smooth and efficient ride. If the bottom bracket is worn or damaged, even rainy riding causes seepage, it can cause friction, creaking noises, and even prevent the crankset from rotating properly. So it's important to check the bike status in time to ensure safe riding. We have almost all the parts for the whole bike, the bike stem in alloy, the seat post in multi-size and so on. bicycle parts,bike chain,chain tensioner,bottom bracket,BMX MID BB Suzhou Jingqiyao Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. , https://www.polsobike.comDrones in Chimney Inspections: Elios 2 Helps Personnel Avoid Dangerous Climbs
Key Benefits at a Glance
Safety
Drones eliminate the need for workers to climb 180 meters (590 feet) up a chimney or scale scaffolding three stories high for boiler inspections, reducing exposure to hazardous conditions.
ROI
Using drones instead of professional climbers and scaffolding can save up to $50,000 per inspection, making it a cost-effective alternative.
Efficiency
The Elios 2 collects visual data faster than traditional methods without requiring extra equipment like ladders or scaffolding.
About DTEK
Challenges of Traditional Inspections
The Solution: Elios 2
Results from Real-World Testing
Conclusion
