ShenZhen Jakeconn Precision Technology Co., Ltd. , https://www.jakeconn.com
Over the past few years, inspectors in the cement industry have been discovering significant advantages by using indoor drones to gather visual data. These aerial tools are proving to be a game-changer, especially when it comes to inspecting hard-to-reach areas within critical infrastructure.
Indoor drones are particularly well-suited for internal inspections in cement plants, where workers need to collect visual data from assets like cyclones, slurry tanks, and kilns. These inspections help identify potential issues such as corrosion, wear, or structural damage that might require maintenance.
Here are some of the key assets inspected using indoor drones in cement plants:
- Cement and clinker silos
- Slurry tanks
- Cyclones
- Tertiary air ducts
- Kilns
- Storage units
- Conveyor belts
Traditionally, these inspections required workers to enter the asset manually, often using flashlights and cameras to document the interior. In larger facilities, this process could involve scaffolding or rope access, which not only posed safety risks but also added time and cost to the operation.
However, high-quality indoor drones eliminate the need for physical entry. Instead, inspectors can remotely control the drone to capture detailed images and videos from inside the asset, making the process safer and more efficient.
Here are six major ways indoor drones are transforming the cement industry:
**1. Enhanced Safety**
Entering confined spaces or working at height on scaffolding exposes inspectors to serious risks. By using drones, they can collect data from outside, significantly reducing exposure to hazardous environments. This approach not only protects workers but also ensures that any necessary maintenance is targeted and efficient.
**2. Cost Savings**
A global cement company recently saved $50,000 during a single inspection by using an indoor drone. The savings came from reduced downtime and the elimination of scaffolding costs, which can run into tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars per inspection.
**3. Reduced Downtime**
Drones speed up the inspection process by eliminating the need to set up and dismantle scaffolding. In one case, a cyclone inspection was completed 16 hours faster than traditional methods, allowing the plant to resume operations sooner.
**4. Improved Access**
Some parts of cement manufacturing equipment are too tight or dangerous for human inspectors to reach. Drones, with their compact and maneuverable design, can access these areas and provide clear visual data, ensuring no critical spot is overlooked.
**5. High-Quality Visual Data**
Indoor drones offer detailed, high-resolution images that allow inspectors to spot even the smallest defects. For example, a drone was able to closely examine an agitator arm in a slurry tank and confirm its integrity without needing manual inspection.
**6. Streamlined Processes and Increased Frequency**
Drones make it easier to conduct frequent inspections, both planned and spontaneous. This leads to better overall visibility, improved decision-making, and longer-lasting equipment.
**Best Practices for Using Indoor Drones in Cement Plants**
If you're planning to use drones for inspections, here are some expert tips:
- **Use fishing line**: Attach a strong fishing line to the drone to prevent it from being lost, especially in dusty environments. Make sure the line can support the drone's weight.
- **Keep flights short**: Fast flights reduce dust disturbance and maintain visibility. Plan your route ahead to minimize time spent in the asset.
- **Clean thoroughly after each flight**: Dust can damage the drone over time. Use compressed air to clean it regularly and ensure it’s ready for the next mission.
Using indoor drones isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about making inspections safer, smarter, and more effective. Whether you're looking to cut costs, improve safety, or enhance operational performance, drones are becoming an essential tool in the cement industry.