An aerial image taken with a drone conducting a Drone pipeline and pipe rack inspections

Drone pipeline and pipe rack inspections Revolutionise your pipeline and pipe rack inspections by using drones. Fast, safe and cost-effective.

Reduce downtime with live inspections

Traditional pipeline inspections are slow, expensive and labour-intensive. If the pipe is elevated they can be dangerous with a lot of working at height involved. Our team has extensive experience in using drones for pipeline and pipe rack inspection and monitoring, and we have helped numerous clients across various industries to optimize their inspection and maintenance programs. Whether you need routine inspections or emergency assessments, we have the expertise to deliver comprehensive and accurate results.

A pipe under a bridge being inspected
Routine Inspections

Routine Inspections

We provide routine inspections of pipelines and pipe racks to identify potential issues before they become major problems. Our drone inspections capture high-resolution images and data that enable us to assess the condition of pipes, identify leaks and other defects, and recommend appropriate maintenance measures.

A close up image of the lagging on a glycol pipe
Emergency Assessments

Emergency Assessments

In the event of a pipeline failure or other emergency, we provide rapid response drone inspections to assess the damage and determine the cause of the problem. Our emergency assessments enable us to quickly identify the extent of the damage, prioritize repairs, and minimize downtime.

An aerial image of a pipe rack in a pharma facility
Environmentally Friendly

Environmentally Friendly

Drone inspections are environmentally friendly, as they do not require the use of heavy equipment or the disruption of natural habitats. They also reduce the carbon footprint of inspections by minimizing the need for travel and transportation. They have a minimal impact on the environment and do not cause damage to sensitive ecosystems.

An aerial image of two pipe racks in an industrial facility
Reporting and Analysis

Reporting and Analysis

Our team of experts analyzes the data collected by our drones and provides comprehensive reports and recommendations based on our findings. Our reports include detailed information on the condition of pipes, potential issues, and recommended maintenance measures.

Why choose us?

Qualified engineers

As licensed engineers, we also provide the expertise, understanding, and knowledge necessary to carry out a thorough inspection, with deliverables to match. Our skilled engineers are at the ready.

IAA certification

The Irish Aviation Authority has awarded Engineers with Drones full approval in accordance with the most recent European-wide EASA regulations.

Latest technology

To ensure that you always get the best possible service and cutting-edge deliverables, we purchase the most up-to-date drone technology as soon as it's available.

Rigorous HSSE standards

The operation of Engineers With Drones is governed by a comprehensive HSSE system. Our guiding principles are to reduce risk through rigorous assessment, and to maintain a high level of staff education and training.

Fully insured

We have 6.5 million in public and product liability insurance, and 13 million in employers' liability insurance. Engineers with Drones are fully insured to fly wherever you need.

Based in Ireland

As we're situated in Ireland, we can respond to your needs quickly, with zero travel complications.

First-class deliverables

As seasoned engineers in the field, we are aware of the trouble that shoddy reports and deliverables can create. For this reason, we provide you with exactly what you require.

Quick turnaround times

Thanks to our fast turnaround times, your entire project can be completed in a fraction of the time of traditional methods, without any compromise in the quality of your deliverables.

4K and VR Footage

In addition to quadrupling the resolution of an HD camera, 4K also gives you quicker frame rates, incredible contrast variations, and expanded colours. VR video takes the level of immersion and clarity to the next level.

We have worked with...

Why use a drone for your drone pipeline inspection?

Safety

The safety of your personnel and our own is paramount, and we place it at the forefront of our company culture. Ask us about our HSSE systems and practices.

Hard-to-reach spaces

Drones aren't just for flying up in the sky. Our specialist drones can fly into confined spaces like chimneys and boilers to look for issues that would otherwise be inaccessible.

No traffic disruption

Downtime is expensive, unpopular and inconvenient. Using a drone, our engineers can conduct a thorough survey with little to no downtime.

No scaffolding or ropes

Drone technology is cheaper, safer and more reliable than traditional methods such as scaffolding, cherry-pickers and ropes. It's also quicker and less labour-intensive. We will bring everything we need and be out of your way that same day.

Cost-efficient

Drone inspections take up less of your manhours and resources than traditional inspections, giving you a faster and more budget-friendly return on your investment.

Quick turnaround

We understand that you need answers fast. We can deliver a plain-English report with clear-cut conclusions in days. Then, you can take the steps you need to and get back to doing what you do best.

Rapid response

Need us there in a hurry? No problem. Let us know what you need, and we can be there on the same day. After all, sometimes the problem just won't wait.

Real-time consulting

Sometimes the brief can change even in real-time. If need be, you can be stood there right next to the drone operator, directing them as the situation develops.

Faster and safer than manual inspection

Aerial drone inspections and surveys give you fast, safe and easy access to pipeline installations. The pipework does not need to be disturbed during the drone inspection. The work is carried out by our fully trained and certified pilots. We will produce a visual inspection report using drones equipped with advanced HD cameras and thermal imaging technology, giving our clients valuable insights into the pipe work condition. These insights enable you to make calculated decisions regarding maintenance, daily operations and repairs. This in turn will limit downtime in production.

A drone inspection of a pipe with corrosion on it
Efficient and safe pipe inspections

Comprehensive data collection

Improve the quality and detail of your inspection by using our services. Engineers With Drones can provide pipe rack inspections at heights and provide vantage points impossible to capture any other way. Hundreds of pictures allow you to analyse the status of your assets more accurately than traditional inspections, without putting employees or the inspection team at risk.

What can a UAV do for pipe inspections?

Overall, the use of drones for pipe leak detection offers several advantages, including increased safety, efficiency, and accuracy, as well as the ability to cover large areas quickly and access hard-to-reach locations. Drones can be used for pipe leak detection in the following ways:

Thermal imaging:

Drones equipped with thermal cameras can detect changes in temperature caused by leaks in pipelines. The thermal camera detects the difference in temperature between the pipeline and its surroundings, enabling the drone operator to pinpoint the location of the leak.

Gas detection:

Drones can also be equipped with gas sensors to detect leaks in pipelines that carry gases such as methane. The sensors can detect the concentration of gas in the air, allowing the operator to identify the location of the leak.

Visual inspection:

Drones can capture high-resolution images and video of pipelines and their surroundings, which can be analyzed for signs of leaks such as wet spots or discoloration. The images can also be used to identify areas where vegetation is dying due to leaks.

3D mapping:

Drones can create 3D models of pipelines and their surroundings using photogrammetry. These models can be used to identify areas where the pipeline is sagging or has shifted, which may indicate a leak.

Acoustic sensors:

Drones can be equipped with acoustic sensors that can detect the sound of leaks. The sensors can pick up the sound of gas or liquid escaping from the pipeline, allowing the operator to identify the location of the leak.

Monitoring:

We offer ongoing monitoring of pipelines and pipe racks using drones equipped with advanced sensors and analytics software. Our monitoring services provide real-time data on the condition of pipes, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing the risk of failure.

Pipeline inspection services for specific areas:

Overall condition

Valves and actuators

Lagging and insulation

Supporting Structures

Leaks

Corrosion and decay

Handrails and Platforms

Protective Coatings

Loose/missing parts

Why Use Drones for Pipeline and Pipe Rack Inspection and Monitoring?

Using drones for pipeline and pipe rack inspection and monitoring offers several benefits over traditional methods. Here are some of the key advantages:

Cost-Effective:

Drone inspection is more cost-effective than traditional methods, which can involve extensive scaffolding, cranes, and other heavy equipment. Drone inspections require minimal setup and can be completed quickly, reducing the need for costly downtime.

Safe:

Drone inspections eliminate the need for workers to access high-risk areas, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Drone inspections also minimize the need for shutdowns or other disruptions, ensuring the safety of workers and the public.

Accurate:

Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and other sensors that capture detailed images and data, enabling precise inspections and assessments. Our team of experts analyzes the data collected by the drones and provides comprehensive reports and recommendations based on our findings.

Efficient:

Drone inspections can cover large areas quickly and efficiently, reducing the time and resources needed for inspections. This allows for more frequent inspections, leading to more proactive maintenance and a longer lifespan for pipelines and pipe racks.

Versatility:

Drones can be fitted with various types of sensors and cameras to perform different types of inspections, including thermal imaging, gas detection, and 3D mapping. This versatility allows inspectors to detect potential problems that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Data analysis:

Drones can collect large amounts of data during inspections, which can be analyzed using advanced software and tools to identify trends and patterns. This helps inspectors make informed decisions about maintenance and repair needs, and can also help prevent future problems by identifying areas that may require increased monitoring.

We use the latest drone technology and analytics software to provide real-time data and insights, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing the risk of failure. We are also committed to safety, ensuring that our drone inspections are conducted in compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines. Contact us today to learn more about our drone inspection services for pipelines and pipe racks and to request a quote. Let Engineers With Drones help you optimize your maintenance program and ensure the safety and longevity of your assets.

What technology do we use for drone pipeline inspections?

We purchase the latest drones as they come on the market to ensure you are getting the highest quality service from us at all times. Here is a quick look at what we would be most likely to use for a typical drone drone pipeline inspection.

Our equipment
DJI MatriceM300 RTK M300 RTK by DJI

Our flagship drone: The M300 RTK by DJI is the premier enterprise-level inspection drone on the market. With a flight time of up to 55 minutes, lots of built-in redundancy, and a host of payloads to choose from, this is our go-to UAV for inspection work. When coupled with the Zenmuse H20T camera, it is capable of safely inspecting high-value assets at a stand-off range.

  • Drone
  • Camera
  • Thermal Imaging
  • Ultra HD
  • Long range
More info
Our equipment
MultinnovStereo 2 Stereo 2 confined space drone by Multinnov

The confined space master: The Stereo 2 by Multinnov is the cutting-edge in confined space and indoor inspection drone technology. Eliminating the need to send personnel into hazardous locations, the Multinnov Stereo 2 can be deployed at a fraction of the cost, and with zero downtime. This is a drone designed from the ground up to get into restrictive and hard-to-reach places.

  • Drone
  • Camera
  • Confined spaces
  • Indoors

People often ask us about...

Our Equipment
Check out our cutting-edge drone equipment and find out what it can do for you.

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IAA Certification
We are fully accredited by the Irish Aviation Authority to the latest European-wide EASA regulations.

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HSSE
Health and safety is a core principle of our business. Find out how we put these principles into practice.

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Fully insured
We hold 13m employers' liability insurance and 6.5m public & product liability insurance.

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Deliverables
Tell us what you need in your inbox, and we will start planning from there. Fully customised.

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Expert engineers
We are experienced engineers with strong technical backgrounds.

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Irish location
Based in Ireland, we'll be with you quickly - ready with all the correct permits.

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The Weather
Find out how we factor the weather into when we provide drone services.

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How does it work?

Reach out and tell us your idea

We take emails, phone calls, messages, everything! If you are unsure of what's possible we are happy to advise, the most important thing is to get in touch. We would be delighted to answer any questions you may have.

Start at the end

With drones, it's best to begin where you want to end up. What sort of deliverable would you like when it's all finished? If you are not sure then we can advise. We can look at what you would like and work backwards from there.

Scope of work and set a price

Once we have agreed on what is to be done, the scope of work is set and a price is agreed upon. We feel it is vital that everyone knows what they are getting and what they are paying for it. There should be no confusion.

Permits and other paperwork

Once we have confirmation you are happy to proceed, we start the ball rolling. We organise things like RAMS, site permits, Air Traffic Control clearance and much more. Basically, we generate everything needed to turn up on-site with all our ducks in a row.

Field Operations

Next, we do the work on site. We have the gear, we have the know-how, so now it's time to get the job done. This can sometimes be affected by the weather, but for the most part, we get the job done on the date specified.

Post Processing

This is where we take what we generated in the field and turn it into a final deliverable for you. This can be anything from the raw data itself, to fully processed Orthophotos, condition reports, CAD line work or thermal imagery.

Handover

The final step is the handover of the deliverables. We tend to use a cloud-based service, so you can access your data anywhere. We can also tie into your existing systems if that is more convenient.

Get a quote

Our Services Not just photos from the sky

Spoiler alert: we don't do weddings! We're professional engineers who have learned to fly drones really well. If you're looking for a photo of your garden or a swooshing shot of your wedding reception, we're probably not the right people for you. But if you need an engineer's eyes and experience, combined with next-generation UAV technology and industry-leading deliverables, then you've come to the right place.

Drone Photography

Capture high-quality imagery of your assets from never before seen vantage points.

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Thermal Imaging

Detect abnormalities within your assets that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.

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Photogrammetry

Capture real-world locations and assets digitally, for quicker and more cost-efficient inspections.

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All assets and industries

Our specialities don't begin and end with drone pipeline inspections, we perform surveys and inspections across a wide variety of industries. Click on an asset or industry below to find out more.

A UAV performing a drone bridge inspection on an old stone road bridge

Bridge Inspections

Safer, more cost-efficient, with less downtime

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A UAV performing a drone building inspection

Building Inspections

Clearer, faster results without the risks

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A DJI inspection drone inspecting the wall of a coastal pier

Coastal Infrastructure

Monitor coastal assets safely and with more precision

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A confined space drone inspection with a Flyability Elios 2 drone

Confined Space Drone Inspections

Eliminate safety concerns, save costs and reduce downtime

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An image of a construction site taken by a drone performing drone services for construction.

Construction Services

Instant, actionable data with no downtime

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A drone performing a wind turbine inspection

Energy Inspections

Inspect and maintain energy assets without risk or downtime

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TODO

Farm Mapping Services

Accurate and efficient analysis of crops and land

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An aerial image of an oil refinery taken with a drone conducting a flare stack inspection

Flare Inspections

Safer and more cost-efficient flare (oil and gas) inspections

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A photo of an agricultural field taken with a drone

Forestry and Agricultural

Faster, cheaper and more accurate analysis of land

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todo

Forestry Mapping

Faster, cheaper and more accurate analysis of land

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An old round martello tower building taken with a drone

Historical Buildings

Analyse historical buildings without risk to people or property

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A photo of a load of industrial chimneys taken with a drone

Industrial Chimneys

Actionable data from a safe distance, with less downtime

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A photo of industrial infrastructure taken with a drone during an inspection

Industrial Inspections

Keep production running while collecting instant critical data

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An image of a damaged building taken by a drone performing drone services for insurance.

Insurance Services

Record and document reliable visuals without safety concerns

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A view of the landscape taken by a drone on a survey

Landscape Inspections

Endless perspectives, without manned aircrafts or structures

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A photo of a cell phone tower taken with a drone

Line of Sight Surveys

Reduced risk, damage to towers and delays

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A photo of a quarry taken with a drone

Mines, Quarry and Landfill

Monitor status and progress without downtime

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A photo of an oil refinery taken with a drone during an inspection

Oil & Gas Inspections

Fast, actionable data without the risks of traditional inspections

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A close-up photo of an electrical pylon taken during a drone inspection

Power Grid Inspections

Instantly usable data via a safer and more cost-effective process

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A photo of a railway tracks and a bridge taken with a drone

Rail Inspections

Eliminates downtime and safety concerns, at a fraction of the cost

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A house next to a river taken by a drone performing drone real estate services

Real Estate Drone Services

Add "Wow Factor" to residential and commercial property listings

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A photo of a river taken with a drone during an inspection

Rivers and Waterways

Safer, more precise data collection at a fraction of the cost

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A drone performing a roof inspection

Roof Inspections

Accurate, safe and instantly actionable data collection

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A photo taken by a drone of rooftop solar panels during an inspection

Rooftop Solar Inspections

Ensure solar panel efficiency from precise data collection

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A photo of a ship being inspected by a drone

Ships and Marine

Safe, precise and instant reports on vessels and infrastructure

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Solar panels being inspected by a drone

Solar Farms

Get actionable data on quality and operational health

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An image of a storm-damaged building and roof taken by a drone during a storm damage inspection.

Storm Damage

Assess damage quickly and with pinpoint accuracy

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A photo of a storage tank being inspected by a drone

Tanks, Silos and Vessel Inspections

Get fast, usable data from a safe distance

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A telecommunications tower being inspected by a drone

Telecommunications

Get critical data on cell and telecommunication infrastructure

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A drone performing an inspection of a communications tower

Tower Inspections

Instantly view complex structures, keeping risks to a minimum

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A photo of a water tower taken by a drone during an inspection

Water Tower Inspections

Critical, pinpoint details with none of the risk

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A drone inspecting a wind turbine in ireland

Wind Turbine Inspections

A more cost- and time-effective way to receive critical data

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