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# Analyzing a 35-Meter Dam Surge Tank Using the Elios 3 in Canada
## Benefits in a Nutshell
In today’s world, innovation often meets necessity, and this was evident when the Elios 3 drone was deployed to inspect a 35-meter surge tank at the Taltson Hydro Plant in Canada. Let’s break down the benefits this project yielded:
### Safety
One of the most significant advantages was ensuring safety. The team was able to inspect and plan maintenance for the surge tank without needing to physically climb or enter the structure. By leveraging the Elios 3, they could perform inspections remotely from the ground, significantly reducing risks associated with working at heights.
### Efficiency
Another key takeaway was efficiency. The drone completed its inspection in just 7 minutes. This short flight provided comprehensive data that helped the team map out the most effective rope access routes. Instead of spending days estimating or relying on outdated plans, the team could rely on accurate, up-to-date visuals and measurements to plan their next steps.
### Accuracy
Accuracy was paramount for this project. The Elios 3 revealed discrepancies between the actual state of the surge tank and its original design documents. Specifically, parts of the structure, like certain bolts and screws, were either corroded or missing. Additionally, the T-Joint was constructed differently than initially planned, which was crucial information for recalibrating flow calculations and ensuring the tank’s integrity post-upgrade.
### Collaboration
Collaboration between different experts played a pivotal role in this project. The rope access specialists, led by Mark Nevison, worked closely with the drone inspection team to ensure safe and efficient maintenance operations. This collaboration meant that the rope specialists could move quickly and confidently, knowing they had precise data to guide their efforts.
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## Planning for Future Upgrades of a Hydroelectric Plant with Drone Mapping
Hydroelectric power remains a cornerstone of renewable energy. However, as technology evolves, so too must our infrastructure. The Taltson Hydro Plant, located along the Taltson River in the Northwest Territories of Canada, is undergoing a major refurbishment. This includes upgrading the turbine and generator to boost the plant’s maximum capacity from 18 MW to 22 MW.
Part of this extensive overhaul involves inspecting every aspect of the water conveyance system, with special attention paid to the penstock surge tank. As a critical component that dampens pressure fluctuations during turbine operation, understanding the tank’s current condition and flow capacity is essential.
The data collected during these inspections is invaluable for guiding future upgrades. A multidisciplinary team was assembled to gather this critical information. Among them were Mark Horton from Dimension Consulting, Yannick Methot of GTA Hydro, and Mark Nevison of Crux Trades, a rope access specialist.
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## Including Drones in Inspection Workflows
Courtland Penk of Osprey Integrity, a leading drone service provider, was brought in to capture detailed visual and LiDAR imagery of the surge tank. Accessing the site was no easy feat—located deep within the Canadian wilderness, the only way to reach it was via small aircraft.
Despite the logistical challenges, the Elios 3 drone excelled in capturing high-quality data both inside the confined space of the surge tank and throughout the surrounding infrastructure. Its ability to navigate tight spaces and capture intricate details made it an ideal choice for this project.
The drone flight took only 7 minutes to complete, yet it delivered invaluable insights. Not only did the Elios 3 provide stunning visuals of the tank’s interior, but it also generated precise LiDAR data that could be used for 3D modeling and further analysis.
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## Results of the Elios 3 Surge Tank Inspection
Once the data was captured, initial processing was done using software like CloudCompare and Metashape. These tools allowed the team to extract detailed 3D scans of the surge tank. These scans were then shared with a third-party contractor for advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis.
The results were eye-opening. For instance, the team discovered that several structural components, such as bolts securing ropes, had corroded over time. This discovery prompted adjustments in the rope access plan, ensuring worker safety during subsequent maintenance activities. Additionally, the T-Joint was found to differ from the original design specifications, necessitating recalibration of the tank’s operational parameters.
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## Impact of a Drone Inspection
This drone-assisted inspection underscored the importance of integrating modern technology into traditional workflows. By combining drone data with rope access expertise, the team achieved a balance of safety and efficiency.
Courtland and his team at Osprey Integrity not only delivered more than anticipated but also streamlined the entire refurbishment process. Thanks to their efforts, the Taltson Hydro Plant will soon return online with enhanced capabilities, providing reliable energy to the local community.
This project serves as a testament to the transformative potential of drones in industries like hydroelectric power. As we continue to push boundaries, tools like the Elios 3 will undoubtedly play a growing role in shaping the future of infrastructure management.
For more insights into the Elios 3 and its applications, stay tuned!