# Unlocking NDT Inspections for Power Generation with the Elios 3 VZÚ Plzeň, a leading provider of robotic inspection services based in the Czech Republic, has transformed power generation inspections with the Elios 3. This advanced drone is revolutionizing how inspections are carried out at power plants, offering unprecedented safety, efficiency, and accuracy. ## Key Benefits at a Glance ### Safety First The Elios 3 has allowed VZÚ Plzeň to conduct inspections in hazardous environments like cooling towers and confined spaces without risking human lives. Instead of relying on scaffolding or sending personnel up high, their team operates the drone remotely from a safe distance. "With the Elios 3, we've eliminated the need for rope access technicians and scaffolding," says Filip Schmidt, the lead drone operator at VZÚ Plzeň. "This has made our work much safer and more efficient." ### Efficiency Gains In a recent project at a power plant, VZÚ Plzeň utilized the Elios 3 to inspect 16,000 specific points of interest across four cooling towers in just ten days. This task would have traditionally taken weeks, if not months, with conventional methods. "The drone allowed us to complete the inspections during the planned downtime without any disruptions," adds Schmidt. The Elios 3’s ability to cover large areas quickly ensures minimal downtime for the plant, translating into significant cost savings. ### Precision Matters When dealing with structures as tall as 100 meters, precision is crucial. The Elios 3's data localization technology ensures that each point of interest is accurately identified and located. This level of detail is invaluable for planning maintenance work. Schmidt notes, "The Elios 3 has given us the tools to perform inspections with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring that any repairs are targeted and effective." ### Business Growth By integrating drones into their NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) workflows, VZÚ Plzeň has gained a competitive edge. Their clients appreciate the high-quality data and quick turnaround times, which has led to new business opportunities. "The Elios 3 has opened doors for us in terms of client acquisition and project expansion," Schmidt explains. "Clients trust us because we deliver superior results." ## Understanding NDT Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is a broad field of techniques used to inspect materials or assets without causing any damage. It plays a vital role in industries like power generation, where maintaining critical assets is essential to prevent failures and accidents. Through NDT, operators can gather valuable insights to optimize asset management and ensure long-term reliability. ## Transforming Power Plant Inspections VZÚ Plzeň began exploring drone-based NDT after attending a Flyability training session in Lausanne. They quickly transitioned from the Elios 2 to the more advanced Elios 3. "The Elios 3 has streamlined our operations significantly," Schmidt remarks. "From piloting to data collection, everything feels smoother and more efficient." Initially, some power plant managers were skeptical about drones replacing traditional inspection methods. However, VZÚ Plzeň’s success stories—where they delivered accurate data while saving time and money—have won over even the most reluctant clients. Today, VZÚ Plzeň uses the Elios 3 extensively for indoor inspections in power generation facilities. Their inspection portfolio includes boilers, evaporators, burners, and even wind turbines. The Elios 3’s versatility and reliability have made it an indispensable tool for their team. ## Streamlining Boiler Inspections Boilers pose unique challenges for inspectors due to their size and complexity. Traditional methods often involve erecting scaffolding, which leads to extended downtime and safety risks. With the Elios 3, VZÚ Plzeň can conduct comprehensive inspections in a matter of hours. For example, during a recent inspection, the drone revealed that certain parts of the boiler required maintenance, allowing VZÚ Plzeň to direct the scaffolding only where necessary. This approach minimized downtime and optimized resource allocation. Schmidt shares, "The Elios 3 has transformed how we approach boiler inspections, making them safer, faster, and more cost-effective." ## Evaluating Flue Gas Ducting At another site, VZÚ Plzeň faced the daunting task of assessing the condition of flue gas ducting. Steel guides had been installed to protect the ducts, but corrosion had worn them down to dangerous levels. Rope access inspections were impossible, leaving the Elios 3 as the ideal solution. The drone provided detailed imagery and measurements, revealing severe erosion in some sections. Thanks to the Elios 3, VZÚ Plzeň was able to deliver actionable insights without exposing their team to unnecessary risks. ## 300 Flights Inside a Cooling Tower In early 2023, VZÚ Plzeň conducted an unprecedented inspection of a power plant's cooling towers. Over ten days, they performed 300 flights, mapping approximately 16,000 points of interest. The sheer volume of data required meticulous analysis. To ensure clarity, VZÚ Plzeň cataloged all findings, pinpointing exact locations and assigning severity ratings. This level of detail provided plant managers with actionable insights, helping them prioritize maintenance tasks effectively. ## Building Trust in Drone Inspections VZÚ Plzeň’s success with the Elios 3 has established them as pioneers in drone-assisted NDT. By reducing downtime, cutting costs, and enhancing safety, they’ve earned the trust of their clients. Schmidt reflects, "Our journey with the Elios 3 has not only enhanced our operational efficiency but also changed how we're perceived in the industry. We’re committed to delivering excellence in every inspection we conduct." Looking ahead, VZÚ Plzeň aims to expand their drone inspection services to more power generation sites across the Czech Republic. Their goal is to empower clients with faster, safer, and more cost-effective inspection solutions. Discover more about the Elios 3 and its transformative applications in the power generation sector.

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