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13 Jul 2022

Robotics & UAVs

Chimera robot to cut cost of pressure vessel inspection

Engineers aim to reduce risk to life and save companies money with Chimera, a robot being developed to inspect pressure vessels.

Chimera has been devised to inspect pressure vessels safely and more cost effective across industries - Forth

Internal pressure vessel inspections are carried routinely, but the process of closing production, depressurising the vessel and transporting any fluids or liquids can cost a company over £1m within a few days. These inspections are currently carried out by humans and carry a high level of risk.

To combat these problems, the remotely controlled Chimera robot is being developed by a collaboration of UK companies for use across industries including oil and gas and nuclear.

The tethered Chimera is built in two components, giving it the flexibility required to climb internal vessel walls. The robot will have a camera attached to relay live images back to the operator and an ultrasonic phased array inspection system and LIDAR scanner will also be included to create a 3D map of the pressure vessel’s internal structure. A ‘snake’ arm can also be attached to carry out any minor repairs needed in such a confined space.

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