When we talk about an industrial plant, a tank, a chimney, a bridge or a wind turbine, it is essential to know their actual condition. An inspection enables potential faults to be detected at an early stage and provides reliable information before a decision is made on whether action is required.
In recent years, digital transformation has driven the adoption of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced image analysis and industrial drones, tools that are improving the way inspections are carried out. These tools do not replace the professional’s judgement. Rather, they help them to work with more information and identify more quickly what requires attention.
Artificial intelligence for industrial inspections
A huge amount of information can be gathered during an industrial inspection. Artificial intelligence makes it possible to process this information more quickly and identify patterns that may indicate an anomaly. For the inspector, this provides an initial guide to help them determine where it is worth stopping to carry out a more thorough analysis.
Faster and more accurate industrial inspections
Inspecting a large structure can generate hundreds of images. Reviewing all that documentation takes time and attention. Artificial intelligence can help to carry out an initial classification of that information and highlight potential issues, so that the technician can focus on the areas requiring a more detailed review.
This enables technicians to focus their work on interpreting the results and assessing the actual condition of the structure, thereby optimising available resources and improving the planning of future measures.
Image analysis using artificial intelligence
One of the most significant advances is image analysis using artificial intelligence algorithms. Using photographs taken during an inspection, the technology can identify patterns consistent with corrosion, cracks, deformations or material loss, thereby facilitating the detection of defects using AI.
This initial classification streamlines the inspector’s work and enables them to prioritise those areas that require a more thorough inspection. This increases the efficiency of the process and reduces the time needed to inspect large areas or structures that are difficult to access.
AI as a support tool in industrial non-destructive testing
Artificial intelligence is also beginning to be integrated into industrial non-destructive testing, complementing techniques such as visual inspection, thermography and ultrasonics. Indeed, when there is a large amount of data to review, AI can serve as a second line of support in identifying potential anomalies and drawing attention to specific data or areas of the structure.
However, it is important to emphasise that AI acts as a support tool. The interpretation of results and decision-making continue to depend on the expertise of professionals.
Artificial intelligence and predictive maintenance of structures
Artificial intelligence not only improves the quality of inspections, but also adds significant value to infrastructure maintenance planning.
Preventive industrial maintenance versus predictive maintenance
Traditionally, preventive industrial maintenance involves carrying out periodic inspections according to a set schedule, regardless of the actual condition of the plant. This system helps to reduce breakdowns, but it can lead to unnecessary interventions or, conversely, fail to detect deterioration that occurs between two scheduled inspections.
A comparison of predictive maintenance with preventative maintenance reveals a fundamental difference: decisions are based on data obtained during inspections and on the actual condition of the assets, enabling actions to be planned with greater precision.
The aim and benefits of predictive maintenance
The main aim of predictive maintenance is to anticipate faults before they affect the operation of a facility. To this end, the data collected during inspections is analysed to identify trends that may indicate progressive deterioration.
The main benefits of predictive maintenance include a reduction in unplanned breakdowns, the optimisation of resources and improved asset lifecycle management, as it enables maintenance work to be scheduled at the most appropriate time and extends the service life of infrastructure.
Data-driven maintenance optimisation
The combination of regular inspections and artificial intelligence facilitates a much more efficient approach to maintenance. Let’s imagine that a tank is inspected regularly. Comparing the images taken this year with those from previous inspections makes it possible to check whether an area of corrosion remains stable or is spreading. This monitoring helps to assess the actual condition of the structure and to prioritise actions according to the level of risk detected.
This data-driven approach to predictive maintenance helps to assess the actual condition of the structure, reduces operating costs and improves the availability of the facilities.
Industrial inspections using drones: a key tool for data collection
Industrial inspections using drones have established themselves as an effective solution for accessing complex areas, improving workplace safety and obtaining high-quality data for subsequent analysis.
Current applications of industrial drones
The use of drones today encompasses the inspection of tanks, chimneys, industrial roofs, bridges, towers and wind turbines, amongst other infrastructure. Thanks to their high-resolution cameras, industrial drones can capture images and videos in great detail without the need to erect scaffolding or physically access certain locations.
Benefits of using industrial drones
The advantage of using drones is not merely that they reduce inspection time. Being able to survey an area first using a drone helps to minimise workers’ exposure and provides information before deciding whether a more thorough on-site inspection is necessary.
Furthermore, compiling high-quality images improves technical documentation and makes it easier to monitor the condition of infrastructure over time, thereby facilitating better planning of maintenance work.
Drones for structural inspection
Drones used for structural inspection represent a significant advance in the way industrial structures are inspected. Their ability to gather visual information from different angles enables more comprehensive assessments to be carried out and provides data that can subsequently be analysed using artificial intelligence tools.
The combination of drones, image analysis and technical expertise is driving a new approach to industrial inspections. This enables technicians to enter the analysis phase with more information and focus their attention where it is really needed.
This not only saves time. In certain jobs, it also means reducing operators’ exposure to heights or hard-to-reach areas even before it is known whether there is an issue requiring an on-site inspection.
Although technology is changing the way inspections are carried out, one thing remains the same: the need for professionals who are able to interpret what is happening within a structure and make the right decisions. At La Línea Vertical, we are committed to incorporating these new tools without losing sight of what matters most: people’s safety and the reliability of the facilities.