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Plant Equipment Inspection Service

Service Inquiries

NHK Spring's pipe support system

Inspection by Drone

We have launched an inspection service that draws on our extensive experience with plant “pipe supports.” Utilizing high-performance drones, the service enables detailed evaluation of rust damage and identification of loose bolts on pipe supports, all through video analysis.

・Customers requesting plant equipment inspections
In LNG plants, petrochemical plants, power plants, and similar facilities, our service can inspect not only pipe supports but also equipment located in explosion-proof area and at elevated heights. Please note, however, that drone inspections may not be possible in areas where pipe supports are concealed by piping or other equipment.

・Customers requesting inspections of factory exterior walls and roofs

・Customers requesting aerial photography
We can provide aerial photography of buildings and surrounding areas, such as exterior shots for new factory opening ceremonies.

Image (Explosion-proof area)

① Long-range inspections by high-performance camera

With a high-performance camera, we can inspect even the smallest issues, such as rust-related deterioration of pipe supports or loosened bolts. In addition, areas where drone flight is difficult, such as explosion-proof zones (locations with fire or explosion risks), can still be inspected safely from a distance using the drone’s advanced camera. The camera offers up to 200x zoom capability.

Image (Group of flare stacks emitting smoke and flames)

② Eliminates the need for scaffolding, reducing both time and cost

Traditionally, scaffolding was essential for high-altitude inspections, such as tank walls or flare stacks. By utilizing drones, these inspections eliminate the need for scaffolding, making the process easier while significantly reducing both time and cost.

Inspection Process	Responsible Party	Time Required
① Initial Assessment	Customers & NHK Spring	-
② On-site Confirmation – Identifying inspection points and flight area	Customers & NHK Spring	Approx. 1 day
③ Flight Plan Preparation & Submission	NHK Spring	Approx. 1 week
④ Flight Plan Approval	Customer	-
⑤ Notification to MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism) and other relevant authorities	NHK Spring	Approx. 1-3 days
⑥ Inspection Execution	Customers & NHK Spring	Approx. 1 day (depending on weather)
⑦ Captured Data Delivery	NHK Spring	Immediate