Storage Bin Inspection Using the Elios 3 at a Mine

How can drones improve the safety and efficiency of storage bin inspections? MIS Aero showcased the benefits of using the Elios 3 drone to a major mining client in Oman, demonstrating how it can transform traditional inspection methods.

Key Benefits at a Glance

Speed With the Elios 3, the inspection was completed in just 4 days instead of the usual 15. This dramatic reduction in time significantly improved project turnaround.	Safety The Elios 3 eliminated the need for personnel to enter confined spaces, reducing exposure to dust and high-altitude risks. This ensured the team's safety while still collecting essential data.
Data Quality MIS Aero delivered full 3D models of the storage bins, including detailed points of interest. This made maintenance planning more accurate and efficient.	Access The Elios 3 allowed access to multiple entry points and covered the entire interior of the storage bins. Its maneuverability gave pilots confidence during flights.

Safe mining operations go beyond just the tunnels and quarries—they also involve critical equipment like storage bins and crushers. Regular and effective maintenance is key to ensuring both safety and productivity in mining environments.

However, inspecting certain assets, such as large storage bins, can be very challenging. High structures and dust accumulation often make manual inspections difficult and dangerous. A mining company in Oman sought a better way to safely inspect their storage bins and reduce the time required for these tasks.

What Is a Standard Storage Bin Inspection?

A mining company in Oman needed to conduct internal visual inspections of their storage bins to identify any damage or defects in the polyethylene lining inside the tanks.

Traditionally, this involved inspectors entering the bins using rope access systems, which posed significant risks due to height, poor visibility, and dusty conditions. The process was time-consuming, taking up to 15 days per inspection. The mine operator wanted a safer, faster alternative.

The storage bins, standing at 40 meters, present significant challenges without additional access equipment.

Drones for Storage Bin Inspections – The Elios 3 Solution

MIS Aero, a specialized service provider with experience in both internal and external inspections, was tasked with finding a safer and more efficient solution. As the sole owner of the Elios 3 in Oman, they had the tools and expertise to deliver results quickly and safely.

By using the Elios 3, the team eliminated the need for rope access and enabled fast, accurate data collection. The mine operator was looking for a reliable way to inspect the storage bins without putting their staff at risk.

The Elios 3 flying back down to the inspectors.

Planning Flights Inside Storage Bins

The Elios 3 is specifically designed for confined space inspections. Its combination of LiDAR and visual data allows it to navigate complex environments like dusty storage bins safely and effectively.

MIS Aero created custom flight plans to cover all seven 40-meter-tall storage bins. They used multiple entry points and range extenders to ensure complete coverage without requiring anyone to enter the bins. They also worked closely with the mine’s team to identify potential obstacles and ensure safe flight paths.

The Elios 3 pilot and an inspector look for points of interest during the flight.

After completing the flights, the data was processed using Inspector 4 to generate a detailed report. The client reviewed the findings and was highly satisfied with the level of detail and accuracy.

One of the most impressive features was the geolocation of points of interest within the 3D point cloud. This helped engineers and maintenance teams pinpoint exactly where issues were and plan repairs efficiently. It also improved communication across teams by providing a shared visual reference.

Setting a New Standard for Storage Bin Inspections

The mine operator’s decision to adopt innovative technology, combined with MIS Aero’s expertise, led to a much safer and faster inspection process. By eliminating unnecessary rope access and cutting down on inspection time, the project reduced downtime and improved overall site efficiency.

The LiDAR scan includes points of interest (POI) identified during the flight, allowing the client to compare the location of each POI with the corresponding photo taken by the Elios 3.

This successful project opened new opportunities for MIS Aero, introducing them to a new client and setting the stage for future collaborations. It marked the first of its kind in Oman and highlighted the growing potential of drone technology in the mining sector. With continued innovation, the future of mining inspections looks brighter—and safer—than ever.

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