BacMan geothermal field, Bicol, Philippines
Drone brand DJI has released a video highlighting the use of drones to inspect surface facilities at EDC's BacMan geothermal site in the Philippines.
A video posted on DJI Enterprise's YouTube channel highlights the use of the DJI Dock 2 to inspect surface facilities at the Energy Development Corporation's (EDC) BacMan geothermal site in the Philippines.
Although EDC had been using drones for documentation since 2016, it was only recently that they began using more advanced drone technology to inspect pipelines and transmission towers. This has allowed the company to make its operations more efficient, carrying out more regular inspections while reducing workload and improving workplace safety.
EDC had recently expanded the generation capacity of the BacMan geothermal field with a new 28.9 MW binary power plant.
Faster and safer inspection
Because approximately 40 kilometers of pipeline are used to support the 209 MW of installed geothermal power generation capacity at the BacMan site, manual inspection using portable thermal imaging cameras takes a long time and is very resource intensive. It also exposes personnel to hazards such as high altitudes, steep terrain and the need to be near very hot (up to 170°C) steam pipes.
However, pipeline inspection is critical to maintaining optimal operation of the geothermal system. Piping can corrode, leading to insulation degradation, heat loss and leaks. These leaks can reduce power output. In the worst case, leaks can worsen and lead to pipe explosions. Such risks can be reduced at an early stage through a thorough and consistent inspection.
Using a drone for inspection has allowed EDC to optimize its operations and streamline its workflow. The drone can be controlled remotely, is housed in a weatherproof dock and can fly autonomously based on preset waypoints. Inspecting all 40 kilometers of pipeline, which would take years if done manually, can now be completed in just a few days.
Watch the video below to learn more about how EDC is using advanced drone technology to improve geothermal operations at the BacMan site in the Philippines.
Source: DJI Enterprise via YouTube
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