Efficiency Takes Flight: Drones Reshape Dam Safety Inspections - Starx91

Drone technology is playing an important role within dam safety inspections.

More and more organizations are using drones to conduct dam inspections due to their ability to access challenging areas, including remote zones and the upper parts of the structure, while ensuring the safety of inspectors. Organizations can perform these inspections at a significantly reduced cost and with minimal manual effort and required manpower in the field. The earlier time requirement of many hours or days can be reduced by as much as 90%.

Thermal imaging is one of the most valuable applications of drone technology in dam and weir inspections. By using drones equipped with thermal cameras, inspectors can quickly and accurately identify areas of the structure that may be experiencing temperature fluctuations or other anomalies.

Drone inspections have transformed dam safety assessments, offering significant advantages, as highlighted by Trihydro, a leading authority in the field.

Advantages of Dam Inspection by Drones:

1. Swift and Efficient Data Capture:
   Drones rapidly capture high-quality imagery and data in short timeframes. Field flight times vary from minutes to hours, minimizing delays compared to traditional methods that take days.
2. Agility in Challenging Environments:
   Drones navigate hazardous or inaccessible areas with ease. Equipped with multirotor capabilities, they hover and focus cameras on points of interest or potential concerns.
3. Enhanced Safety Measures:
   Drone inspections keep operators away from hazardous zones. Operators can evaluate data through live feeds or review it safely after the flight.
4. Diverse and Comprehensive Deliverables:
   Drones can be equipped with various sensors, such as high-definition video, thermal-infrared, multispectral, and LiDAR, Thus enabling comprehensive dam inspections beyond visual assessments.

Photogrammetry software transforms overlapping photos into 3D point clouds and terrain models for detailed analysis and design. The scaling of aerial images to fit the terrain creates spatially-accurate visuals for CAD and GIS applications. Overlaying thermal and multispectral imagery on 3D models enables advanced analysis.

5. Cost Savings and Resource Optimization:
   Drone inspections significantly reduce field time and costs compared to traditional methods like rope or crane access. They optimize resource allocation and eliminate the need for extensive preparations and permits.

Trihydro’s UAS professionals have conducted over 1,000 flights, mapping vast areas exceeding 30,000 acres. Drone applications in dam and reservoir projects include volumetric surveying, topographic mapping, structure condition assessments, change detection, flood hazard mapping, vegetation assessment and monitoring, and cultural resources/archaeological documentation.

Drone technology has transformed the landscape of dam safety inspections. With their ability to access remote and challenging areas, drones offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for assessing and ensuring the integrity of critical infrastructure. By reducing manual effort and manpower requirements, while delivering accurate and detailed data, drones have become invaluable tools in safeguarding dams and mitigating risks. Embracing this innovative technology opens new horizons for enhanced safety and informed decision-making, paving the way for a more secure future in dam management.