Inspection tools are essential for gathering critical data that ensures the safety, efficiency, and longevity of industrial and mechanical systems. These tools enable inspectors to assess the condition of equipment, identify potential issues, and make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs. The data collected can vary widely, including visual, thermal, or thickness measurements. The specific type of data required for an inspection depends on the asset being inspected and the inspection's objectives, which in turn determines the tools needed for the job. Once data is gathered, inspectors analyze it to understand the current state of the asset and decide if any maintenance or intervention is necessary. In this article, inspection tools refer to the instruments and devices used by inspectors to collect data directly. For example, a thickness-measuring sensor used to evaluate the wall of a coke drum or a drone equipped with a camera to gather visual data from hard-to-reach areas. Inspection equipment, on the other hand, includes everything that supports the inspection process, such as toolbelts, scaffolding, ropes, or other aids that allow inspectors to access and collect data more effectively. [Related read: Confined Space Equipment: A Guide] Whether it's a large industrial boiler or a residential HVAC system, the fundamental process remains the same: While the concept is simple, the range of tools available is vast, often categorized by the type of data they capture or the environment in which they operate. For instance, robotics solutions may be grouped by whether they are aerial, ground-based, or submersible rather than by the type of data they collect. This is because a single robot can be equipped with multiple sensors, allowing it to gather various types of data depending on the task at hand. Now, let’s take a closer look at the different types of inspection tools commonly used in the field.  Visual data is one of the most frequently collected types during inspections. Cameras are the go-to tool for capturing this data, but not all cameras are suitable for every inspection. The choice of camera should depend on the quality and clarity of images required for the task. Here are some common visual data collection tools used in inspections: While visual data is common, many inspections require additional data types. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods and specialized sensors are often used to gather this information. A great example of how multiple tools and NDT methods can be combined is the inspection conducted by Premium Inspection & Testing in Louisiana. They used drones and rope access to inspect a coke drum without building scaffolding, saving their client $250,000 in the process. Here’s how they did it: 1. Visual data collected by drone Using Flyability’s Elios 2 drone, they first captured visual data inside the coker to identify areas of concern. 2. Corrosion and other data collected via rope access Inspectors then used rope access to perform detailed tests, including 3D scanning, phased array testing, and liquid penetrant testing to check for surface defects and corrosion. This case highlights the importance of combining different tools and methods to gather comprehensive data efficiently and safely. Some examples of NDT methods include: These methods are vital for ensuring the integrity and safety of critical infrastructure and machinery. Robots are increasingly being used in inspection tasks due to their ability to access dangerous or hard-to-reach areas. There are three main categories of robotic solutions used in inspections: Drones have become a popular tool for Remote Visual Inspection (RVI), allowing inspectors to collect data from locations that would otherwise be difficult or unsafe to access. They can also be equipped with thermal or other sensors to collect additional data types. There are several key benefits to using drones and other robots for inspections: Indoor drones, like the Flyability Elios 3, are designed to navigate confined spaces, while outdoor drones, such as the DJI Matrice 300, are built for open-air environments. Ground-based robots are another form of RVI tool that can be used in a variety of inspection scenarios. Some examples include: Submersible robots are also gaining popularity in the inspection industry, especially for underwater or liquid-filled environments. These robots reduce the risks associated with diving operations and can access areas that are otherwise unreachable. MASKI+ The Maski+ remotely operated vehicle is used by HydroQuebec to inspect hydro dams in turbulent or deep water conditions. INTERO TANK EXPLORER The Intero Tank Explorer is an intrinsically safe robot used in petrochemical storage tanks. It can inspect tank walls while the tank is still in operation, detecting thickness inconsistencies and providing real-time imaging. Future inspections will benefit from a wider range of robotic tools, including advanced NDT sensors. For example, robot-mounted ultrasonic testing tools are already being used in various industries. Additionally, new robots are being developed to inspect hazardous or inaccessible areas, such as aging sewage systems. Some of these robots even come equipped with tools to fix the defects they identify, such as water-jet cutters and UV-curable patches. Measuring devices are essential for collecting precise data about the dimensions of objects or structures. These tools range from simple hand-held calipers to advanced digital gauges. For example, calipers are widely used for measuring depth, length, and internal or external dimensions of components. Common measuring devices include: As the volume of data collected during inspections increases, managing and analyzing this data becomes a growing challenge. That’s where inspection software comes into play. Innovations in data collection and management are transforming the way inspectors work. Software like Flyability Inspector 3.0 now offers 3D modeling capabilities, allowing inspectors to create quick models of the assets they’re inspecting and pinpoint defects with greater accuracy. New-generation software solutions are capable of processing vast amounts of data more efficiently. With the integration of AI and machine learning, these tools can quickly analyze data and provide actionable insights. For instance, sewer inspection software automatically identifies potential defects from uploaded images, streamlining the inspection process. Whether through innovation or refinement, every advancement in inspection software contributes to safer and more efficient inspections for everyone involved. Titanium Banjo Bolts,Titanium Banjo Screw,Titanium Banjo Single Bolt,Titanium Banjo Screw Bolts Baoji Qiyuexin Metal Material Co., Ltd. , https://www.qyxtitanium.comInspection Tools: A Guide to the Tools Inspectors Use in Their Daily Work
Inspection tools help inspectors collect the data they need to ensure the proper maintenance of the assets they're inspecting—Read this guide for an overview of the different types of inspection tools they use.
Inspection Tools vs. Inspection Equipment
Cameras and Other Visual Data Collection Tools
A borescope being used to inspect a car engine
Other NDT Sensors and Testing Methods
Ropes and Drones Case Study
NDT Sensors and Testing Methods
Robots
Drones / Aerial Solutions
Why use RVI tools?
Indoor vs. Outdoor Drones
Flyability’s Elios 3, an indoor drone for confined space inspections
DJI's Matrice 300, an outdoor drone used in inspectionsGround-Based Robotic Solutions
Inuktun MaggHD
The Inuktun MaggHD is a magnetic crawler used for remote visual inspections in hazardous areas.Deep Trekker DT320
The Deep Trekker DT320 is ideal for inspecting pipes and small spaces where manual access is limited.Inuktun Versatrax 150
The Inuktun Versatrax 150 is a long-range inspection system used for tanks and wastewater infrastructure.Submersible Robots
Recent Advances in Robotics
Measuring Devices
Inspection Software
Improved Data Collection Software
Data Management Tools