Page 29 - Gi flipbook May 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

M1 Live Gas Main Inspection Robot
distribution network. This is because
the presence of these internal seals
and their associated hardware
prevented the passage of crawlers.
Historical records used to plan
these critical replacement works
contain some information on the
location of the seals, but it can be
intermittently available and is not
always clear. A live inspection to
accurately map the location of the
seals – and any other features which
could impact on the insertion of the
new PE pipes – has become a critical
part of the planning and execution
process for mains replacement works.

DEVELOPMENT AND
FIELD TRIALS
In 2016, ULC Robotics and tRIIO Road and Brompton Road. On-site less disruptive road work, the
began working together to develop personnel from tRIIO, Cadent and system has paved the way for more
an inspection system capable of ULC Robotics were pleased with the accurate and controlled project
meeting the requirements for operation and control of the system, timelines and costs.
previously inaccessible areas of deeming the project highly successful.
the mains. This work led to the Results from the field tests were FUTURE WORKS
development of a motorised incredibly positive. A total of 677m of With the introduction of the M1
crawler that launches vertically into live, 36in diameter pipe was internally Live Mains Inspection Crawler,
pressured mains through a bond inspected, with 250m inspected ULC Robotics has been able to
and bolt or conventional saddle and in one direction from the launch expand its fleet of live gas main
a six-inch tapping. Its tracks expand location at Chelsea Embankment. inspection technologies and provide
once inside the main, enabling the The M1 Live Mains Inspection gas distribution networks with the
crawler to traverse debris commonly Crawler System successfully traversed comprehensive visual and mapping
found at the bottom of the main a total of 220 internal mechanical data needed to assess pipelines for
and elevating its camera to provide seals, as well as eight 11.5° bends and damage, deterioration, and internal
a centered, well-lit view of the pipe two 22.5° bends. blockages. The real-time intelligence
and its features. The crawler also The completed inspection work delivered under live conditions –
has the ability to navigate bends in shows promise for a more efficient with no disruption to supplies – helps
the pipeline, without the need for inspections process, projecting gas utilities resolve issues quickly,
additional excavation. reduced environmental impact reduce the need for excavations and
The inspection system was and significant reductions in the plan work more efficiently. ■
repeatedly launched, retrieved disruption caused to the public.
and tested to ensure maximum This new technology will allow for
performance at three locations on fewer street excavations, reduced
London’s medium pressure network: impact on drivers, less congestion,
the junction of Chelsea Embankment and lower overall project emissions.
and Battersea Bridge, St Leonards With minimal service outages and

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