Using traditional methods of oil and gas inspections are both hazardous and time-consuming. The CDC states that 63 oil and gas extraction workers died as a result of a fall during 2005-2014. This resulted in an annual average of 6.3 deaths. Also, traditional inspections could take up to eight weeks to complete; with the use of an aerial drone and a digital platform, this time frame could be shortened to five days. Inspection of air stacks may take place during production, which is also cost-efficient.
OOOOa regulations require inspections of wellheads, metering valves, and lines to be completed twice a year. These regulations also require that quarterly surveys be conducted at compressor stations. Annual reports on both the EPA Electronic Reporting Tool (EPA) and the Compliance and Emissions Data Reporting Interface (CEDRI) are also compulsory. On Sept. 23, 2016, a second draft of an Information Collection Request (ICR) was issued, requiring oil and gas companies to supply information to assist with the location and measurement of methane emissions. This information is used for policies aimed at reducing these emissions.
Mandatory checks for spills and emissions on active wells are increasing, as well as air quality control inspections. Members of the inspection team must include an industry expert, a wildlife expert, an environmental expert, a soil conservation expert, a reclamation expert, and an agricultural producer. One member must also have strong expertise in public health and safety. Industry owners are now faced with an overwhelming set of regulations, and the most effective way to comply with the regulations is to consistently ensure that wells are running clean and that the overall operation measures up to safety standards. Drones can help industry owners conduct accurate gas leak detection inspections. They can also supply aerial data which accelerates the application process, supports claims, and helps with the obtaining of permits.
During the rig inspection process, an engineer and a drone operator are sent to a specific rig location. Flying a small drone around a platform, they analyze data for a 3-D composition of the structure. Irregularities, such as cracks, corrosions, and gas leaks, are mapped out in red, green, or yellow color codes. These codes are based upon urgency. The analysis is then submitted through an online portal. Temperature abnormalities, energy loss, and overheating is detected by thermal energy. A FLIR camera utilizes thermal performance measurements to detect and evaluate oil and gas leaks. Wiring issues and air intrusions are also detected with a FLIR camera.
Mile High Drones, based in Denver, delivers oil and gas drone services all over the United States and South America. Originally, we were founded as an educational resource for UAVs (in Colorado). We became a credible source for referrals for both individuals and local media production companies. In 2016, we merged with HoverByDrones and evolved into a national drone service provider.
We provide services for:
- Marketing aerial shots
- Inspection services (with thermal and gas-leak detection sensors)
- Grade analytics for Roofing, Architects, Engineers, Construction Firms
- Software Development
Our drones include mapping systems, the M210RTK magnetically shielded infrared powerhouse, the XT Thermal Infrared (Flir), and high altitude propulsion systems. All of our company pilots have their 107 license and are fully compliant with the latest regulations. Our operations are directed by a USAF veteran, and a licensed thermographer conducts thermal imaging services. We provide Remote Methane Leak Detections (RMLD) and Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) technology. Our drones can quickly collect essential data through the use of many electromagnetic sensors: ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared, short-wave infrared, mid-way infrared, and long-wave infrared. Our mission is to help companies meet and exceed OOOOa regulations.