A recent collaborative project between Square Robot and Sutro Group demonstrated the remarkable effectiveness of autonomous robotic inspection for a 128 ft diesel storage tank in the UK. This project showcases the powerful partnership announced between the two companies, combining Square Robot’s innovative in-service inspection technology with Sutro Group’s extensive regional expertise in advanced asset inspection and non-destructive testing. By deploying this collaborative approach, the team was able to conduct comprehensive inspections while the tank remained in-service and filled with product, representing a significant advancement in tank maintenance methodology.

The project centred on a 128 ft diesel storage tank in the UK that required thorough inspection. Leveraging Square Robot’s C1D2-certified autonomous robotic technology, the Sutro Group team conducted the inspection over a 6-day period while the tank remained fully operational. Comprehensive analysis and reporting were delivered within two weeks of completion, providing the client with detailed insights into tank bottom integrity, sediment levels, and coating conditions through high-resolution imaging – all aligned with Sutro Group’s commitment to technical excellence and Square Robot’s data acquisition capabilities.

The project team faced several significant challenges:

• Ensuring safe operation of robotic equipment in a hazardous, flammable environment
• Navigating complex internal tank structures and varying sediment levels
• Capturing high-quality data to evaluate tank bottom integrity without draining the product
• Maintaining operational standards while working with an in-service facility
• Developing reliable methods to interpret robotic findings for actionable maintenance planning

The success of this project highlighted the value of the Square Robot and Sutro Group partnership:

• Deployment of Square Robot’s specialised autonomous robots certified for safe operation in hazardous environments
• Advanced imaging technologies that could function effectively while submerged in diesel
• Sophisticated navigation systems allowing the robot to comprehensively map and inspect the tank interior
• Data processing algorithms that produced actionable tank integrity assessments
• Collaborative workflow between Square Robot’s technology specialists and Sutro Group’s inspection experts to interpret findings and deliver comprehensive client solutions

This UK diesel tank inspection project demonstrates the transformative potential of the Square Robot and Sutro Group partnership in industrial maintenance. By eliminating the need to drain tanks and reducing human confined space entry, the approach delivers significant cost savings, environmental benefits, and safety improvements – perfectly aligned with both companies’ missions. As Richard Denmead, Technical Director at Sutro Group, noted: “This collaboration introduces field-proven innovation perfectly aligned with Sutro Group’s technical focus and the UK’s industrial modernisation needs. Their advanced robotic technology delivers superior data quality while tanks remain in service, offering our clients a solution that transforms integrity management with improved cost-effectiveness and safety compliance across multiple sectors.” The successful completion of this project within the projected timeframe, with comprehensive reporting delivered within two weeks, establishes a new standard for efficient and effective diesel tank inspection across the United Kingdom.

For more information on how Sutro Group can optimise your inspection processes, contact us today:

0800 069 9395
info@sutrogroup.co.uk