Skygauge Comes to Perth

Nexxis and technology go hand in hand. This means building partnerships with some of the most innovative companies on the planet, working with them as they develop cutting-edge solutions that solve complex inspection tasks.

One such example is Skygauge Robotics, who has developed a unique drone that is revolutionising the field of ultrasonic testing (UT).

What is Skygauge?

Skygauge was born from a vision to create a drone that could do far more than simply take video and images. The idea of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that could interact with the environment and undertake physical tasks has been successfully morphed from conception to reality.

This novel drone features a unique design. It consists of an Airframe with independently tilting rotors – very different from a conventional drone where the frame tilts along with the rotors. This creates an extremely stable body from which incredibly accurate testing can be achieved. In addition, Skygauge has an impressive payload, allowing it to carry onboard lighting for confined space inspection, as well as having 90 degree bendable probes that allow for highly accurate data capture.

Other highlights include:

• Technology that mimics the precision of the human hand: Achieved by strategically placed sensors that understand how flush the drone is with the inspection surface. Integrated, intelligent tech means the drone automatically adjusts itself for a truly flush contact.
• Repeatable readings through visual grid: Thanks to a 3D grid. Precision is guaranteed through 1 inch (2.5 cm) grid squares suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.
• 360 degree coverage: This allows readings on straight, curved or sloped surfaces. The pilot can easily angle both the drone and articulating payload to access hard-to-reach areas. This includes getting into corners and around beams, even in locations with complex or congested geography.
• Advanced safety features: Designed to detect and mitigate risk in Class 1 Div 2 environments. Flight is maintained even with two motor failures, thanks to having eight integrated redundant motors.
• Cutting-edge reporting features: Skygauge provides a detailed report of each inspection point using scanline locations.

In addition to UT, Skygauge is a true airborne workhorse. It’s designed to carry a variety of payloads, meaning it can also be used for:

• Painting and spraying.
• DFT for paint coating.
• Rust removal.

The drone can be flown in winds of up to 36 km/h and has an operating range of 300m. In addition, a soon-to-be-introduced vertical bend feature will allow it to be used for pipe rack inspection and other extremely congested environments. It’s the only drone on today’s market that can take readings in a 12 inch (30.5 cm) gap.

Skygauge is a new-to-the-market tool. Launched in early 2023, over 20 drones have now been successfully deployed. Some examples of successful use include

• Reducing a two week tank inspection task to a mere two days for Cargill.
• Saved $110,00 (USD) on a single inspection for HF Sinclair.
• Saved $75,000 (USD) in crane rental costs for ArcelorMittal.
• Saved a week of downtime performing inspections on live assets for Weyerhaeuser.

Skygauge is exactly the type of product that Nexxis makes available to our customers. Working with such innovative inspection models allows us to bring the latest solutions to increase inspection safety, improve results and – vitally – save money.

From off-the-shelf advanced inspection cameras and cutting-edge drones, like Skygauge, to custom solutions through our innovation lab, Nexxis partners with maintenance teams in a wide range of industries.

Call us today to find out more.