Nexxis Technology Lifts Off: Supporting Aerospace Fuel Line Inspections
When it comes to space exploration, precision is everything.
Even the smallest misplaced particle, or piece of foreign object debris (FOD) can compromise mission success.
Which is exactly why a leading space exploration company needed a cutting-edge solution to inspect their rocket ship fuel lines.
Traditional inspections rely on manual assessments and invasive methods, so they sought a more advanced, efficient, and reliable alternative.
Enter Nexxis USA.
The Challenges of Fuel Line Inspections
The fuel line plays a crucial role in transferring fuel from the ship’s nose to the re-entry boosters. Due to the extended distance the fuel must travel, this section is larger than standard fuel lines and presents unique challenges when it comes to inspection.
Key concerns included:
- Post-assembly inspection of ten pipe sections
- Ensuring weld integrity across circumferential and longitudinal seams
- Detecting FOD, which can cause issues in aerospace fuel lines
- Minimising risk while maintaining high safety standards
For inspections where microscopic debris could be present, the team were looking into a solution that could precisely assess weld conditions and identify even the smallest contaminants—all without dismantling the pipeline.
Why Nexxis Robotics?
Generally our robotics are designed for high-precision remote visual inspections, built on a platform that is modular by design acting as plug and play modules. The platform acts as the ideal system architecture for developing solutions for critical pipe inspection. Its compact, manoeuvrable design enables seamless navigation through pipelines, while its high-resolution imaging captures the data necessary for quality control.
During the live demonstration onsite, we:
- Trained the inspection team on operating the Nexxis control systems.
- Gathered data for aerospace-grade decontamination.
- Ensured preparation for extended testing in real-world conditions
The Results
Following our deployment, Nexxis USA is actively supporting their inspection and validation process. This solution is helping the aerospace engineering team:
- Detect contaminants before they compromise operations
- Assess weld integrity with greater precision
- Reduce risk and improve quality control for fuel line assembly
A Smarter Future for Aerospace Inspections
The trials of Nexxis robotics systems in the aerospace field, highlights the power of robotic inspection solutions in the most demanding environments.
As aerospace technology continues to evolve, the ability to perform non-destructive, real-time inspections will be crucial in ensuring mission success, safety, and efficiency. It’s a space where quality solutions, and precision are critical. A space where Nexxis thrives.
Got a similar problem that needs solving?
At Nexxis, we take pride in solving the world’s most complex NDT and RVI challenges with both off-the-shelf and modular OEM solutions.
Backed by our innovative prototyping workshop, SixDe, we’re well equipped to tackle any problem. Get in touch today to find out how we can help.
