Flare Stacks

We propose to inspect higher sections of the flares by drone. Several missions of this type have already been carried out on different refineries. We are familiar with the OHS requirements of lindustrial sites and we make sure to perform flights in full compliance, and using the most efficient technologies available on the market.

 

Advantages :

• Less expensive and faster than a crane basket inspection
• Lots of quality photos or videos
• Can be carried out when the flare is in service
• Possible to use the captured photos to obtain a 3D point cloud of the equipment using photogrammetry

To consider :

• Usually allow two days between request and execution for the preparation of mission plans
• Weather conditions can delay the work (rain, snow, winds)

 

Conformity :

• Approved to fly on the two refineries in Quebec
• Drone operator license by Transport Canada
• Pilots certified by Transport Canada

If you suspect any anomalies with the flare while it is in service, we are able to perform a quality and detailed thermographic inspection of the equipment, especially the tip. This technology provides an infrared view of the entire flare, making it possible to identify abnormal thermal gradients linked to localized loss of thickness or indicators of malfunction. We master the OHS requirements of industrial sites and we make sure to perform flights in full compliance, and using the most efficient technologies available on the market.

 

Advantages :

• Less expensive and faster than a basket inspection of cranes.
• High resolution thermographic images

 

To consider :

• Usually allow two days between request and execution for the preparation of mission plans
• Weather conditions can delay the work (rain, snow, winds)
• The flare must be in service

 

Conformity :

• Approved to fly on both refineries in Quebec
• Drone operator license by Transport Canada
• Pilots certified by Transport Canada

We generally use "phased-array" ultrasonic testing for the detection of loss of thickness in the walls, heads and nozzle necks of equipments.

This technique provides fast coverage and excellent interpretation of surface profiles.

Advantages :

• Precise thickness data
• Rapid coverage of large areas
• Excellent interpretation of the type of dammage
• Possible to inspect through a uniform and well-adhered paint
• Applicable on hot surfaces (variable maximum temperature)

To consider :

• Need to apply couplant to the contact surface
• It may be difficult or impossible to take measurements from a heavily corroded contact surface
• Measurements may become more difficult to take when the remaining thickness is less than 1 to 3mm (depending on the application)

Phased-array ultrasonic thickness measurement data can be recorded based on position to obtain detailed thickness mapping for the region of interest. Different scanners can be used, including a magnetic robot with a range of 60 feet, or a pipe elbow scanner. But more frequently we use a small encoder attached to the probe for versatility, being that obstacles are often present in the areas of interest (nozzle, walkways, ladders, insulation, etc.).

Advantages :

• Efficient and detailed thickness mapping
• Data available in Excel format for "fitness for service" calculations or monitoring of progress over time
• Very versatile technique
• During shutdowns, this technique applied from the inside allows excellent detection of CUI (corrosion under insulation)

To consider :

• Requires application of couplant or water to the contact surface
• Magnetic robot can be used to reach remote areas

Technician Certifications:

• ASNT, SNT-TC-1A, PAUT
• ASNT, UT level 3

Magnetic particles non-destructive testing method is very efficient and simple to perform. It detects defects emerging at the surface in ferromagnetic materials. A magnetic yoke is generally used to create the magnetic field.

Different Techniques:

• Dry powder (yellow or red)
• Black particles on a white background ("black & white")
• Fluorescent particles (in dark environment)

Advantages :

• Fast and effective
• Excellent probability of detection
• Applicable on various geometries
• The dry powder technique is applicable at high temperature

To note :

• Applicable only to ferromagnetic materials
• Detection of surface defects, or very close to the surface, only
• Requires a clean surface (no grease)

Technician Certifications:

• ASNT, SNT-TC-1A, Magnetic Particles, Level 2
• CGSB, Magnetic Particles, Level 2