STOCKHOLM — Vattenfall, a leading European energy company, unveils a groundbreaking initiative integrating digital inspection technology across its operations, marking a significant leap forward in efficiency and safety. Leveraging advanced drone technology and sensor systems, Vattenfall’s innovative approach promises to simplify inspections in challenging environments while enhancing overall operational performance.
Anders Lindström, head of Digital Inspections at Vattenfall R&D, underscores the transformative impact of drones on maintenance and inspection tasks, stating, “Drones improve the quality of inspections considerably and also save us time and expense. And, not least, the safety of personnel is improved, which is clearly important.”
With drones deployed for inspection of power lines, hydropower dams, and even nuclear reactors, Vattenfall is redefining industry standards for safety and efficiency. Lindström highlights the versatility of drones, noting their ability to access areas previously deemed inaccessible, such as reactor containments and district heating boilers.
Joakim Smedlund, a drone pilot, reflects on the challenges of navigating confined spaces within dams, stating, “The space inside a dam is extremely limited and there are a lot of obstacles in the way, such as pillars and pipes. We really had to concentrate to make sure the drones didn’t collide with anything.”
The benefits of drone technology extend beyond traditional inspections, offering valuable insights into dynamic environments such as hydro power reservoirs and wind power turbines. By harnessing drones and AI, Vattenfall aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and quality across its operations, ushering in a new era of digital inspection technology.
Anders Lindström emphasizes the transformative potential of digital inspection technology, stating, “Where we’ve tested drones, we’ve been able to improve both safety and quality, and the inspections have become more efficient. One thing’s for certain: digital inspection technology is on the advance.”
As Vattenfall continues to push the boundaries of innovation, its strategic investment in digital inspection technology reaffirms its commitment to driving sustainable growth and operational excellence in the energy sector.
