Raven Tanks was engaged by Origin Energy to replace the rusted steel support beams in a 1 million litre fire water tank. At their LNG Plant in Pinkenba, Brisbane, QLD. The client needed accurate measurements to ensure that the replacement support beams fit perfectly. To achieve this, Raven Tanks engaged Green Sky to create an accurate 3D model of the tank using our drones and 3D modelling services.

The Challenge

The location of the tank was next to the Brisbane airport in Class C controlled airspace. As a result, Green Sky needed to ensure that all safety protocols were followed to ensure safe operation within the airspace. In addition, the tank was in withing an Origin Energy LNG gas plant, which posed additional safety risks.

The Process

Green Sky's initial steps involved consulting with Raven Tanks to fully understand the desired outcome. We then conducted a site survey and developed a thorough Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) to assess and mitigate all risks associated with the project. Once all safety measures had been put in place through the planning stage, a comprehensive flight plan was developed to ensure successful data capture and safe operation within controlled airspace of Brisbane airport. Throughout the project, Green Sky worked closely with Raven Tanks and Origin Energy to ensure that all requirements were met, and all safety protocols were strictly followed.

Given that the tank was in an LNG gas plant, Green Sky underwent onsite inductions to familiarize themselves with the safety aspects and controls required while working in this environment. Safety was of paramount importance, and we followed strict safety protocols throughout the project, also understanding the sites exclusion zones of where the drone could safely operate.
Using our sub-250gm drone and EMLID RS2+ to place Ground Control Points (GCPs), Green Sky conducted several flights to capture high-resolution images of the tank and its surrounding area. During the flights, the drone captured circa 350 images of the tank from different angles and elevations. These images were then processed using photogrammetry techniques to create an accurate 3D model of the tank.

Photogrammetry is a technique that uses photographs to create 3D models of objects. In this process, the photographs are analysed and compared to each other to identify common points or features. The software then uses these points to create a 3D model of the object.
By using photogrammetry, Green Sky was able to create an accurate 3D model of the tank, allowing for precise measurements to be obtained for the replacement beams. The use of ground control points with the EMLID RS2+ allowed them to achieve improved accuracy in the 3D model.

The Result

Overall, the combination of drone technology and photogrammetry allowed Green Sky to provide an innovative solution for the client's challenge and produce a centremeter accurate 3D model despite the location's challenging conditions. Our commitment to safety and adherence to strict safety protocols ensured that the project was completed without incident, despite the risks associated with working in close proximity to an LNG gas plant, Brisbane airport and onsite staff.
The 3D model allowed Raven Tanks to obtain accurate measurements and successfully replace the steel support beams in the fire water tank, ensuring that the tank remained fully operational and compliant with fire safety regulations.

Conclusion

Green Sky's use of drone technology and photogrammetry provided an accurate and innovative solution to a challenging project. Their commitment to safety and adherence to strict safety protocols ensured that the project was completed without incident. This case study highlights the potential of drone technology to revolutionize the way that challenging projects are approached and completed, and the importance of safety in such operations.