How DPSI Saves Thousands of Dollars on Tank Inspections

We were thrilled to speak to Brian Wilson (Mechanical Integrity Division Manager / sUAS Pilot) and Joseph Valenzuela (sUAV Pilot) of Diversified Project Services to learn more about how they use their DTG3 ROV to optimize their inspections and provide clients with exceptional service.

DPSI ROV

Diversified Project Services International (DPSI)

Diversified Project Services International (DPSI) is a leader in engineering, surveying, mechanical integrity, construction, and safety services. A full-service project solution provider, DPSI’s team of professionals provide advanced technical advice on all aspects of a project to enhance value while lowering costs. Guided by safety, communication, integrity and innovation, the DPSI team believes in providing quality from beginning to end.

Using a ROV for Firewater Tank Inspection

DPSI used their DTG3 to inspect 6 firewater tanks for a client. “We had an existing client of ours that called and asked us to enter 6 water tanks - firewater tanks - for inspection across several different facilities,” explained Brian.

The client needed to inspect each tank to evaluate structural integrity and condition. Using the knowledge gained from the inspections, the client could then determine a service and repair schedule that would allow them to keep the tanks in optimal condition without interfering with existing schedules. This also allowed the client to make the most of their budget. “They had a mix of some newer tanks and some that were older. They wanted to know which were the important ones to take out of service and repair, and which ones were in shape to be repaired later,” shared Brian.

Talk to us about how our ROVs improve the safety, cost and speed of water tank inspections and cleanings

Saving Time and Money with ROVs

In the past, the client would have had to take the tanks out of service and then drain them in order to conduct an accurate and safe inspection. In addition to being time consuming, this option is expensive in terms of both actual cost and losses from the tanks being taken out of service.

“I had mentioned to them the option of doing an ROV inspection versus taking the tanks out of service for an open, clean, inspect project,” said Brian. “Before we had the ROV, we had to completely drain and internally clean the asset prior to performing any inspections.”

“What usually happens with this kind of tank inspection is that they have to be taken out of service. You have to clean the tanks and build scaffolding to access the upper courses of the tank,” echoed Joseph. “Estimated costs to open, clean, inspect would be in the range of $36,000USD plus the loss of production and availability. With the ROV, we completed the 6 tanks for $12,000USD plus no loss of production.”

Cutting down on the time required to conduct these inspections is incredibly valuable. The use of an ROV allows the DPSI team to do accurate inspection in much less time than would have been previously required.

“To inspect these 6 tanks, with safety and everyone around, we would inspect 2 or 3 a day without an ROV. This time we got all 6 tanks done in one day,” explained Joseph.

In addition to minimizing the loss of time, ROV inspections require less personnel on site. “Without the ROV, we would need our team members plus a Rescue Team and a supervisor on standby at least. We were able to use just our 2 inspectors onsite compared to our 2 inspectors plus at least 3 additional people for safety and supervision,” shared Joseph.

Key Deep Trekker Features for Tank Inspections

“We were looking at ways of keeping the fire water tanks in service during inspection. We wanted to keep people safe with water available for fire fighting. We also wanted to avoid entering confined spaces. We were already using the DT340, and the ROV was our next step,” Brian explained.

There are specific features on the ROV that allow the DPSI to complete the job accurately, quickly and safely. “Pitch lock is huge, especially as we go down through the tank,” noted Joseph. “Depth lock is good, too. “It helps when you get near the bottom to stop sediment from kicking up.”

The DTG3 also provided the DPSI team with tangible proof of work to share with their client. “The client loved the videos. They were really clear,” said Joseph.

DPSI tank

The Deep Trekker Difference

At Deep Trekker, we pride ourselves on empowering our customers to access the impossible and complete the tough jobs they’ve been dispatched to complete.

“Everything has been good,” said Joseph. “With the ROV we’ve always had a good response from people.”

“It’s been very helpful,” added Brian. “The client had no idea this was even an option. They didn’t know about this service. Bringing this to the table allowed us to give them another option.”

We sincerely thank Brian, Joseph, and the entire DPSI team for their time and effort in sharing their story. You can learn more about DPSI at their website or by Contacting their team.

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