Drones and new technologies: how industrial inspections are changing

In recent years, technology has made great strides. The evolution of digital systems, sensors, and artificial intelligence is transforming activities that previously required lengthy processes, dedicated resources, and complex interventions. Even in the industrial sector, particularly in maintenance and inspectionsthese innovations are opening up new possibilities and offering safer and more efficient solutions. Saras, for example, was the first refinery in Italy and among the first in Europe to test an inspection robot in a running refining plant.

The automatic robot Anymal, developed by the Swiss company Anybotics, a world leader in robotics, is trained using machine learning based on the principles of artificial intelligence.

Among the technologies revolutionizing the sector are aerial, marine, and land drones. These are unmanned, remotely controlled vehicles equipped with high-definition cameras and, in some cases, thermal sensors capable of detecting temperature differences and identifying anomalies not visible to the naked eye. Aerial drones are used to inspect complex structures, tanks, and areas that are difficult to reach safely from above. Marine drones allow diving and inspections of pylons, foundations, and underwater areas. Land-based drones, designed to operate in potentially aggressive atmospheres or confined spaces, can navigate uneven surfaces and collect images and data without exposing operators to risk.

At Saras, these technologies are also becoming an integral part of inspection activities.
Regular use of drones reduces intervention times, increases the frequency and speed of inspections, and overall increases operator safety. At the Sarroch refinery, the use of drones has become standard practice for aerial monitoring and has already been successfully tested in several other application areas.
New technologies do not replace human labor, but they make it safer, more precise, and more sustainable. A concrete example of how innovation can generate value even in daily industrial maintenance activities.