Tank inspections aren’t what they used to be. Gone are the days when teams had to drain a tank and send someone inside with a torch and clipboard. Now, many inspections are handled using ROVs, or Remotely Operated Vehicles. These underwater tools are helping tanks stay safe, clean, and in good working order without the hassle of emptying them every time. They’re remote-controlled, fitted with cameras and lighting, and reach places that are hard or unsafe for people to access.
ROV inspections are quickly becoming a go-to method across multiple sectors because they’re faster, less disruptive, and give a close look at what’s really going on inside the tank. They help spot damage, wear, or unwanted build-up early, even in places a person might not be able to reach. Finding problems early means you can fix them before they turn into big, expensive issues.
The Basics of ROV Inspections
An ROV is a small underwater robot that’s piloted from the surface. It is typically tethered by a cable and controlled using a pad or a computer setup. Think of it like a drone, except it moves through water instead of air. It’s designed to handle tough conditions and reach areas that are either too tight or too risky for people.
Most ROVs used for tank checks share some core features:
1. High-definition cameras for clear visuals
2. Bright LED lights to illuminate dark or murky areas
3. Thrusters or propellers for controlled movement
4. Environmental sensors to monitor pressure or temperature
5. A control station that streams the feed in real time
All of these work together to provide a complete picture of the inside of the tank while avoiding the difficult and time-consuming setup of a traditional inspection. That means no draining, no confined space entry, and a lot less downtime.
ROVs can be used across different tank types—from potable water storage to chemical storage and everything in between. If a traditional inspection might take a couple of days including cleanup and prep, an ROV can often be in and out within a few hours, all while collecting precise footage for review.
Benefits of Using ROV Inspections
Using ROVs for tank inspections offers a number of strong benefits. Here’s why so many tank owners are switching over to this modern system.
1. Less Downtime
Traditional inspections often require tanks to be emptied, cleaned, and ventilated before work can begin. With an ROV, tanks can often stay filled and in use, cutting down on service interruptions.
2. Worker Safety
There’s no need for anyone to enter the tank when using an ROV. That means no dealing with tight spaces, low oxygen levels, or chemical residues. It’s safer and easier for everyone involved.
3. More Detailed Results
ROVs capture high-quality video that can reveal cracks, corrosion, debris build-up, or loose fittings that the naked eye might miss. Operators can zoom in or adjust position for better accuracy.
4. Lower Inspection Costs
Without the hassle of draining and cleaning procedures, there’s less time spent on prep and fewer workers needed. Less gear, less risk, and quicker inspections lead to cost savings.
5. Long-Term Records
Captured footage doesn’t just help during the inspection itself. It gets saved and logged for future comparison. That means tracking wear over time becomes simpler and also supports smarter maintenance decisions.
ROV inspections are also a good fit for regular check-up programs. Instead of waiting for clear signs of trouble, it’s possible to detect early warnings and act promptly. This careful approach helps avoid emergency repairs or unexpected shutdowns.
How ROV Inspections Improve Tank Maintenance
ROVs offer more than just a better view—they offer better insight. By spotting problems early, you can fix them before they grow. Often, the first signs of trouble are so subtle, a manual inspection could miss them entirely.
Things like small cracks, early-stage corrosion, or layers of debris can start small but lead to serious issues if left unchecked. Having clear images or video makes it easier to spot these early, schedule the right type of repair, and extend the lifespan of your tank.
The footage also works as a record. Over time, each inspection builds a library of visuals, letting you track how things change from one check to the next. That’s handy for tanks that are constantly in use and experience slow wear. You’ll know what’s normal and what needs attention.
If one section of the tank is always more prone to silt build-up, for instance, you can focus your cleaning efforts there and save time. Or if a crack forms and slowly grows, a past inspection will help identify how fast it’s changing, helping with repair planning.
Best Practices for ROV Inspections
To get the most from ROV inspections, they need to be part of a structured routine. A one-off check every few years might not show you enough to be useful. Consistency is what really pays off.
Here are some tips to make sure your inspections are valuable:
1. Schedule regular inspections
The schedule should depend on how often the tank is used. High-use tanks might need more frequent checks, while others can follow a set seasonal plan.
2. Inspect after unexpected events
Construction nearby, strange water readings, or environmental issues like flooding can all harm tanks. A quick ROV check can confirm whether everything is still intact.
3. Use experienced operators
The gear itself is only part of the process. Reading the footage correctly and knowing what to look for makes a big difference. Working with trained professionals means getting reliable results.
4. Take action based on findings
A camera can only show the problem. It’s up to the operator or owner to fix it. Whether it’s cleaning up debris or fixing a crack, following through with maintenance matters.
Many operators also keep maps or tagging systems of their tanks. When an ROV finds an issue, the location is marked and logged with the footage. That way, future teams can return to the exact spot if another problem is found.
Ready for a Safer, Smarter Inspection Approach?
ROV inspections have changed how tank maintenance is handled. They cut down inspection time, improve safety, and provide clearer insight into a tank’s real condition. There’s no more guessing or taking risks—just straight answers and visual proof.
For tanks that store drinking water, chemicals, or something in between, a reliable inspection option makes it easier to feel confident about safety and performance. Making ROVs part of a routine maintenance schedule means staying one step ahead of major repairs.
Handled by skilled technicians, these inspections help protect your tanks, reduce downtime, and improve reliability.
If you’re looking to stay ahead of potential issues and make your maintenance routine more efficient, understanding the value of professional tank inspections is a smart move. ATM Tanks is here to help you keep your storage systems running smoothly with tailored services that work around your needs.
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