What is a borescope?
A borescope is essentially a miniature camera (or cameras) mounted on either a rigid or flexible tube that can be inserted into hard-to-access areas. The camera captures HD images and video for inspection purposes. It’s used to visualise the internal areas of assets, such as engines, pipework and machinery.
What are robotic inspection systems?
Robotic inspection systems use cutting-edge technology to automate inspection tasks. They include remote control inspection cameras, crawl space inspection robots, drones and other mechanisms that can perform a variety of inspection tasks. They use lighting, cameras, video, sensors and NDT testing tools to inspect assets. They’re especially advantageous in areas that are difficult to reach or in environments that are hazardous to humans.
How does a borescope work?
Fibreoptic technology and/or tiny cameras capture images from deep within the asset. These are transmitted back to a monitor or computer for assessment. A borescope is either flexible or rigid, depending on the shape and complexity of the asset it needs to navigate.
What are the benefits of using robotic inspection systems?
Inspection robots bring many benefits to NDT tasks, such as:
- Carrying out inspections in a far shorter time than it would take to be done manually. This means assets don’t need to be offline for long periods, therefore driving down the inspection costs.
- Removes the need for humans to enter hazardous or confined spaces.
- Can reach areas that humans are unable to.
- Can cover up to 100% of an asset area, returning accurate and reliable data without the risk of human error.
Does Nexxis offer borescope hire?
Yes, we certainly do. Our range is extensive and includes video borescopes, rigid models, flexible options and waterproof borescopes, all of which come in a wide variety of lengths and diameters. You can take advantage of our borescopes rental for short, mid or long-term hire.
What types of robotic inspection systems are there?
Some of the most commonly found inspection robots include crawl space inspection robots, remote control inspection cameras and drones/unmanned aerial vehicles.
Are borescopes easy to operate?
In a word, yes. Borescopes are essentially quite simple to use – plus every Nexxis hire or lease comes with full training as to how to operate your borescope camera for optimal use.
Where are robotic inspection systems most used?
Many industries are taking full advantage of robotic inspection, including oil & gas, marine, mining, infrastructure, manufacturing and power production. Some examples include:
- Confined space inspection, such as within buildings, crawl spaces and tankers.
- Infrastructure inspections of tunnels, pipelines, bridges etc.
- Hazardous space and non-oxygen atmospheres within assets and underground mining locations.
- Vast interior space inspections using indoor drones.
Can a borescope take video as well as still images?
Yes, you can capture video as well as still images during a borescope inspection. All our rental borescopes are fitted with HD cameras to ensure the highest quality images. These are fully exportable, making the data easy to share and save for comparison to past and future inspections.
Can Nexxis help customise a robotic inspection system for specific applications?
Yes, we can – and it’s one of the reasons that industry experts trust us with their NDT procurement requirements. We’re a world leader in bringing advanced robotic solutions to the mainstream, using technology to solve complex inspection tasks. This includes tailoring existing inspection robots by equipping them with cameras, sensors, lighting and testing equipment based on the inspection needs, as well as working with some of the best robotic companies to tailor-engineer solutions for one-off requirements.
Can borescopes be used for underwater inspections?
They sure can! Some models are specifically designed to be used underwater and are a vital inspection tool for subsea, marine environments and anywhere that has submerged equipment that needs to be inspected.
Are robotic systems difficult to operate?
Inspection robots are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. Some are very simple to use – others take a little education or need to be operated by trained personnel. When you rent or lease equipment from Nexxis, we include any necessary tuition if the tool is designed to be self-operated.
What’s better – borescope hire or to purchase one outright?
In some cases, buying might be the right option. However, with technology advancing at unprecedented speed, borescopes rental is often the best choice. That way, you won’t be stuck with outdated equipment as you’ll be able to upgrade as new tech is released. At Nexxis, our borescope hire also means that we take care of all maintenance, so you know that your equipment will always be operating at optimal level.
Does Nexxis offer robotic inspection systems for rent or lease?
Yes, Nexxis is a leading Australian provider of robotic inspection systems and remote-control inspection cameras to facilities around the world. Our expertise in technology and partnerships with some of the best and most innovative global companies allow us to offer our customers an unrivalled selection of advanced inspection tools. Whether you’re looking for off-the-shelf inspection robots or need assistance to determine a bespoke solution for a complex inspection task, our inventory, collaborations and reach mean we can offer an unrivalled selection of inspection robots to suit all eventualities.
What are remote visual inspection cameras?
A remote visual inspection camera (RVI) is a device that’s used to carry out NDT in awkward or dangerous locations. They remove the need for human access and are operated from a distance. They’re used to inspect multiple locations, including stormwater pipes, drainpipes, sewer pipes and more. An RVI is fitted with HD image capture capability and can return both still and video data.
How do I choose the right borescope for my inspection needs?
Every asset is different, meaning the borescope camera that best suits your requirements will be influenced by various elements, including its size, depth and ease of access. Part of the Nexxis difference is our assistance in selecting the right kit for your needs. Whether you’re interested in leasing, renting or purchasing, our experienced team will help determine the correct borescope to return the very best inspection results.
Can robotic inspection systems perform other tasks besides visual inspections?
Many can, thanks to having the payload that allows NDT equipment to be fitted. Examples include UT, gas and chemical detection, thermal/infrared imaging, acoustic emission testing and magnetic particle testing.
What types of RVI tools does Nexxis supply?
Nexxis offers a wide range of RVI cameras to enable remote testing of virtually any asset/location. Our cutting-edge portfolio of tools includes water, stormwater and drainpipe inspection cameras, with many being able to add bespoke imaging and lighting capability to suit every environment and application.
Does Nexxis offer technical support for borescope rentals?
Yes. In similarity to all our equipment rentals and leases, we provide experienced technical support for the complete equipment hire term. You can access our technical team’s expertise by phone, email, live chat or via our website’s detailed FAQ section.
How do inspection crawlers work?
Inspection crawlers traverse the asset surface via wheels or tracks. Advanced crawlers can climb walls, negotiate obstacles and even manoeuvre up and down steps. They’re typically used to inspect confined spaces, challenging or busy terrains, pipelines and other enclosed areas.
What are the benefits of using a remote visual inspection camera?
There are several reasons that savvy maintenance managers are moving to RVI for inspection tasks. These include:
- Removing the requirement for human entry into hazardous locations and confined spaces.
- Returning more accurate data – RVIs can usually scan an asset in its entirety, reaching areas a human inspector can’t, gather data from a uniform distance from the asset surface and, very importantly, return results that aren’t subject to human error.
- Pipe inspection cameras offer much faster surveillance, significantly reducing the time taken and associated costs.
- Provide enhanced localisation, data, reporting and documentation, making it easier to strategize for current and future maintenance work.
Are borescopes suitable for high-temperature environments?
Yes, some models are designed specifically for extremes of temperature. They come with features that allow them to withstand heat (or cold), making them suitable for the inspection of assets that need to be inspected under heat duress or where cooling the equipment would result in lengthy periods of downtime.
Can I get technical support for robotic systems rented, leased or purchased from Nexxis?
Of course, and it’s included in all our packages. Our customer support is on hand for all our inspection robotics, crawlers and remote-control inspection cameras and allows you to have 24/7 access to expert advice whenever needed. We also provide any necessary training, both at the beginning and at any point during which you continue to rent or lease the equipment.
How far can a RVI camera travel inside the pipes?
Each camera has different distance capabilities. Nexxis provide pipe inspection cameras with differing ranges, depending on requirements. How far an individual RVI can travel is dependent on the length of the cable (tether) – this varies from around 50 metres to up to a kilometre in distance.
What types of pipes can a remote visual inspection camera be used for?
These robust tools can be used to inspect pretty much any type of pipework. They’re suitable for domestic and commercial applications. Depending on your requirements, an RVI can be tailored as a water, stormwater, drainpipe or sewer inspection camera, with the ability to traverse complex spaces, extended distances and hazardous atmospheres.
Can remote visual inspection cameras be used for other applications besides pipe inspections?
Absolutely! RVIs are versatile tools that can be utilised in many other areas. As well as having advanced pipe inspection camera capabilities, maintenance teams are using them to inspect any areas that are difficult or hazardous for humans to access. Typical industries that are taking advantage include oil & gas, mining, aerospace, subsea, power generation, infrastructure and more.
Is it better to buy or rent a robotic crawler unit?
While an outright purchase can be right in some cases, renting or leasing from Nexxis offers some distinct advantages. These include:
- Not having to worry about equipment maintenance – we take care of it throughout the lifetime of the rental.
- Take advantage of the latest technology – easily upgrade when the next iteration is released.
- Get ongoing technical support and training whenever needed.
- Spread the cost over time, making it easier to budget and increasing your cash flow.
- Easily change the equipment should your inspection and NDT requirements change.
What is wire rope inspection?
Wire rope inspection is an essential NDT task that looks at the integrity of wire ropes, assesses their condition and highlights any defects. Various methods are used to identify anomalies that affect safety and performance, including wear, corrosion and damage. The results are then used to determine if maintenance and/or replacements are needed.
What methods are used for wire rope inspection?
There are different types of wire rope testing. These include visually inspecting the rope and NDT methods, with the most common being magnetic flux leakage (MFL). This is carried out with a wire rope inspection scanner. Carried out regularly, NDT in combination with visual inspection ensures that wire ropes are fit for use, promotes effective maintenance and repairs, as well as reducing unexpected failures and the associated costs and risks this brings.
What is a wire rope scanner and how does it work?
A scanner is a device that uses MFL testing to assess a cross-section of a wire rope. It’s moved along the length of the wire, taking measurements as it goes. The results are displayed on a unit, allowing the operator to assess any flaws. The information is also exportable, allowing it to be saved and compared against the results of future testing.
Can I perform wire rope inspection in-house, or should I hire professionals?
Understanding how to carry out and interpret the results of wire rope inspection differs depending on the industry and asset. There is generally at least a minimum training requirement – something that in-house maintenance personnel may be able to perform under certain situations. Others require the expertise of a certified inspector.
How often should wire rope inspection be carried out?
The frequency of wire rope testing is governed by strict industry regulations. Load capacity, usage and environmental conditions also play a part. At a minimum, wire rope inspection should take place once a year – more often, in certain situations.
What type of wire rope inspection equipment does Nexxis provide?
The Nexxis range of wire rope testing devices is extensive and covers virtually every industry need. We offer wire rope inspection tools to rent, lease or purchase. One of the biggest advantages of renting or leasing is that you’ll never have to worry about any maintenance needs as we ensure that all of our equipment is regularly serviced to keep it in optimal condition.
Can Nexxis help determine which wire rope inspection equipment is right for my needs?
Absolutely! We’re experts in the field of NDT and can advise on the best kit for your requirements. Our equipment is cutting-edge – we’re usually the first to stock and provide the latest advancements and have a dedicated team that’ll assist in determining the ultimate inspection tools that’re cost-effective, accurate and help drive down maintenance and repair costs.
What industries need wire rope inspection equipment?
There are many, including marine, mining, construction, transportation, infrastructure, oil & gas, aerospace, manufacturing and automotive. Examples of assets that use wire ropes include cranes, aerial ropeways, hoists, cable dredgers, safety fences, conveyor systems and more.
What are the benefits of using wire rope scanners for inspection?
There are many advantages, including:
- Carrying out inspections while the ropes are in-situ.
- Proactive maintenance, allowing inspectors to determine the MTBF more accurately, thus avoiding unexpected failure with potentially catastrophic results.
- Accurate, repeatable, localised data capture that can be compared against future wire rope inspections.
Can Nexxis help custom design a robot crawler for particularly complex inspection or NDT needs?
We certainly can – it’s something we specialise in. The Nexxis design team has close links with some of the most advanced robotic companies in the world, with engineers who can tailor-design a solution for robotic cameras and CCTV crawler units to be able to negotiate even the toughest environments.
Does Nexxis provide training when you lease or rent a robotic crawler or CCTV tractor camera?
Yes, all our assets come with full training as to how to operate them. We also provide ongoing instruction, if it’s needed, during the complete lease or rental period.
What type of robotic crawlers does Nexxis supply?
Nexxis offer a wide range or robot crawlers to suit virtually every inspection and NDT task. From wheeled CCTV tractor cameras to the latest bespoke units with varying payloads to attach every type of NDT unit, we stock both off-the-shelf crawlers and work with innovative robotic companies to tailor-make solutions for even the most complex inspection tasks.
How can Nexxis help my company procure the right remote visual inspection camera?
Nexxis offer a wide range of RVIs for rent, lease or purchase. We specialise in bringing technological advantages to our customers, with a design team that can help create an NDT solution for even the most challenging inspection requirements. Whether you need a sewer inspection camera to traverse long distances, a drainpipe inspection camera to seek out a subterranean blockage, or any other type of pipe inspection, we can define the optimal RVI capabilities to carry out the task in the fastest, safest and most accurate manner.
Are remote visual inspection cameras difficult to operate?
While you might need some basic training, all of the Nexxis pipe inspection cameras are intuitive and easy to operate. Most are designed to be single-operator and are controlled from a distance via a computer or handheld remote. Our team will assist with any necessary training and are always on hand for support if needed.
Are remote visual inspection cameras suitable for use in dark environments?
Yes, they are. Nexxis provide RVIs that either have integrated lighting systems or a payload that allows them to be added. Assets must be well-lit for accurate data to be recorded. In the case of pipes, sewers, drainpipes, water pipes and stormwater inspection cameras, the environment will almost always be dark or poorly lit, making it crucial that the RVI is equipped with built-in and adjustable lighting.
Is technical support available for remote visual inspection cameras leased or rented from Nexxis?
It certainly is and comes as standard with every rental. We offer a world-leading procurement model - if you rent a pipe inspection camera or any other NDT equipment, our support team is always at the end of a phone or online to assist. In addition, renting an RVI from Nexxis means that there are no maintenance issues to worry about – we take care of all of it. You can also chop and change equipment as necessary, therefore you don’t have any precious funds tied up in expensive inspection assets. This eases the strain on maintenance budgets and makes it far simpler to forward plan.
What is a robot crawler?
A robot or robotic crawler is a semi-autonomous or autonomous instrument that uses tracks or wheels to move across a surface. It’s equipped with various sensory devices, including those for NDT, lighting, cameras and video recorders. They’re typically used to inspect pipelines, ducts, tanks, confined spaces and any environment that’s difficult for humans to enter or are in hazardous locations.
How does a robotic crawler work?
Crawler robots move via wheels or tracks that gain traction on the surface below. Some of them have magnetic properties (in the case of assets made of metal). Depending on the type, they might be operated remotely by a human, by a computer programme or – in the case of the most advanced robot crawlers – the move towards true autonomy is coming ever closer. This is afforded by intelligent sensors that can ‘see’ and react to obstacles and carry out the appropriate manoeuvres to negotiate them.
What are crawler robots used for?
They’re typically used for inspections of areas that are complex, dangerous for human entry and/or have toxic atmospheres. They’re fitted with equipment, such as CCTV, sensors, NDT equipment and HD video and image capture, all of which is relayed back to the operator/base station/computer program for interpretation. Some examples of where they’re used include:
- Pipeline inspection.
- Infrastructure inspection.
- Asset inspection, such as tanks, reactor pressure vessels, mine shafts, railroad and truck tank cars etc.
- Security and surveillance.
What are the advantages of using robotic crawlers?
Some of the biggest benefits are:
- Enhanced data capture, thanks to the uniformity of distance that cameras and NDT equipment is from the surface of the asset. CCTV crawlers and robots can negotiate complex environments, covering up to 100% of the asset surface. They also remove the risk of human error.
- Increased safety, thanks to being able to enter non-oxygen atmospheres and confined spaces. Removing humans from the equation negates virtually all the risks of such hazardous activities.
- Can be cheaper than human-led inspections. Introducing a CCTV tractor camera unit into a high-risk environment requires far less asset preparation and reduces the amount of time the inspection takes. This means a significantly shorter offline period, therefore the associated downtime costs are (often dramatically) decreased.
What kind of data can be obtained from a CCTV tractor camera?
Images and video can be captured in real-time, lighting can be directed and intensified on areas of interest and defects can be noted and mapped. All this information is recorded and can be compared against previous and future CCTV crawler inspections.
Can robotic crawlers work in hazardous environments?
Yes, and it’s one of the greatest advantages that they offer. For example, robot crawlers can work in extremes of temperature, non-oxygen atmospheres, within ex-rated areas, at height or where there’s a risk of toxic gases. They remove the need for humans to enter such locations, thus increasing health and safety. They’re used in multiple industries, including mining, oil & gas, nuclear, power generation, petrochemical, infrastructure and more.
Can I get technical support for wire rope inspection devices that I’ve leased, rented or purchased from Nexxis?
You can and it comes as standard with every item of equipment procured from us. Our expert team is available to speak to or is online whenever you need us. We can also advise on complex wire rope inspection tasks and help you determine the right solution, no matter how challenging the situation.