Chevron Partners With Applied Impact Robotics in Developing New Technology Allowing for In-Service Inspection of Above-Ground Crude Oil Storage Tanks

Chevron is contributing to a joint collaborative development project for Applied Impact Robotics’ technology. This novel robot solution enables remote, in-service inspection of crude oil Above Ground Storage Tanks (ASTs). The current inspection processes result in major cost, safety, and environmental concerns, prompting the need for this advanced technology.

Crude oil storage tanks are subject to corrosion, particularly on the tank floor. The American Petroleum Institute (API) requires operators to perform internal inspections of these tanks to prevent threats. Due to the sludge on the tank floor and the limits of today's technology, these inspections must be performed only when the tanks have been emptied. This leads to concerns about human safety, lost revenue, and a possible negative environmental impact.

Applied Impact Robotics’ novel robot technology makes remote, in-service tank inspections possible. Using a tethered robot, the technology combines vibration and fluid injection to modify the sludge environment. Once the robot has reduced sludge viscosity, it can use Phased Array Ultrasonic (PAUT) sensors to inspect the tank floor and send high-resolution imagery to operators to assess the tank's condition. The solution provides real-time data, so operators can produce more accurate maintenance schedules. This approach extends the asset's life, reduces lost revenue due to maintenance outages, and eliminates unnecessary maintenance costs. Additionally, it allows operators to meet regulatory requirements while mitigating risks such as human safety, environmental impact, and costs associated with tanks being out-of-service during inspection

The joint collaboration with Applied Impact Robotics and Chevron seeks to validate the technology's effectiveness through testing phases. Having access to Chevron’s storage tank assets will allow Applied Impact Robotics to validate the effectiveness of the robot and the PAUT technology with different sludge profiles. Combining this validation with demonstrating the liquefaction and robot propulsion techniques and the tethering reliability, Applied Impact Robotics will be closer to providing industry operators with a more cost-effective and safe solution for tank inspections.

For more information on Applied Impact Robotics’ technology, contact Joel Poe, Vice President, at +1 (512) 375-0011 or joel@appliedimpactrobotics.com.