CYBERHAWK INSPECTS UK’S LARGEST CHIMNEY STACK
Sector Power Generation
Region Europe
Constructed in 1969 to withstand hurricane-force winds, the chimney stands 259 metres tall. At the time of construction, it was the largest industrial chimney in the world.
It was essential for both chimneys to remain online throughout the inspections, meaning Cyberhawk was required to work onsite while the power station was fully operational, and around other day-to-day activities taking place on site.
Alternative methods for carrying out this scope of work, such as rope access, elevated cradles or scaffolding, would have taken weeks to complete the inspections and even longer when their erection and dismantling was included.
The two-man team, consisting of an experienced pilot and a certified inspector engineer, had to select specific flight positions to inspect the full circumference of the chimneys. The team also had to follow strict VLOS (visual line of site) protocols, which meant that whilst flying, the pilot had to remain in sight of the drone.
Constructed in 1969 to withstand hurricane-force winds, the chimney stands 259 metres tall. At the time of construction, it was the largest industrial chimney in the world.
It was essential for both chimneys to remain online throughout the inspections, meaning Cyberhawk was required to work onsite while the power station was fully operational, and around other day-to-day activities taking place on site.