Panel tanks are used to store drinking water, wastewater, and various liquids, highlighting the need for thorough inspections to maintain their integrity and efficiency. Given the critical nature of panel tank inspections, utilizing underwater drone footage has emerged as a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods.
In line with recommendations from the American Water Works Association (AWWA), using underwater drones for panel tank inspections can reduce the risks associated with confined spaces while improving the speed and accuracy of inspections.
Therefore, underwater drone inspections have become an essential tool for ensuring the safety and reliability of FRP panel tanks, benefiting both maintenance personnel and those dependent on these tanks for clean water.
What are the Benefits of Adhering to AWWA Guidelines?
The American Water Works Association (AWWA) provides comprehensive guidelines for the design, operation, and maintenance of water systems. Following AWWA standards is crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and sustainability of our water systems. By adopting these best practices, water system operators can protect public health and deliver high-quality water to consumers.
AWWA standards cover various aspects of water system operations, including water treatment, distribution, and storage. These guidelines address a wide range of topics such as water quality monitoring, disinfection, and corrosion prevention. Compliance with these recommendations allows water system operators to implement best practices and meet regulatory standards.
Moreover, AWWA standards promote consistency across the water industry, which is especially important for public water systems serving large populations. By adhering to AWWA guidelines, these systems can establish a framework for managing and maintaining water quality that is recognized and respected by regulators, customers, and other stakeholders.
AWWA Guidelines for Underwater Drone Inspections of Panel Tanks
Numerous AWWA standards and publications regarding underground water tank inspections and maintenance may also be relevant to drone underwater inspections of panel tanks. These include the following:
AWWA D100-11: Welded Steel Water Storage Tanks
This standard establishes the minimum criteria for the design, construction, inspection, and maintenance of welded steel water storage tanks. It outlines inspection, repair, and maintenance standards specifically tailored for underwater drone inspections.
AWWA M42: Steel Water-Storage Tanks AWWA M42
This guidebook provides comprehensive information on the design, construction, inspection, and maintenance of steel water storage tanks. It encompasses tank inspection and maintenance procedures, including schedules, techniques, and repair protocols.
AWWA D121-12: Bolted Aboveground Thermosetting Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Panel-Type Tanks for Water Storage
Bolted fiberglass-reinforced plastic water storage tanks must adhere to the design, construction, inspection, and maintenance criteria outlined in this standard. While the standard covers tank inspection, repair, and maintenance, it does not include provisions for underwater drone inspections.
AWWA M58: Internal Water Tank Inspection
This guidebook discusses internal inspections of steel and concrete water tanks, including inspection methods, equipment, and safety protocols, which could potentially be relevant to underwater drone inspections.
Advantages of Utilizing Underwater Drone Inspections for Panel Tanks According to AWWA Standards
When performed in accordance with American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards, underwater drone inspections of panel tanks provide several advantages for improving the safety and efficiency of water system operations. These benefits include the following:
- Enhanced Safety
Underwater drone inspections can eliminate the need for divers to enter the tank, which is potentially hazardous. Utilizing underwater drones allows operators to reduce the risks associated with confined spaces and underwater work, thereby removing the need for costly and time-consuming safety protocols.
- Accurate and Thorough Inspections
Underwater drone inspections can provide a more comprehensive and detailed assessment of the tank compared to traditional methods. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors can capture precise images and measurements of the tank’s condition, enabling the detection of potential issues and areas requiring attention.
- Cost and Time Efficiency
Water system operators can achieve cost savings due to the increased speed and efficiency of underwater drone inspections compared to traditional methods. By reducing downtime and minimizing the need for additional equipment and personnel, underwater drone inspections can help manage maintenance and repair expenses.
- Regulatory Compliance
AWWA regulations mandate regular inspections of water storage tanks to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Underwater drone inspections can help meet these criteria by providing accurate and comprehensive data on the tank’s condition, allowing operators to make maintenance and repair decisions that align with regulatory requirements.
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