Sewer Inspections by Drone: How Suez RV Osis Uses the Elios 2 to Ensure 100% Coverage When Inspecting Wastewater Infrastructure

Sewer Inspections by Drone: How Suez RV Osis Uses the Elios 2 to Ensure Full Coverage in Wastewater Infrastructure

At Suez RV Osis, a French waste management company, drone technology is revolutionizing how sewer systems are inspected. The team uses the Elios 2 indoor drone to achieve complete coverage during wastewater infrastructure assessments. Here’s how they’re doing it.

Suez RV Osis is a leading provider of waste management services in France, working across urban and rural areas to maintain critical wastewater systems. Their work involves regular inspections of sewer networks, which are essential for identifying blockages, structural issues, and potential failures that could lead to costly repairs or even collapses.

These inspections are vital for maintaining the integrity of the system. They help identify clogs caused by sediment buildup, assess the current state of the network, and detect early signs of structural damage that could lead to catastrophic failure.

French Law Drives Increased Inspection Demand

With a new national law requiring all major cities in France to inspect their wastewater infrastructure by 2026, the pressure on companies like Suez RV Osis has never been higher. In Toulouse alone, there are over 3,700 kilometers of sewer pipes that need to be checked—an enormous task that demands both time and resources.

This legal requirement, combined with advancements in remote visual inspection (RVI) technology, has pushed Suez RV Osis to adopt innovative solutions. One such solution is the use of drones, particularly the Elios 2, which offers a safer and more efficient way to inspect hard-to-reach areas.

Traditionally, inspectors used methods like rolling cameras on carts, floating CCTV equipment, or even entering the sewers themselves. However, these approaches come with significant risks—such as exposure to harmful gases, unstable structures, and high water levels—and only cover about 80% of the network.

Innovative Solutions for the Remaining 20%

To cover the remaining 20%, Suez RV Osis has turned to cutting-edge technologies, including flying and floating drones, as well as specialized rovers. Among these tools, the Elios 2 stands out for its durability and ability to navigate tight, hazardous spaces safely.

"We’ve been using Flyability’s Elios drones since their launch, and they've proven to be perfect for sewer inspections," says Phillipe Bonnin, Drone Development Manager at Suez RV Osis. "The cage design allows them to bump into walls without getting damaged, which is crucial when working in fragile masonry environments."

The Elios 2 not only ensures full coverage but also significantly speeds up the process. While traditional methods allow for 400–600 meters of inspection per day, the Elios 2 can cover up to 900 meters daily, boosting efficiency by up to 100% or more.

Additionally, the team uses Flyability’s Inspector 3.0 software to precisely locate defects found during inspections. This level of accuracy helps maintenance crews target specific areas for repair, reducing unnecessary digging and saving time and resources.

How Suez Plans and Executes Drone Missions

While drones are a powerful tool, they are just one part of the overall inspection process. At Suez RV Osis, the term “inspection flight” includes several key steps:

  • Step 1: Planning – Pilots collaborate with local teams to map out access points, security protocols, and equipment needs.
  • Step 2: Flight – During the actual inspection, the drone pilot works closely with the inspector to gather all necessary visual data.
  • Step 3: Data Processing & Reporting – After the flight, the data is analyzed, and detailed reports are generated to meet national compliance standards.

For deeper inspections, Suez personnel often use range extenders, allowing the Elios 2 to fly up to 200 meters inside a pipe. This enables thorough checks for structural and functional issues, from cracks and corrosion to sediment buildup and root intrusions.

Key Benefits of the Elios 2

The adoption of the Elios 2 has brought numerous advantages to Suez RV Osis, including:

  • Full Coverage – Ensures no part of the sewer system is missed.
  • Increased Speed – Doubles or triples the amount of infrastructure inspected daily.
  • High-Quality Imaging – Powerful lighting and camera resolution provide clear visuals for accurate assessments.
  • Precise Data Localization – Helps pinpoint exact locations of defects for efficient repairs.
  • Reduced Workforce – Fewer people are needed on-site, improving safety and operational efficiency.

As the demand for reliable and safe sewer inspections continues to grow, Suez RV Osis is setting a new standard with the use of advanced drone technology. By embracing innovation, the company is not only meeting regulatory requirements but also ensuring the long-term health of France’s wastewater infrastructure.

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