SPECIALIST global technology partner, thyssenkrupp Uhde, is complementing its EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) and modularisation capabilities and services with the supply of a comprehensive range of intelligent, cutting-edge laser scanning solutions.
“It is essentially a quick and efficient way to build a “digital twin” which can be used by customers in day-to-day operations, training and planning for new projects within a plant. Once gathered, the data is imported into a 3D software program and analysed by trained specialists”, states senior piping engineer at thyssenkrupp Uhde, Sundip Lokhande. “Our EPC and modularisation capabilities enable us to add further value, offering our customers an end-to-end solution,” says Lokhande
He provides some insight into how laser scanning technology works: “’Point clouds’ data is generated from the surface of an object captured by scanning from various angles. A typical plant will require multiple scans, which are then registered or ‘stitched’ together into one unified 3D model.”
ThyssenKrupp Uhde’s scope of supply to meet end users’ unique and individual scanning requirements includes short and long-range, 360-degree, 3D and thermal scanning as well as the option of using drones for the scanning of tall structures. Imagery can be captured in black and white as well as in colour. At thyssenkrupp Uhde, customers can always be ensured that the latest scanning technology is employed at all times to ensure the best possible results.
The extreme versatility of laser scanning makes this technology ideal for a host of applications and industries. It offers a fast, convenient, efficient and cost-effective solution for basically any site that operates bulk materials handling equipment, including mines, oil and gas and chemical plants.
This technology is also highly effective for challenging and complex plants and projects. Long-range scanners, which can scan up to 100m with great accuracy, are utilised for plants with limited access. “We can essentially scan anything on a plant – from reclaimer drums and pipes to furnaces and handrails. Moreover, materials such as steel, aluminium and metal can be scanned,” says Lokhande.
Further unpacking the application of laser scanning, Lokhande says it can be utilised for accurate design of green field or brown field plants including modifications and revamps. “The technology also enables us to conduct fault detection and damage assessment of machinery including day-to-day operational wear and tear, deflections and deformations.”
By combining laser scanning with thermal imagery i.e. by adding a thermal camera, thyssenkrupp Uhde is able to detect potentially hidden faults and other heat-related stressors in furnaces (refractories) and boilers. Lokhande explains that when cracks form in the refractory, heat passes through and heats up the body of the vessel leading to potential failure. “We scan the equipment from outside to detect the crack in the refractory with the problematic hotspots. As furnaces cannot be opened and need to operate continuously, our cutting-edge scanning technology can be done while the furnace is fully operational. As part of our preventative maintenance programme, we can determine the scope of repair and length of time required and thereby prevent unexpected catastrophic and costly failure. The customer is able to plan the necessary shutdown.” Lokhande adds.
