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Recently, the FlatFish subsea inspection drone has passed a series of functional acceptance tests in Trieste, Italy. These maneuvers were carried out under the direct supervision of Petrobras technicians, who confirm that the unit is ready to meet the demands of the deepest oil fields on the planet. The positive outcome of these evaluations marks the conclusion of a contractual phase started in 2023 and allows for the immediate transition to implementation in real-world scenarios.
Guaranteed autonomy of the FlatFish drone on the seabed
Throughout the testing sessions, the autonomous underwater vehicle demonstrated flawless operational capability. The robot performed inspection missions without human intervention, focusing its efforts on monitoring pipelines and complex structures.
Likewise, the drone’s advanced sensors allowed for precise cathodic protection measurements and the evaluation of metal wall thickness with a minimal margin of error. The quality of the data obtained meets the rigorous standards required by the energy industry for assets located at depths of 3,000 meters.
The collaboration between Italian engineering and the Brazilian state-owned company is fundamental to reducing dependence on surface support vessels. This technological advancement makes maintenance operations safer and more sustainable, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
The FlatFish drone is a standalone tool that is part of a family of robots designed for prolonged subsea residency. The next destination for this unit will be the Brazilian coast, where it will operate in a real marine environment to consolidate its leadership in industrial robotics.
Source and photo: Saipem