January 2023

Aerial survey, also known as remote sensing, is a powerful tool for detecting leaks in pressurized sewer lines. By using thermal imaging cameras mounted on aircraft, both manned and unmanned, it is possible to quickly and accurately locate leaks in these critical infrastructure systems.

Pipeline inspection is an essential part of maintaining the integrity of pressurized sewer lines. These lines are responsible for transporting wastewater from homes and businesses to treatment facilities, and any leaks can cause serious environmental and health hazards. Traditional methods of inspection, such as manual visual inspections and closed-circuit television cameras, can be time-consuming and costly, and may not always provide an accurate picture of the condition of the pipes.

Thermal imaging cameras, on the other hand, can quickly and easily detect leaks in pressurized sewer lines. These cameras use infrared technology to detect temperature differences, which can indicate the presence of a leak. Because pressurized sewer lines are typically filled with water, a leak will result in a temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipe. Thermal imaging cameras can detect this difference, even from a great distance, making them a powerful tool for aerial survey and leak detection.

One of the key advantages of using thermal imaging cameras for aerial survey is the ability to cover a large area quickly and efficiently. A single flight can cover miles of pipeline, allowing for a comprehensive inspection in a short period of time. This is especially useful for inspecting pipelines in hard-to-reach areas, such as remote or densely populated areas.

Thermal imaging cameras can be mounted on manned aircraft, such as helicopters, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), such as drones. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of aircraft will depend on the specific needs of the inspection. Manned aircraft are typically larger and can carry more equipment, making them well suited for covering large areas or inspecting pipelines in remote or difficult-to-reach areas. UAVs, on the other hand, are smaller and more maneuverable, making them well suited for inspecting pipelines in densely populated areas or inspecting hard-to-reach areas.

The use of thermal imaging cameras for aerial survey is not limited to pressurized sewer lines. It can also be used to inspect other types of pipelines, such as gas pipelines, oil pipelines and even tributary systems. Some aerial surveys we assist are used to locate hydrocarbons using Optical Gas Imaging (OGI). See AerialOGI.com for more information on hydrocarbon leak detection. With the increasing importance of maintaining the integrity of our critical infrastructure systems, the use of thermal imaging cameras for aerial survey and leak detection is likely to become more widespread in the coming years.

For more information, please visit Aerial Thermal Imaging www.aerialthermalimaging.com