MOL Cooperates In Demonstration Test Of Class Survey Using Drones

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) announced that it participated in a demonstration test of ship class survey using aerial drones to inspect a MOL-operated coal carrier in service, along with Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK), Hitachi Systems, Ltd., and Mitsui Co., Ltd.

The demonstration test included a simulated ship inspection inside the cargo hold and ballast tank (which holds water used to balance the ship when it is not carrying cargo), using video shot from an aerial drone.

The test verified the effectiveness of using drones to monitor rust, corrosion, and the presence of cracks.

MOL Cooperates in Demonstration Test of Class Survey Using Drones — Image Credit: mol.co.jp ( Demonstration test by ClassNK)

ClassNK has conventionally conducted visual inspections while ship management companies handle maintenance and inspection works by assembling scaffolds during dry docking. The use of a drone is expected to contribute to improved operational safety and efficiency since these processes require work to be done at great heights and in dangerous environments.