ABB Launches HoverGuard, the World’s Fastest Drone-based Leak Detection

ABB, a leading global player in numerous industrial markets, recently launched their HoverGuard drone. According to the company, it’s the world’s fastest, most sensitive drone-based leak detection and greenhouse gas measuring system, and could play a key role in meeting inspection and regulatory requirements.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the vast majority of American natural gas shipments utilize millions of miles of pipeline. And while this infrastructure has proven to be efficient, it’s not without potential safety and environmental risks.

Late last year, the PIPES, or Protecting Our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act, was signed into law. The focus of the new legislation is to ensure natural gas pipeline operators are implementing the latest leak detection tools and technologies. HoverGuard could offer one such solution. The UAV-based system utilizes traditional ordorless gas detection tools, but is able to go a step further in quantifying and mapping leaks at distances of up to 300’ from pipelines or storage facilities.

According to ABB, the HoverGuard is also the first to quantify individual amounts of methane, carbon dioxide and water vapor while airborne. The additional data allows for producing cloud-based reporting that should lead to a quicker response from operators when a leak is detected, while the drone-based dynamics offer a safer way to conduct an inspection.

The UAV can reach speeds of up to 55 mph and altitudes of 130 feet.