Phillips 66 recently worked with Square Robot and Veritank to perform its first in-service inspection of the interior of an aboveground diesel storage tank.

Square Robot designed and manufactured the robot used for the inspection, according to a news release, and has received National Electric Code Class 1, Division 2 (C1D2) certification allowing inspections to occur while the tank is in-service and filled with product. This gives Veritank the ability to evaluate tank bottom integrity without draining product, which saves money and reduces the need for personnel to enter the tank.

The robot also captures high-clarity images of the interior while in the tank, which gives insight into the tank’s sediment levels and coating condition.

“The ongoing collaboration with the Phillips 66 team of inspection and safety experts has been invaluable during the testing and qualification phase,” Veritank CEO Clint Collins said, according to the release. “As we launch and commercialize this new service offering, it is paramount that we maintain our focus on safety and install robust deployment processes while continuing to find new ways to provide value-added services to tank owners and operators.”

In the next phase of development, Square Robot will deliver a system certified for C1D1 operations. This will allow in-service inspections of lower flash point liquid storage tanks, such as crude and gasoline.