Drone performs measurement flights at cement factory

This week, an important milestone was reached at Holcim’s cement factory in Siggenthal in the canton of Aargau. After several years of research, a special drone created by the Zurich-based startup Voliro performed its first official measurement flight campaign there. According to a press release, important measurements were performed during this to determine the thickness of the steel walls of the cement kiln and the cyclone preheater.

Voliro, a spinoff from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH), specializes in developing flying robots for the inspection and maintenance of industrial facilities. Its drones can be equipped with various sensors and perform visual, thermal and contact-based measurements. A special feature of the drones is that they can rotate on all axes using a special rotor system. This enables them to perform maneuvers in vertical positions and even upside down. The 360-degree design also makes them suitable for measurements on curved and sloping surfaces.

According to the press release, the use of these special drones at high altitudes is a world first. This method saves both time and money. Furthermore, the use of drones increases occupational safety.

Holcim has been supporting product development at Voliro since 2019. The globally active cement company based in Zug provides its infrastructure in Siggenthal to the startup for test flights and supports it with its specialist knowledge.