
Why choose the Elios 3 drone for sewer inspections?
Unlike traditional RVI tools like CCTV, the Elios 3 can easily be deployed inside pipes with diameters larger than 75 cm. With a unique design for inspections in contact with its surroundings, the drone can navigate openings as small as 60x60cm and navigate obstructions without fear of collisions.
Equipped with a close-up visual inspection payload, the Elios 3 can be swiftly deployed to capture 4K footage and 12-megapixel images, working to provide rapid insights in previously inaccessible areas. The drone adheres to official reporting standards, with all points of interest recorded in flight precisely located in a digital twin of the asset that can be evaluated within the Inspector software solution.
When mounted with the Surveying Payload, the Elios 3 and its partner FARO Connect software can georeference sewage infrastructure with centimeter-level accuracy, enhancing situational awareness for planning, maintenance, and emergency response.

Image represents: Georeferencing of a 150m sewage pipe section, scanned from one entry point.
The benefits of integrating drones for pipelines and sewage systems inspections
Safely inspect inaccessible places
Access sections of sewer systems through manholes and other small entry points. Quickly collect data from a safe distance, regardless of obstructions, access issues, or confined space entry procedures.
Pinpoint & document
any defects
In line with official reporting standards, you can localize the exact position of defects found during an inspection within the 3D model of your asset, for improved assessment and maintenance work processes.
Collect objective & precise data
Provide a crystal clear view of the pipe and assets’ conditions with 4K video footage and centimeter-accurate scans. The Elios 3 provides greater control over data capture compared to other RVI tools such as CCTV.

Access advanced drone capabilities for a range of water & wastewater applications
Exploring applications for our drones in the water & wastewater management industry
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Culvert inspection (cockpit view)
Read moreUse a drone to precisely localize collapses, problems with joints or seams, and buildup of debris that could obstruct the flow of water.
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Culvert inspection (software output)
Read moreOnce the mission is completed, download the drone data into Inspector, the Elios 3’s companion software. Review each flight frame by frame and precisely localize all points of interest within a 3D model of the asset.
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Georeferencing of underground networks
Read morePrecisely geolocate detected networks in space and generate centimeter-accurate maps of inaccessible sewer systems.
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Wastewater settling basin inspection & software output
Read moreUse the Elios 3 to rapidly assess tank condition, checking for deterioration, leaks, corrosion, etc. Conduct detailed inspections of ancillary equipment such as pumps, flanges, and joints inside the tank. Back in the office, analyze mission-recorded points of interest precisely using Inspector.
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Sewage system inspection
Read moreFly the drone inside sewer systems with diameters as small as 75 cm. Scan galleries at a pace of 900 meters per day of inspection.
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Canal inspection and photogrammetry
Read moreUse a drone to spot a collapse and make a photogrammetric model to localize and measure it in the pipe.
See how the Elios has changed the way Veolia performs water and wastewater inspections
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“Thanks to the Elios 3 drone, we've effectively eliminated most of the risks associated with these confined spaces.”
Julien Maj
Local Service Manager at Veolia Water
They already use our products