At Suez RV Osis, inspectors are revolutionizing the way wastewater systems are assessed using the Elios 2 drone. This innovative approach ensures complete coverage and enhances safety during sewer inspections. Here's how they're doing it.

Suez RV Osis is a leading French company specializing in waste management and infrastructure maintenance. With a strong focus on innovation, the company has embraced advanced technologies to improve efficiency and safety in its operations.

As part of their regular operations, Suez RV Osis conducts thorough inspections of wastewater systems across France, both in urban and rural areas. These inspections are essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the entire network.

The complexity of the environments they work in means that inspectors must be adaptable. From large city-wide systems to older masonry-based networks beneath homes, each site presents unique challenges.

These sewer inspections are vital for several reasons:

• Identifying blockages caused by sediment or debris buildup
• Evaluating the current condition and performance of the system
• Detecting structural issues that could lead to collapse or failure

French Law Drives Increased Demand for Sewer Inspections

A new national law requires all major cities in France to inspect their wastewater infrastructure by 2026. This regulation has placed significant pressure on local governments, prompting them to seek out experts like Suez RV Osis for assistance.

In Toulouse, for example, over 3,700 kilometers of sewer pipes need to be inspected. The project is massive, requiring extensive resources and coordination. However, this challenge has also driven the adoption of more efficient and safer inspection methods.

Advancements in Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) technology have played a key role in this transformation. Suez RV Osis has been at the forefront of integrating these innovations into its workflow.

A drone image captured during a Suez sewer inspection

Traditionally, Suez inspectors used various manual methods, such as rolling cameras on carts, floating CCTV equipment, or entering pipelines directly. However, these approaches come with limitations and risks, especially in older or unstable systems.

Many of the sewers they inspect pose serious dangers, including the risk of collapse, high water levels, slippery surfaces, and exposure to harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide. Because of these hazards, only about 80% of the infrastructure can be inspected using traditional methods.

Embracing Innovation for Complete Coverage

To inspect the remaining 20%, Suez RV Osis has turned to cutting-edge tools like drones, floating robots, and specialized rovers. The company is known for its proactive approach to adopting new technologies to enhance data collection and safety.

One of the most effective tools in their arsenal is the Elios 2 from Flyability. This compact, durable drone is designed for confined spaces and can navigate complex environments without causing damage.

“We've been using Flyability’s Elios drones since they were first introduced. They’re perfect for sewer inspections,” says Phillipe Bonnin, Drone Development Manager at Suez RV Osis.

The Elios 2 features a protective cage that allows it to safely collide with obstacles, making it ideal for navigating narrow, unpredictable sewer systems. This design is crucial when working in fragile masonry structures that could be easily damaged.

[Related read: 8 Key Benefits of Indoor Drones for Sewer Inspections]

With the Elios 2, Suez RV Osis achieves full coverage of its sewer networks while significantly increasing inspection speed. Traditional methods allowed for about 400–600 meters of inspection per day, but the Elios 2 can cover up to 900 meters daily—up to double the previous rate.

The team is also experimenting with Flyability’s Inspector 3.0 software, which helps pinpoint defects in collected footage. This precision allows for targeted maintenance, reducing unnecessary digging and improving overall efficiency.

How Suez Plans and Executes Drone Missions

While drones are a powerful tool, they are just one part of the inspection process. At Suez RV Osis, the real value lies in how the collected data is analyzed and used to guide maintenance decisions.

The term “inspection flight” refers to a structured process involving planning, execution, and post-flight analysis. Each step is carefully managed to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.

A pilot operating the Elios 2 inside a sewer during an inspection

During flights, inspectors look for signs of structural damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or root intrusions, as well as functional issues like sediment buildup or blockages. The Elios 2’s high-quality lighting and camera make it easier to spot even the smallest details.

“The Elios 2 performs exceptionally well in underground structures due to its excellent lighting and image quality,” says Phillipe Bonnin. “It gives us the clarity we need to conduct thorough and accurate inspections.”

Key Benefits of the Elios 2 for Sewer Inspections

The use of the Elios 2 has brought numerous advantages to Suez RV Osis:

• Full Coverage: Ensures no area is missed during inspections
• Speed: Increases inspection rates by up to 100% or more
• Image Quality: Provides clear, detailed visuals for better decision-making
• Data Localization: Helps identify exact defect locations for precise repairs
• Personnel Efficiency: Reduces the number of people needed for each inspection

By leveraging the power of the Elios 2, Suez RV Osis is setting a new standard for wastewater infrastructure inspections in France—and beyond.

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