MACAW Engineering Buys Fleet of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems

MACAW Engineering is investing in the latest technology to provide inspections and surveys at challenging locations.

MACAW, which acts as an integrity management consultant to global oil & gas production plants, pipelines, and other energy facilities, has purchased a fleet of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS). The SUAS can be equipped with a wide range of high quality photographic and video equipment to give close visual access to the sites inspected by MACAW.

MACAW, a member of NOF Energy, the business development organisation, continually explores more effective and efficient ways of inspecting difficult to access environments and locations.

Safety is central to the company’s operations and it is training staff, who will operate the SUAS, to the stringent standards set by the Civil Aviation Authority.

The company, based at Quorum Business Park, Newcastle, works with global operators in more than 40 countries to reduce risk, maintain reliability and extend the lifespan of infrastructure, pipelines and plants. Services provided by the firm, which employs 85 people, include corrosion, paint and coating inspections, site surveys and audits, risk assessments and failure investigations.

Paul Casson, MACAW Principal Engineer, said: “The investment in SUAS will enable us to inspect challenging or previously inaccessible locations, such as bridge crossings and wind farms, in an efficient and safe manner.

“Our reputation has been built on training staff to the highest standards. This philosophy continues with the addition of SUAS to our business portfolio with operators being tutored to very high standards and the strict adherence to Civil Aviation Authority regulations.”

Joanne Leng MBE, Deputy Chief Executive at NOF Energy, the business development organisation for oil, gas, nuclear and offshore renewable sectors, said: “This latest investment by MACAW Engineering is an excellent example of how a technology-focused energy supply chain is helping the UK make its mark in worldwide markets.

“MACAW is already highly respected for its expertise within the energy sectors and the addition of SUAS to its service provision will further strengthen its global position.”

Press release, April 16, 2014; Image: MACAW