Specialist Infrared Payload Course for Drone Operators is a UK First

The APS (Aerial Payload Specialist) Infrared Course enables delegates to utilise aerial IR equipment to view or collect thermal data in the most effective manner. This is achieved by familiarising attendees with established and proven techniques used in planning and execution of commercial aerial surveys. Delegates are issued with the APS Infrared certificate upon completion of a ground-school multiple-choice exam and a practical flight assessment.

Overview

• Two-day theoretical and practical course for UAVs
• Course to be held on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 March
• Designing a sustainable workflow
• Surveying styles and techniques
• Choosing appropriate equipment
• Practical exercise examining buildings and roofs

There are many aspects to be considered when buying, assembling or operating thermal imaging equipment associated with unmanned aerial vehicles or drones. Subject to weather, the first day is classroom-based. Topics include airframe types, camera selection, pertinent air laws, human factors, environmental conditions, workflow and customer deliverables.

On the second day, the practical session will be run from the company's Bosham base, with fully equipped briefing room, workshop and flying facilities. Delegates will have the opportunity to plan, rig, test and execute an aerial thermographic survey.

Aerial Thermography

Thermography is a specialist non-invasive technique which uses infrared-sensitive cameras to detect heat-loss – both in terms of location and severity - as part of routine maintenance or fault-finding. Aerial thermography is a rapidly expanding advance which allows for the safe and efficient inspection of hard-to-reach areas.

Drones are used to conduct technical inspections using specialist, purpose built thermal imaging cameras that are ideal for surveying roofs, large buildings and wide geographical areas. New ‘gas find’ UAV IR cameras for the oil, gas and utility industries are already in service providing exceptional results in areas previously considered impossible to survey.

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles provides safer options for engineers who may otherwise rely on rope access or working at height. Additionally the systems provide significant financial savings compared to alternative techniques

Unmanned aerial platforms are cost-effective: apart from the financial savings compared to alternative techniques, using a drone often is far safer for engineers relying on rope access or working at height.

Further Information

This course is proving extremely popular and places are strictly limited.