Innovative Internal Conditioning Robot for Steel Pipe Enhances Occupational Safety in Confined Spaces
Towngas Introduces Innovative Robot to Enhance Safety in Confined Spaces
In a groundbreaking move to address safety concerns related to working in confined spaces, the Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited (Towngas) has developed an “Internal Conditioning Robot for Steel Pipe.” This innovative robot is designed to replace manual labour by workers to perform tasks such as inner wall welding, polishing, and anti-rusting coating inside steel pipes, thereby eliminating the risks associated with workers entering confined spaces.
The Internal Conditioning Robot, resembling a small remote-controlled car, measures approximately 40 centimetres in length, 25 centimetres in width, and 30 centimetres in height. Operators can remotely control its movement within the gas steel pipes using pneumatic components, allowing it to travel 3 to 4 metres per minute to perform tasks efficiently. The robot also features a camera feed that enables operators to monitor the work progress in real time from inside the pipe.
The debut of the Internal Conditioning Robot at the OSH Innovation and Technology Expo garnered significant attention. Mr Lai Kam-to, General Manager – Distribution Operation of Towngas, highlighted the robot’s role in enhancing industrial safety, stating, “By replacing manual labour with robots for the work inside steel pipes, we eliminate the risks associated with our staff working in confined spaces. Moreover, the time required for the tasks is reduced by approximately half compared to manual operations, thus improving work efficiency.”
The advantages of the Internal Conditioning Robot were further recognized at the inaugural OSH Innovation & Technology Award, where Towngas secured the Silver Award in the Open Category. This accolade acknowledges Towngas’ commitment to applying innovative technology to enhance occupational safety. Mr Lai emphasized that Towngas will continue to invest in sustainable development and occupational safety, as well as health innovation projects, to create a safer and more convenient working environment for employees in the future.
With its ability to handle smaller pipe diameters and eliminate occupational safety risks associated with manual welding and polishing processes, the Internal Conditioning Robot represents a significant step towards ensuring safety in confined spaces within the industry. Towngas’ innovative approach to enhancing safety through technology sets a new standard for occupational safety practices.
For media inquiries and further information about the Internal Conditioning Robot for Steel Pipe, please contact Ms May Tam, Assistant Corporate Affairs Manager, or Ms Kara Kwong, Senior Corporate Affairs Officer at Towngas.