Crawler robots are professional inspection tools made for remote inspection data collection in inaccessible or hazardous environments.
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There are three main types of robotic crawlers:
- Pipe crawlers are pipe inspection robots that navigate inside pipelines, providing live video footage so inspectors can identify issues without entering the pipes themselves, allowing them to efficiently edit video reports for comprehensive analysis.
- Wall crawlers utilize magnetic or vacuum systems to adhere to vertical surfaces, and are used for inspections and maintenance tasks in hard-to-reach areas.
- Tank crawlers are designed for internal inspections in storage tanks, navigating interior surfaces to collect data on corrosion, leaks, and structural integrity issues without the need for human entry.
See crawlers in each of these categories.
Other common terms for crawler robots include:
- Robotic crawlers
- Pipe inspection robots
- Crawl space inspection robots
- Inspection crawlers
- Pipe crawler robots
Here are all the topics we cover in this guide to crawler robots:
Crawler Robot Rentals and Sales
Want to buy or rent a robotic crawler? Keep reading to see the top options on the market.
Here are the types of crawlers we cover in this section:
Pipe Crawlers
1. Pipe Trekker A-150 Pipe Inspection Robot
The Pipe Trekker A-150 is engineered for effective sewer pipe inspections, accommodating pipes from 6 to 24 inches in diameter. Its compact design ensures ease of deployment in small to medium-sized pipes, making inspections quick and straightforward.
Key features of the Pipe Trekker A-150 include:
- High-definition pan/tilt camera to capture detailed visuals for clear inspection results.
- Weatherproof controller to ensure reliable operation in harsh weather conditions.
- Motorized lift arm that facilitates vertical navigation for thorough inspections.
Buy or rent the Pipe Trekker A-150.
2. Pipe Trekker A-200 Pipe Inspection Robot
The Pipe Trekker A-200 is designed for more demanding sewer and pipeline inspections, and is suitable for larger diameter pipes. It combines advanced technology with user-friendly features to ensure comprehensive and efficient inspections.
Key features of the Pipe Trekker A-200:
- Advanced camera system that offers enhanced imaging for larger pipe inspections.
- Durable construction built to endure tough environmental conditions.
- User-friendly interface that simplifies navigation and inspection processes.
Buy or rent the Pipe Trekker A-200.
3. Deep Trekker DT300 Pipe Crawler Robot
The Deep Trekker DT300 Series offers a versatile and rugged solution for underwater inspections and operations. Designed with durability and ease of use in mind, it’s suitable for a wide range of applications including infrastructure inspection, aquaculture, and environmental monitoring.
Key features of the Deep Trekker DT300 Series:
- Up to 8 hours of usage for extended inspections.
- Fully waterproof with a magnetically coupled drive for maintenance-free operation.
- A truly portable system with onboard batteries and a compact tether design.
4. Endo Control Crab Crawler Robot
The Endo Control Crab Crawler Robot is designed for precise and efficient pipe inspections. It features advanced maneuverability and high-quality imaging capabilities to navigate complex pipe systems effectively.
Key aspects include:
- Designed to navigate complex, intricate environments.
- High-resolution imaging for detailed inspections.
- Durable design for reliability in various conditions.
Buy or rent the Endo Control Crab Crawler Robot.
5. Deep Trekker DT840 UGV Pipe Crawler Robot
The Deep Trekker DT840 UGV is an advanced robotic crawler pipe inspection system designed for robust and versatile ground operations, suitable for a range of industrial inspections and maintenance tasks. It combines high-definition imaging with a rugged chassis to navigate and assess challenging environments efficiently.
Key features include:
- 4K recording wide-angle LCD screen controller
- Durable build made to withstand harsh operational conditions
- Intuitive controls for ease of navigation and task execution
Rent the Deep Trekker DT840 UGV.
6. Deep Trekker DT320 Mini Pipe Crawler
The Deep Trekker DT320 Mini Pipe Crawler is a compact and versatile solution for pipe inspection, designed for small diameter pipes. It offers high-quality imaging and robust maneuverability, making it ideal for a range of inspection tasks.
Key features include:
- Compact design for small diameter pipes.
- High-definition imaging for detailed inspections.
- Durable construction for challenging environments.
Buy or rent the Deep Trekker DT320 Mini Pipe Crawler.
7. Deep Trekker Pipe Crawler DT340
The Deep Trekker DT340 Pipe Crawler is engineered for durable and efficient pipeline inspections. It’s designed to navigate a variety of pipe diameters and conditions, providing clear and comprehensive imaging.
Key features:
- Robust design for diverse pipe environments.
- High-quality imaging for thorough inspections.
- User-friendly operation for efficient task execution.
Buy or rent the Deep Trekker Pipe Crawler DT340.
Wall Crawlers
1. MFE Enterprises—HPX Wall Crawler
The HPX Wall Crawler is designed for non-destructive testing and inspection of vertical structures and walls. It features advanced magnetic technology for secure adhesion and maneuverability on steel surfaces, providing detailed imaging for comprehensive evaluations.
Key features:
- Advanced magnetic technology for stable vertical navigation.
- High-resolution cameras for detailed visual inspection.
- Durable construction to withstand industrial environments.
2. Jireh Tripod Wall Crawler
The Jireh Tripod Wall Crawler is specifically engineered for precise and comprehensive inspections of vertical and overhead surfaces. Equipped with advanced features to navigate challenging terrains and provide detailed assessments, it is a rugged, adaptable tool for inspectors.
Key features:
- Innovative design for stable adherence to vertical structures.
- High-resolution imaging for clear and detailed inspections.
- Versatile adaptability for a range of inspection environments.
Rent the Jireh Tripod Wall Crawler.
Tank crawlers
1. MFE Enterprises—HSR Crawler
The HSR Crawler is tailored for high-resolution scanning in hard-to-reach areas, offering precise ultrasonic thickness measurements.
Key features:
- Advanced ultrasonic technology for accurate thickness measurements.
- Robust design for challenging industrial environments.
- Intuitive interface for efficient operation and data analysis.
2. Deep Trekker DT640—Utility Crawler
The Deep Trekker DT640 Utility Crawler is engineered for inspection and maintenance tasks across several industries. Its compact and robust design allows for operation in challenging environments, including underwater applications.
Key features include:
- High-definition camera for detailed inspections.
- Durable construction suitable for diverse terrains.
- Intuitive control system for precise maneuverability.
How to Use a Crawler Robot
A crawler robot uses a combination of mechanical, electronic, and software systems to navigate and perform tasks in various environments, the majority of which are inaccessible or hazardous for humans.
Initially, the inspection crawler is deployed into the area you want to inspect, where its movement is controlled remotely. Equipped with cameras and sensors, it captures real-time data or images of its surroundings remotely while the inspector stands at a safe distance.
As inspection data is transmitted back to the operator they analyze the condition of the area being inspected, identifying potential issues and navigating the crawler to specific locations for closer examination. Inspection data is also being recorded, and can be reviewed after the crawler returns for closer analysis.
This short step-by-step covers how inspectors use crawlers in their work:
- Deployment. The robotic crawler is placed in the starting location.
- Remote control. Operators guide the crawler robot using remote controls, often from a safe distance.
- Data collection. Cameras and sensors on the crawler robot gather visual and environmental data.
- Transmission. Data is sent back to the operator for analysis.
- Analysis. The operator assesses the data to make informed decisions or take further action, both live in the field and after the data is collected.
After analyzing the data from the crawler, operators can make decisions regarding maintenance, safety measures, or further inspection needs, ensuring efficient management of infrastructure, facilities, or other areas of interest.
Customizing Your Crawler Robot for Specific Tasks
Customizing your robotic crawler is key to maximizing its utility and efficiency in various inspection environments.
By carefully selecting and integrating these customizable components, your robotic crawler can be adapted to perform a wide range of tasks, from underwater inspections to confined space navigation, making it a versatile tool in your inspection toolkit.
Here’s how different components can be tailored to meet your unique needs:
- Camera systems. Choose from standard to high-definition cameras based on the level of detail required for your inspections. Advanced cameras can offer panoramic views or zoom capabilities for close-up inspections.
- Manipulator arms. Add manipulator arms for tasks that require interaction with the environment, such as picking up objects or performing minor repairs.
- Sensors and detectors. Equip your crawler with various sensors to detect different types of gas, measure radiation levels, or assess structural integrity through ultrasonic testing.
- Lighting options. Use adjustable lighting systems to ensure clear visibility in dark or murky conditions, crucial for underwater or enclosed space inspections.
- Track materials. Select tracks made from materials like rubber for general use or metal for added durability in harsh environments. The right track material ensures optimal traction and maneuverability—keep reading for more on track materials.
Choosing the Right Tracks for Your Inspection Crawler
Choosing the right tracks for your robotic crawler is crucial for optimizing its performance across different terrains and environments.
Different materials offer different advantages, and the right choice will depend on how and where you plan to use your crawler.
Here are the most common materials used for crawler robot tracks:
- Brass tracks. Known for their high weight, brass tracks provide excellent traction. They’re also non-sparking, making them safe for use in environments with potential explosive hazards.
- Stainless steel tracks. These tracks combine high weight with good traction, and are ideal for environments requiring stringent decontamination, such as nuclear facilities.
- Aluminum tracks. Lightweight yet sturdy, aluminum tracks allow for bigger payloads and are perfect for vertical or magnetic crawler operations in non-caustic environments.
The Top 5 Uses for Crawler Robots
1. Infrastructure Inspection
Examining pipelines, sewers, and tunnels for structural integrity.
In infrastructure inspections, robotic crawlers play a crucial role in assessing the condition of pipelines, tunnels, bridges, and buildings. They enable safe, efficient, and thorough examinations of structures, often in areas that are difficult or dangerous for humans to access.
Crawlers robots, with their advanced technology and adaptability, are transforming the way infrastructure inspections and maintenance are conducted, ensuring greater safety and reliability of essential structures.
Common uses in infrastructure inspections:
- Evaluating structural integrity and identifying potential issues.
- Detecting leaks, cracks, and corrosion in pipelines and tunnels.
- Surveying hard-to-reach areas of bridges and buildings.
Benefits to infrastructure maintenance:
- Enhance safety by reducing the need for human entry into potentially hazardous areas.
- Increase efficiency and accuracy of inspections with detailed, real-time data.
- Support preventive maintenance strategies, helping to avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of infrastructure assets.
2. Energy Sector Maintenance
Inspecting oil, gas, and nuclear facility components.
Crawler robots are essential tools in the energy sector, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of critical infrastructure like power plants, refineries, and offshore platforms. They provide a safe means to assess the condition of equipment and infrastructure, including pipelines, tanks, and structural components, often in environments that are hazardous or difficult to access for humans.
Common uses in energy sector maintenance:
- Inspecting for corrosion, leaks, and structural integrity.
- Monitoring the condition of underwater structures and pipelines.
- Assessing equipment in high-temperature or radioactive environments.
Benefits to the energy sector:
- Enhance safety by minimizing human exposure to dangerous conditions.
- Improve the reliability and efficiency of energy production facilities.
- Enable proactive maintenance, reducing the risk of unplanned outages and environmental incidents.
3. Environmental Monitoring
Assessing hard-to-reach natural habitats or disaster zones.
In environmental monitoring, crawler robots are essential for assessing ecosystems and pollution in inaccessible areas. They track changes in environments like forests, oceans, and disaster sites, providing crucial data for conservation and remediation efforts.
Robotic crawlers offer a non-intrusive way to gather detailed environmental data, crucial for protecting natural resources and ecosystems.
Common uses in environmental monitoring:
- Tracking pollution levels in water bodies and soil.
- Mapping habitats and biodiversity in remote areas.
- Assessing damage and recovery in disaster-impacted zones.
Benefits to environmental conservation:
- Enable comprehensive data collection without disturbing habitats.
- Support informed decision-making in environmental protection and policy.
- Facilitate timely and effective disaster response and remediation strategies.
4. Maritime Operations
Underwater inspections of ship hulls and port infrastructure.
Crawler robots provide invaluable insights into the condition of maritime structures, ensuring safe and efficient operations across the industry.
In maritime operations, robotic crawlers play a crucial role in the inspection and maintenance of ships and underwater structures.
Common uses in maritime operations:
- Conducting hull inspections for damage and biofouling.
- Surveying underwater infrastructure like pipelines and ports.
- Performing maintenance tasks in challenging underwater environments.
Benefits to maritime operations:
- Enhance safety by reducing the need for diver interventions.
- Ensure the integrity and efficiency of maritime assets.
- Support environmental compliance by monitoring biofouling and marine ecosystems.
5. Security and Surveillance
Remote monitoring in hazardous or inaccessible areas.
Inspection crawlers can be vital for maintaining security and situational awareness in sensitive or dangerous locations.
In security and surveillance, crawler robots are commonly deployed for monitoring and reconnaissance in areas that pose a risk to human operators.
Common uses in security and surveillance:
- Monitoring critical infrastructure like power plants and borders.
- Conducting reconnaissance in hostile or hazardous environments.
- Surveying areas after natural disasters or incidents.
Benefits to security operations:
- Enhances safety by keeping personnel out of harm’s way.
- Provides continuous surveillance without fatigue.
- Delivers real-time data for immediate response and decision-making.