Keeping water storage tanks clean and structurally sound is essential for utilities, industrial facilities, data centres, manufacturing plants, fire protection systems, and water treatment operators. Traditional inspection and cleaning methods often require tanks to be drained, taken out of service, and entered by confined space personnel – resulting in significant downtime, increased costs, and additional safety risks.
The ASPIROV from Subsea Tech offers a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative.
What is ASPIROV?
ASPIROV is an innovative underwater robotic system that combines high-definition visual inspection with sediment removal in a single deployment. Designed specifically for potable water, industrial water, fire water, and demineralised water storage tanks, the robot enables operators to inspect and clean tanks without draining them or sending divers inside.
The system combines a Guardian Micro-ROV with a motorised suction skid, allowing operators to carry out comprehensive inspections while simultaneously removing sediment from the tank floor. This unique 2-in-1 solution has become a trusted technology for water utilities and industrial operators worldwide.
Why Avoid Draining a Tank?
Emptying a storage tank for maintenance can create significant operational challenges, including:
-
Service interruptions
-
Water loss
-
Increased labour costs
-
Confined space entry requirements
-
Health and safety risks
-
Longer maintenance schedules
ASPIROV eliminates many of these issues by allowing inspections and cleaning to take place while the tank remains operational, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
Key Features
2-in-1 Inspection and Cleaning
Unlike conventional inspection robots, ASPIROV performs both detailed visual inspections and sediment removal during the same operation, reducing maintenance time and improving productivity.
Lightweight and Portable
Weighing only around 12 kg, the system is easily transported and can be deployed by a single operator, making it ideal for contractors and maintenance teams working across multiple sites.
Designed for Challenging Environments
ASPIROV features:
-
Full HD front and rear cameras
-
Powerful LED lighting
-
Adjustable ballast system
-
Five-thruster manoeuvrability
-
Rolling suction skid for efficient cleaning
-
Operation at depths up to 100 metres
These capabilities allow the robot to navigate around pipework, valves, and other obstacles commonly found inside storage tanks.
Typical Applications
ASPIROV is suitable for a wide range of industries, including:
-
Drinking water reservoirs
-
Industrial process water tanks
-
Fire water storage tanks
-
Water treatment facilities
-
Power generation plants
-
Manufacturing facilities
-
Chemical processing plants
-
Oil & Gas facilities
Wherever regular tank maintenance is required, robotic inspection can significantly reduce operational disruption.
Safety First
One of the biggest advantages of robotic inspection is removing personnel from hazardous confined space environments.
Instead of requiring divers or maintenance teams to enter the tank, operators remain safely outside while controlling the robot remotely. This helps organisations improve safety compliance while reducing the risks associated with manual inspections.
Proven Around the World
ASPIROV has been deployed internationally for well over a decade by water utilities, industrial operators, maintenance contractors, and major organisations including projects supporting power generation, municipal water infrastructure, and industrial facilities. It has become a recognised solution for maintaining water storage assets while minimising operational downtime.
Why Choose Axis53?
As a UK supplier of advanced robotics and autonomous technologies, Axis53 provides innovative inspection solutions that improve safety, reduce operational costs, and help customers modernise maintenance programmes.
Whether you're responsible for municipal water infrastructure, industrial facilities, or critical fire protection systems, our team can advise on the most suitable robotic solution for your application.
Ready to Modernise Your Tank Maintenance?
If you're looking to reduce downtime, improve safety, and eliminate unnecessary tank draining, contact Axis53 today to learn more about the Subsea Tech ASPIROV and arrange a demonstration or discuss your operational requirements.
Robotics. Innovation. Safer Inspections.