1. Does the utility operator need to anything in preparation for the inspection?
 As opposed to dry or diver inspection there is no preparation required by the utility operator for a TankRover™ inspection. Unlike diver inspection you do not need to isolate the tank, which means no valve turning, pumping or loss of pressure. There is also no need for follow up bacteria testing or disinfection.
 2. Is there any possibility of water contamination by the ROV?
 The TankRover™ unit is constructed of inert high density plastics. Even the critical thruster bearing seals have be filled with a food grade glycerin. The unit is disinfected before every inspection in accordance with AWWA C652 using a 200 ppm+ chlorine solution on all components that enter the water. Unlike with divers there is no concern over medical records or discharged breathing air into the water.
 3. How much detail can be viewed through the video camera?
 The TankRover™ is equipped with a 12:1 macro zoom video camera which allows the inspector to zoom in and clearly view surface features as small as 1/32". The power wire cleaning tool cleans off all surface debris, corrosion products and failed coating permitting the inspector to see pits, cracks and weld corrosion.
 
4. Can still photographs be provided of the internal inspection?

Extech is able to digitally capture any individual frame of the color video and print those frames in high quality full color. These stills are equal to a 35 mm camera photos and are provided in the written report.

 
5. Has the ROV inspection been directly compared with dry and diver inspections?

Extech has had the opportunity to directly compare the results of a diving inspection with a TankRover™ inspection. The level of detail and surface coverage of the TankRover™ was equal to the diver method, but the TankRover™ caused much less turbidity than the diver. This allowed for clearer pictures and better close-ups. It should be noted that the TankRover™ inspector had a better understanding of coating failure mechanisms, because we are inspectors first! We have over 25 years of corrosion, tank and inspection experience.
 
6. Can the ROV view larger sections of the internal surfaces?
When tanks are dark due to surface staining they absorb light. When tanks are dark they are difficult for both divers and ROV's to get wide shots. The TankRover™ carriers three high intensity halogen lamps as opposed to one or two normally carried by dives. This extra light allows for better wide views even in the darkest tanks. The Extech TankRover™ is equipped with a 1 lux camera that can operate in natural light.

7. What credentials should I demand for tank inspection personnel?

The real value of a comprehensive tank inspection is the projections and recommendations made by your tank inspector. You should demand that the on site inspector have NACE Coating Certifications and API-653 Atmospheric Tank Inspection Certifications. Without these certifications all you get is confusing pictures.