Using ROVs for Tank Inspections

Inspecting the interior of a water storage tank traditionally meant draining it first. That approach is disruptive, time-consuming, and costly, particularly for large-capacity tanks that are in continuous operational use. ROV technology changes that entirely. Franklin Hodge uses remotely operated vehicles to carry out full internal tank surveys while the tank remains in service and full of water. 

What Is an ROV Tank Inspection? 

An ROV, or remotely operated vehicle, is a submersible device equipped with high-definition cameras and sensors that can be deployed directly into a full tank. It moves through the water under operator control, capturing real-time footage of the tank’s internal condition, including the floor, walls, liner, and any structural components. 

The footage is used to identify early signs of corrosion, liner degradation, sediment build-up, or structural damage, giving your team a clear, evidenced picture of the tank’s condition without any physical entry or operational interruption. 

Why ROV Inspections Are the Smarter Choice 

Draining a large water storage tank is not a straightforward task. It takes time, wastes significant volumes of treated water, and takes your tank out of service for a period that may not be operationally convenient. For fire protection tanks in particular, any period without full water reserves carries compliance and safety implications. 

ROV inspections remove those problems. The tank stays full, your systems stay operational, and you still receive a thorough, documented survey with the same diagnostic value as a traditional internal inspection. 

The practical advantages include: 

• No need to drain or refill the tank, saving both water and cost 
• No operational downtime for your fire protection or water storage system 
• Hard-to-reach areas inspected with the same precision as accessible surfaces 
• High-definition footage provided as part of a detailed condition report 

What the Survey Covers 

Franklin Hodge ROV inspections are used across a range of water storage tanks, including fire protection, drinking water, and process water vessels. The survey assesses the full internal condition of the tank, with findings compiled into a written report that outlines current condition, any issues identified, and recommendations for maintenance or remedial action. 

Where issues are found, Franklin Hodge can follow up with tank refurbishment services or liner replacement as part of our broader tank survey and maintenance offering. 

Talk to Franklin Hodge About ROV Tank Inspections 

If your tank is due for inspection and you want to avoid the disruption of draining, an ROV survey is worth discussing. Contact our team to find out more, or request a quote and we will be in touch with more detail on the service. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can an ROV inspect a tank that is still full of water?  

Yes, ROV inspections are specifically designed to be carried out while the tank remains in service. There is no need to drain the tank before the survey takes place. 

What can an ROV detect during a tank inspection?  

ROV surveys can identify corrosion, liner wear or damage, sediment accumulation, structural issues, and other internal defects that would otherwise require physical entry or full drainage to assess. 

Which tank types are suitable for ROV inspection?  

Franklin Hodge ROV inspections are suitable for fire protection tanks, drinking water tanks, and process water storage vessels. Contact our team to confirm suitability for your specific tank. 

What happens after the ROV survey is completed?  

You receive a detailed condition report with HD footage, findings, and recommendations. If remedial work is required, Franklin Hodge can advise on refurbishment or liner replacement options. 

Is an ROV inspection more cost-effective than a traditional survey?  

In most cases, yes. Eliminating the need to drain and refill the tank removes a significant portion of the time and cost associated with traditional internal inspections.