Square Robot, Inc., a company specialising in robotic tank inspections, has knocked down two more barriers for its onstream, robotic tank inspections. The SR-3 submersible robot has formally received the NEC/CEC Class I Division 2 (C1D2) certification and side launcher has received the NEC/CEC Class I Division 1 certification (C1D1).
The C1D2 and C1D1 certifications were issued by third-party Nationally Recognised Test Lab, FM Approvals, proving the systems safe for use in hazardous locations. As part of the operating methodology for launching into floating roof tanks, often containing low flashpoint products, the side launcher's C1D1 certification confirms the safe deployment and retrieval of the SR-3 robot in these environments. The products became commercially available in the fall of 2023, after completing initial milestone testing in partnership with ExxonMobil.
These certifications expand the company’s service portfolio, allowing it to tackle a market that was previously only available for inspections by taking the tank offline. The combination makes them the first robotic company to safely inspect a new group of low flash point product tanks.
“Our customers have been eagerly awaiting the certifications since our witness testing in 2024. With the C1D2 and C1D1 stamps now in hand, it opens up a new group of tank candidates available for robotic tank inspections. We’re proud to be pioneers in this industry, and continue to develop new technology based on our client’s needs”, said John Hazel, Vice President, Operations and Chief Inspector.