High above the ground, skilled paint crews have traditionally navigated the external shells of massive storage tanks, laboriously applying anticorrosive coatings. Often working from mobile cherry pickers or gondolas, these crews might spend up to a month completing the coatings, subject to the tank’s size and the intricacy of the system being applied. The challenge is twofold: the duration of the project and the potential risks of working at such heights for extended periods.

On the banks of the River Thames, in the southern part of England, stands the Shell Haven terminal – a pivotal facility demanding utmost attention and care. Tasked with extending the service life of Tank 1374 by five more years, Shell enlisted the expertise of W.G. Beaumont & Son Ltd. However, rather than default to traditional methods, a groundbreaking approach was taken.

Our collaboration with Shell and Beaumonts led to the integration of a game-changer in the world of tank maintenance: the patented 10Q robot.

The 10Q robot didn’t just fulfill its duty—it exceeded expectations:

1. Efficiency Redefined: The entire coating process was wrapped up in less than 10 days. To put that in perspective, using the 10Q robot trimmed the typical project timeframe by approximately 10 days.
2. Unmatched Speed:  The 10Q showcased peak performance rates of about 1,733 ft²/hr (161 m²/hr). Its best day witnessed a coverage of 7,803 ft² (725 m²)—three times what traditional methods might achieve in the same span.
3. Safety Amplified: The need for workers to be high above the ground plummeted by an estimated 80%, drastically enhancing the safety aspects of the project.
4. Precision Perfected: The 10Q’s innovative spray shielding hood ensured a premium finish, enhancing the tank’s appearance and ensuring minimal overspray.

Through innovation and collaboration, the transformation of Tank 1374 was not just about maintenance—it was a testament to the potential of modern technology in reshaping industry standards. By harnessing the power of the 10Q robot, we not only achieve quicker results but also prioritize the safety and quality of the task at hand. At the heart of this success story, our brand promise stands clear: “helping clients deliver Faster, Safer, Cleaner solutions.”