Bridging the Gap : Safer, Smarter Bridge Inspections for Aurecon & Snowy Hydro

Overview

National Drones was engaged to conduct comprehensive bridge inspections for Aurecon and Snowy Hydro across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Our mission was to capture high-resolution LiDAR and photogrammetry data to assist in updating Snowy Hydro’s spatial asset register, enabling engineers to perform detailed inspections remotely.

Project Scope

We surveyed approximately 38 bridges, along with select dams and spillways, leveraging state-of-the-art drone technology to generate:

• High-resolution photogrammetry models: Enabling engineers to analyze structural integrity in exceptional detail.
• LiDAR point clouds: Providing accurate 3D representations of bridge structures for assessment and maintenance planning.
• Live-streamed inspections: Allowing engineers to receive real-time data, improving efficiency and reducing the need for physical site visits.

Deliverables

All captured data was delivered through our proprietary SmartData platform, enabling engineers to conduct in-depth analysis using multiple view types. Key deliverables included:

• Photogrammetry meshes: Providing detailed 3D surface models of bridges for structural assessment.
• LiDAR point clouds: High-accuracy spatial data, offering precise measurement capabilities.
• Raw inspection view images: Synchronized with the 3D model, allowing engineers to cross-reference high-resolution imagery with the digital model for a comprehensive inspection experience.

Value Delivered

Enhanced Asset Management

Our data collection provided Snowy Hydro with an up-to-date and precise visual record of critical infrastructure, improving asset lifecycle management and aiding predictive maintenance strategies.

Efficiency & Cost Savings

Traditional bridge inspections can be time-consuming and expensive, requiring road closures, scaffolding, or rope access. Our drone-based approach significantly reduced these logistical challenges while delivering faster results.

Increased Safety

By deploying drones, we minimised the risks associated with manual inspections in hazardous locations, such as bridges with limited access, falling rock hazards, and dense vegetation.

Technology & Methodology

• RTK GNSS & LiDAR: Used for highly accurate geospatial data capture, overcoming challenges posed by steep mountain terrain and temporary GNSS disruptions.
• Photogrammetry & 3D Modelling: Captured ultra-high-resolution imagery to create detailed digital twins of inspected bridges.
• SmartData Integration: Our proprietary software enabled real-time visualization and analysis, streamlining reporting for engineers.

Client Impact

By integrating drone inspections into their asset management framework, Snowy Hydro and Aurecon now have a scalable and efficient solution for ongoing infrastructure monitoring. The data collected will aid in proactive maintenance planning, reducing costly emergency repairs and ensuring the longevity of vital infrastructure.

Conclusion

This project demonstrated the power of drone technology in modern infrastructure management. By delivering high-quality data efficiently and safely, National Drones continues to set the benchmark for aerial asset inspections in Australia’s engineering and energy sectors.