Robotic Tank Cleaning

Business Challenge

Rio Tinto Yarwun are currently seeking a solution utilising robotics or remote technology to clean large storage tanks; ideally removing the human element of this work and reducing the risks associated with tank cleaning.

Solutions Needed

The initial solution is for the precipitation tanks at our Yarwun alumina refinery. Cleaning may use chemicals (caustic liquor), high pressure water and/or mechanical equipment requiring confined space entry procedures. The solution we are seeking should:

• reduce the need for people to enter tanks (confined spaces)
• reduce the time to clean tanks once offline, and
• explore the potential to clean tanks while they remain operating (online).

Find more information on the Rio Tinto Pioneer Portal.

Submit an idea here.