In the world of industry, efficiency and technology go hand in hand. Drones have revolutionized multiple sectors, from construction to energy, enabling precise inspections, surveying and real-time monitoring. But what is the ideal drone for industrial projects? In this guide, we help you choose the best drone for your needs, with a special focus on DJI models, the market leader in industrial drones, and the regulatory requirements applicable to each type of activity.
From GRUPO UAS we will indicate the key aspects when choosing the drone. But if you need us to find the right drone for your activity and project, we can help you.
Aeronautical Regulations and Applicable Legislation
The use of drones in industrial environments is subject to national and international regulations to ensure operational and air safety. Below are some of the most relevant regulatory frameworks:
- Regulation (EU) 2019/947: Defines the categories of UAS operations (open, specific, and certified) and safety requirements within the European Union.
- Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945: Establishes manufacturing and marketing standards for drones in Europe, including CE marking and technical specifications.
- RD 517/2024 (Spain): Regulates operations with unmanned aircraft within Spanish airspace and establishes the legal framework for the civil use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
- Regulation (EU) 2021/664 on U-space: Provides the framework for integrating drones into airspace alongside manned aviation.
- AESA Requirements (Spanish Aviation Safety Agency): Requires specific authorizations for BVLOS operations (beyond visual line of sight), flights in urban environments, and critical infrastructure.
Key Factors for Choosing an Industrial Drone
Selecting the right drone depends on several factors. The main aspects to consider are:
- Autonomy and Battery Life: For long inspections or continuous monitoring, it is crucial to have drones with long-lasting batteries or quick swap capability. Models like the DJI Matrice 350 RTK offer up to 55 minutes of flight time, ideal for extended missions approved within specific operational frameworks.
- Payload Capacity: Some projects require additional sensors such as LiDAR, thermal cameras, or multispectral cameras. The DJI Matrice 350 RTK, for example, supports multiple payloads simultaneously, making it suitable for various studies and services under current regulations.
- Resistance to Harsh Conditions: In sectors such as industrial or civil works, drones must operate in extreme conditions of temperature, wind, or dust. The DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise or Matrice 4T/E are compact yet robust options with advanced sensors and precise stabilization, meeting occupational safety standards.
- Data Precision and Quality: Camera resolution, flight stability, and navigation sensors determine the quality of the collected data. The DJI Zenmuse series, with models like the H20T, provides thermal imaging and powerful zoom for critical applications in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
- Software and Integration Capability: An efficient industrial drone must have software compatible with GIS, CAD, or other data analysis platforms. DJI offers DJI Terra, ideal for mission planning and 3D map processing in compliance with European spatial data standards.
Key Industrial Applications and Legal Requirements
1. Infrastructure Inspection and Maintenance
Drones enable the evaluation of bridges, power lines, wind farms, and more, reducing human risks and maintenance costs. Models like the DJI Matrice 350 RTK and its compatibility with the Zenmuse P1 sensor offer unparalleled precision in visual inspections and photogrammetry. These operations may require AESA authorization and a risk mitigation plan under the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment)methodology.
2. Monitoring in Construction and Civil Works
Topographic surveys with drones accelerate planning processes and construction site management, detecting errors early. DJI Phantom 4 RTK is a highly efficient option for accurate data capture in the construction industry. For flights over urban environments, it is mandatory to comply with legislation related to the flight environment and aircraft category.
3. Industrial Security and Surveillance
Equipped with thermal cameras and motion sensors, as well as autonomous flight capabilities, drones enhance security in industrial plants and restricted areas. DJI Matrice 30T or DJI DOCK 2, with integrated thermal cameras and hybrid zoom, are ideal for real-time surveillance operations. These operations may require coordination with security forces and compliance with data protection regulations.
4. Precision Agriculture
Industrial drones used in agriculture optimize irrigation, detect pests, and improve soil productivity with multispectral imaging. DJI Agras T40 or T50 are designed for spraying and seed dispersion with advanced spraying technology. Their use requires certifications for the safe application of agrochemicals.
5. Topography and Photogrammetry
3D mapping and geospatial analysis allow for efficient terrain evaluation and resource extraction. DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise and its RTK module, as well as the new DJI Matrice 4E, provide detailed aerial images for topographic studies in mines and excavations. BVLOS operations in mining require specific authorization and risk analysis using the SORA methodology.
In Summary
Choosing the right drone will make a difference in the efficiency and profitability of your industrial project. Consider the specific needs of your sector and the applicable regulations before making a decision.
Invest in technology and take your operation to the next level with DJI industrial drones, fully compliant with current regulations!