We are driving the digitalisation of sanitation with robotics in the Avilés Estuary

Hovering Solutions' autonomous drone inspects 5km of main sewer with 3D accuracy and without personnel in a risk zone.

At Facsa, we are committed to applied innovation to transform the management of critical hydraulic infrastructure, especially in complex environments such as large collectors. At the Maqua Wastewater Treatment Plant (Avilés), we participated in a pioneering project driven by CADASA, incorporating advanced robotics for the inspection of the main collector in the Ría de Avilés sanitation system. Thanks to this solution, an autonomous drone travels inside the collector to accurately detect leaks, infiltrations, and structural defects over nearly five kilometres, optimising preventive maintenance and reducing operational risks in key infrastructure for Avilés, Gozón, Corvera, and Castrillón.

This milestone has been achieved thanks to collaboration with Hovering Solutions, a startup accelerated in our Corporate Venturing programme, where a proof of concept was developed that has culminated in the real-world implementation of this technology. The drone is designed to operate in confined spaces without the need for GPS, radio signal, or external lighting, generating highly accurate 3D models and assessments in accordance with UNE-EN 13508-2 standards, which allows for more reliable diagnostics without exposing technical personnel. To ensure the success of the operation, we designed exhaustive planning, with prior conditioning, simulations, and safety protocols, working under IRATA certification with qualified level 3 personnel.

Furthermore, our intervention included a specific operational strategy to minimise flow in the collectors and facilitate drone flight without compromising system operation or causing spills, demonstrating our ability to act with expertise in sensitive infrastructure.