ExRobotics is launching the first UL-Certified ExR-2.5 autonomous inspection robot in North America
This certification is another industry first for ExRobotics, with the ExR-2.5 as the only UL-certified inspection robot for potentially explosive industrial environments. This offers operators a recognised pathway to deploy autonomous robotic inspections in hazardous locations.
Oil and gas operators face rising pressure from ageing infrastructure, acute workforce shortages, and the growing cost of unplanned downtime. The UL-certified ExR-2.5 was designed to address a critical industry need. UL 6260 establishes a framework for the safety certification of robotic inspection technology operating in potentially explosive atmospheres, while also ensuring the robot does not become an ignition source.
The ExR-2.5 features Ex-certified robotics with local deployment expertise and customer support to help accelerate the adoption of advanced inspection technology. Smart robotic missions provide better data, boost productivity, and keep operations on track.
The platform is trusted by operators worldwide, including Shell, Repsol, and BP. It has completed thousands of robotic inspection missions across upstream, downstream, LNG, and chemical facilities.
The ExR-2.5 can conduct safety inspection and collect real-time operational data using integrated technologies:
- Acoustic imaging sensors detect high-frequency sound signatures associated with gas leaks and mechanical faults.
- High-resolution cameras allow inspection of assets, corrosion, valves, gauges and structures.
- Thermal imaging identifies overheating equipment and temperature anomalies.
- Environmental and safety sensors continuously monitor site conditions.
Autonomous navigation and obstacle-avoidance systems enable the robot to operate safely in complex live industrial facilities. Inspection missions can be performed autonomously or under remote supervision. Once a mission is complete, the robot returns automatically to its docking station, ready for redeployment.
The energy industry is projected to face a shortage of up to 40,000 competent workers by 2025/2026, while 62% of Gen Z view oil and gas careers as unappealing.
Unplanned downtime also costs the world’s largest industrial companies an estimated 11% of total revenue, with 3.5 days of downtime capable of generating losses exceeding $5 million for a mid-sized oil and gas facility.
Asset integrity monitoring is fundamental to maintaining a facility’s licence to operate. Traditional inspection regimes increasingly expose personnel to risk, while struggling to keep pace with complex and ageing assets. Autonomous robotic missions offer a different model, making inspections continuous, repeatable, and data-driven while enabling operators to maintain consistent inspection frequency.
Mark Mildon, CEO, ExRobotics, said, “The inspection challenges facing oil and gas operators are intensifying, skilled labour is harder to find, assets are ageing, and the cost of failure is rising fast. Our sole focus is to build rugged, reliable Ex-certified inspection robots to address these issues.
“This certification marks another industry first for ExRobotics. The ExR-2.5 is the only UL-certified, autonomous inspection robot for hazardous locations in North America. Operators now have a recognised and trusted pathway to deploy autonomous inspections at their facilities.”
ExRobotics will conduct live demonstrations of the UL Certified ExR-2.5 at Booth 816 throughout the Energy Drone & Robotics Summit from June 22-24 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott in Houston, Texas.
