Drone inspection combined with NDT: Fēnix at Toverland

Innovation, safety and collaboration came together during a periodic inspection of Fēnix, the iconic roller coaster at Toverland. For this inspection, MME Group combined drone inspection with Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). This integrated approach enabled the steel structure to be inspected safely and efficiently, with minimal impact on operations.

The inspection was part of the attraction’s periodic maintenance programme. The work was carried out before opening hours, ensuring that visitors were not affected and that the attraction could open without unnecessary downtime. Preventive maintenance not only contributes to the reliability of the attraction, but above all to a safe and worry-free experience for every visitor.

The project was coordinated from our office in Heerlen. The drone flights were carried out in collaboration with our drone partner Haviq, while MME Group was responsible for the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), analysis and reporting. Inspector Marvin van den Bergen carried out the inspection work and played an important role in the project.

Curious to see what a drone inspection at height looks like? Watch the video.

 

Safe, efficient and without unnecessary downtime

Inspections of complex steel structures often present challenges. Traditional inspection methods regularly require scaffolding, aerial work platforms or prolonged downtime of installations. By using a drone as an extension of the inspector, difficult-to-reach areas of a structure can be efficiently captured without the immediate need for extensive equipment or access systems on site.

During the inspection, high-quality drone footage was combined with Visual Testing (VT), a widely used Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) method. This allowed the inspector to determine where additional inspections were required and provided valuable inspection data for further analysis.

This integrated approach offers several key benefits:

  • Faster insight into the condition of steel structures.
  • Reduced risk to inspectors by limiting work at height.
  • More efficient preparation of follow-up inspections.
  • Shorter inspection times.
  • Less downtime and minimal impact on daily operations.
  • Cost savings during maintenance and repairs.
  • One integrated inspection approach, seamlessly combining drone inspection and NDT.

Safety as the Highest Priority

For attractions such as Fēnix, periodic inspections are essential. By inspecting structures proactively, maintenance activities can be planned in good time, helping to ensure the safety of visitors.

As inspector Marvin van den Bergen puts it:

"Quote from Marvin in video"


Collaboration

For organisations where safety, availability and reliability are key priorities, these innovative inspection methods offer significant value. By carrying out inspections in this way, the impact on operations can be minimised while maintaining the quality of the inspection.

Thanks to the collaboration between Toverland, Haviq and MME Group, drone footage and specialist inspection expertise could be effectively combined, with the inspection carried out according to the highest quality standards.

Every day, we contribute to the safety, reliability and extended service life of complex steel structures.

A Longer Life

More than 60 years of inspection expertise

The inspection at Toverland is part of MME Group’s broad inspection expertise. MME Group is a Dutch family-owned company with more than 60 years of experience in ensuring the quality, safety and integrity of complex structures worldwide. As a specialist in material testing, inspection and corrosion prevention, we combine disciplines including Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), drone inspection, Rope Access and laboratory testing. This enables us to provide complete inspection solutions from a single point of contact.

MME Group:

  • More than 60 years of experience in material testing, inspection and corrosion prevention.
  • ISO 9001, ISO 17020, ISO 17025, VCA and IRATA certified.
  • Our own certified and experienced inspectors.
  • Available on site and in operational production environments.
  • Comprehensive reporting and full traceability.
  • Tailored solutions for complex inspection challenges.
  • Multiple specialist disciplines under one roof.

 

We provide complete inspection solutions from a single point of contact and contribute every day to A Longer Life.

 

Contact

Curious what drone inspection combined with NDT could mean for your organisation? Contact MME Group to discover the possibilities for your next inspection.

Contact us

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Non-Destructive Testing
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Visual Inspection (VT)
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Destructive Metallurgical Laboratory
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Rope Access (IRATA)
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