Unit Laser Scan
Project Overview
Engineering Design Services (EDS) was engaged to perform a comprehensive facility scan of an operating refinery unit in South Texas to support future engineering and design activities. The objective of the project was to capture accurate, high-resolution spatial data of the existing unit while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.
The scope of work included one day of coordinated ground-based and drone-based laser scanning to document the full extent of the unit. Ground-based scanning was used to capture detailed geometry of piping, equipment, and structural elements at grade and elevated levels, while drone-based scanning provided coverage of hard-to-reach and elevated areas that are typically difficult to document safely and efficiently.
The combined scanning approach resulted in a complete, high-density point cloud of the unit, providing the project team with a reliable digital representation of existing conditions. This data set supports downstream engineering tasks such as layout verification, clash detection, design development, and constructability reviews.
By leveraging advanced laser scanning technology and experienced field execution, EDS delivered an accurate and efficient facility scan that reduced site exposure, improved data quality, and established a strong technical foundation for future refinery modifications and upgrades.
Key Achievements
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Delivered a high-density, accurate point cloud representing existing conditions to support future engineering and design efforts.
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Safely executed the facility scan in an operating refinery by leveraging ground-based and drone-based laser scanning to reduce site exposure.


