Innovation

Innovation is what sets Metrocorp apart, has done for decades. It’s been the driving force behind our success and continues to help us solve our clients’ most challenging asset maintenance problems – safely and fast.  

The environments we work in present difficulties including poor air quality, fire danger, crushing and trapping hazards, high noise and submerged features.  

We have a history of developing new techniques focused on improving safety, productivity, and cost efficiencies in these demanding environments. Some are included here. 

Drone-based hazardous and confined space access, mapping and inspection

We have invested in world-leading technology and built specialised skills in unmanned drone inspection that not only revolutionises access, it provides incredibly detailed 3D digital mapping data and video in real time for superior condition analysis, providing better baselines for future monitoring.

The results are astonishing: up to a 90% reduction in internal inspection times and elimination of all safety concerns.

Faster, safer tunnel surface preparation techniques

Having remediated many kms of tunnels, we’ve implemented numerous firsts including the automated pontoon-based ultra-high-pressure surface preparation system that removes personnel from the high-risk activity.

Another is our Rock Wheel Rotary Preparation Scarifier​ which is fitted to the pontoon excavator arm and manually manipulated to rapidly remove deteriorated concrete surfaces and significantly improve surface preparation production.

Constant communication ensures a safe work site

To allow for personnel to enter & work within a confined space it is critical to have a constant, reliable, easy-to-use communication system. ​

Given the challenges of tunnel and confined space transmission, we have built the backbone of our long-distance tunnel communications network on WiFi technology and tested and refined a range of hardware around it. ​

Our communication systems and innovations include:

• Basic verbal communications via waterproof, shock-resistant handsets. ​
• Upgrades to verbal communications and addition of visual communication with live feed cameras, tested effective over 6km+ tunnel distances.
• Upgrades to antennas for distance / strength of signal and moisture / gas proof enclosures. ​

Safe access to deep shafts

Over the past decade we have invested in developing innovative systems to allow safe, efficient access to shafts up to 60m deep. ​

Our innovations have reduced access times from 12 minutes / person to 5 minutes for 3 people, with consequent productivity gains and reductions in asset downtimes.