SLB and ANYbotics to advance oil & gas robotics

SLB and ANYbotics, a leader in autonomous mobile robotics, are set to provide end-to-end robotic solutions for oil and gas operators worldwide through a new partnership to advance autonomous robotic operations in the oil and gas sector

ANYbotics has developed the world's first hazardous zone-rated quadruped robot, designed for safe operation in challenging industrial environments, enabling workers to be removed from hazardous areas. provides actionable insights anywhere and anytime, patrolling complex and harsh environments as an autonomous data collection and analysis vehicle.

The integration of robotics innovation with SLB's OptiSite facility and equipment performance solutions will enable oil and gas companies to optimise operations and maintenance activities for new developments as well as existing producing assets. Deploying autonomous robotic missions will improve data accuracy and predictive analytics, increase equipment and operational uptime, reduce operational safety risks, and enrich digital twins through real-time sensorial data and spatial updates. The predictive analytics delivered will enhance operational efficiency, safety and emissions reduction.

Complex environments

"The energy industry's digital transformation is accelerating the need for advanced robotics solutions that can operate safely and efficiently in complex environments," said Patrick Bauer, director of Midstream Production Systems at SLB. "Our collaboration with ANYbotics will enable the acceleration of a comprehensive and scalable solution for the industry, allowing operators to move from the testing and proof-of-concept stages of robotics to full-scale global deployments in their operations."

While the partnership activities will initially focus on robotic deployments in the Americas and Offshore Atlantic regions, there are plans to expand globally. The collaboration will leverage SLB's extensive domain expertise and global footprint to provide comprehensive end-to-end robotic solutions to customers worldwide.

The oil and gas industry has emerged as a significant adopter of robotics to improve safety and efficiency of operations. According to a recent GlobalData report, robots equipped with advanced technologies are yielding increasingly positive results, bringing a continued transformation in the operations of oil and gas companies.

Robots can, for example, reach inaccessible areas, carry out tasks beyond human capabilities, and operate continuously without becoming fatigued or needing breaks. Hence, they are increasingly being used for conducting inspections in difficult or hazardous environments, thereby minimising human exposure to such sites.

GlobalData also notes the increase in collaboration between oil and gas companies and technology vendors, enabling the diversification of robotic use cases with the integration of AI, IoT, cloud, and edge computing. These developments are anticipated to drive future growth in robotics within the oil and gas sector.