Are there any notable case studies or projects demonstrating the successful application of drones in power washing?

There is one on our website, "Man vs Drone" cleaning an elevated water tower https://www.apellix.com/power-wash-case-study

Are there specific regulations or certifications required for businesses using drones for power washing on a commercial scale?

1. FAA Section 107 pilot certification is required for any commercial drone pilot
2. FAA 137 operating certificate is required for "dispensing economic poisons" (pesticides or herbicides)

How do you foresee the commercial drone market for power washing evolving over the next 5-10 years?

1. What is now a market of sole proprietors operating as service providers will evolve as asset owners and large corporate services companies become comfortable with the technology.
2. The actual drone systems will evolve with greater automation and specialization for unique operating environments (e.g., wind turbines and power transmission line insulator cleaning)

What specialized training is necessary for crew members to safely and efficiently operate power washing drones?

1. Basic piloting skills which can be learned from piloting typical recreational or photography-based drones
2. A thorough knowledge of cleaning and cleaning chemicals
3. Mission planning skills to mitigate project and environmental risks / safety mentality
4. Specialized knowledge relating to the different flight chrematistics of tethered drones and drones that fly close to structures.

How does the use of drones compare to traditional power washing methods regarding speed and efficiency?

1. A large community water tower may take two days of labor after staging and setting up (and taking down) a 150' boom lift to clean. A drone can do it in a ½ day.
2. There is often a 10x or larger efficiency gain. For Example, the side of an 8 story building can be done in 21 minutes with a drone.

How can adopting power-washing drones enhance revenue generation?

1. In the near term, service providers are competing against old technology and practices, resulting in exceptional margins and more satisfied customers. In time this advantage may be reduced as more providers use drones.
2. In the long term, service providers will increase revenue and market reach through addressing the more profitable industrial sector which is currently poorly served.
3. There are jobs that are difficult or impossible to complete with lifts, scaffolding or rope work that a cleaning drone can do. These instances can generate significant revenues and profits.