Swiss startup FireDrone has secured €161,000 (CHF 150,000) from Venture Kick to advance the development of heat-resistant drones tailored for extreme environments.
FireDrone’s technology aims to improve safety in emergency response and industrial inspections by deploying drones that protect people, infrastructure, and the environment globally.
These drones are specifically engineered to operate where traditional drones fail, such as burning buildings and industrial furnaces, which pose dangers like toxic smoke, structural instability, and extreme heat.
The company, a spin-off from Empa, designs autonomous drones capable of withstanding temperatures close to 200°C. Their platform incorporates thermal insulation and cooling systems to maintain functionality.
FireDrone develops "heat-resistant autonomous drones designed to withstand temperatures of around 200°C and provide real-time hazard detection in environments where standard systems are ineffective."
The startup’s initial focus includes industries such as cement, steel, aluminium, waste-to-energy, fertiliser, and glass production.
By providing real-time hazard information, FireDrone’s drones support safer operations, reduce downtime, and improve decision-making under challenging conditions.
Summary: FireDrone is pioneering heat-resistant drones for hazardous environments, enhancing real-time safety and operational efficiency in industries and emergency response situations.