01What is a drone volumetric survey?

A drone captures hundreds of images of a stockpile or excavation, which are processed into a 3D model. From that model we calculate precise volumes — material above a base surface, cut-and-fill quantities, or change between two dates — without anyone climbing the pile.

02How MKA Mesh Systems delivers

• Safe, fast capture — no manual measurement on dangerous slopes.
• Ground control — for verified, audit-ready accuracy.
• Processing — accurate base-surface definition and volume computation.
• Reporting — clear per-stockpile volumes and tonnage (with material density).

03Deliverables

• Per-stockpile volume reports (m³) and tonnage
• Cut-and-fill / earthwork quantities
• Period-to-period change (progress monitoring)
• Annotated maps, 3D models and orthomosaics
• Inventory reconciliation reports

04Applications & industries

Mining and quarrying (ore, aggregate, coal stockpiles), construction earthworks and progress claims, landfill and waste management, ports and bulk material yards, and regular inventory audits.

05Why it matters

Manual stockpile measurement is slow, dangerous and imprecise. Drone volumetrics deliver auditable accuracy in a fraction of the time — improving inventory accuracy, supporting financial reporting and reducing disputes on earthwork quantities.

06Frequently asked questions

How accurate are drone volume measurements? Typically within 1–2% of true volume with proper control — often better than manual methods.

How often can you measure? As often as needed — monthly inventory, or per claim period for construction progress.

Can you convert volume to tonnage? Yes, using your material density figures.