Pipeline Pigging Process: How Pipeline Pigging Works
Pipeline pigging is one of the most common maintenance practices used by pipeline operators to clean pipelines, remove debris, and prepare pipelines for inline inspection.
What Is Pipeline Pigging?
Pipeline pigging is a process used by pipeline operators to clean, inspect, and maintain pipelines by sending specialized devices known as pigs through the pipeline. These tools travel through the pipeline using product flow or compressed gas to remove debris, separate products, or collect inspection data.
Pigging operations are a critical part of pipeline integrity management programs and are commonly used to prepare pipelines for inline inspection (ILI) tools.
Why Pipeline Pigging Is Important
Regular pigging helps operators maintain pipeline efficiency and safety.
Pigging programs help:
• Remove debris and buildup
• Prevent corrosion and blockages
• Improve flow efficiency
• Prepare pipelines for inline inspection
• Maintain regulatory compliance
Without proper cleaning and preparation, debris inside the pipeline can interfere with inspection tools and reduce the accuracy of inspection results.
Types of Pipeline Pigs Used in Pigging Operations
Pipeline pigging operations use different types of pigs depending on the objective of the run. Common pig types include cleaning pigs, batching pigs, gauging pigs, and inline inspection tools. Cleaning pigs are often used before inspection runs to remove debris and ensure accurate inspection results. Pipeline Cleaning Pig Comparison Guide
The Pipeline Pigging Process
Pipeline Pigging Steps
1. Pig Launcher Preparation
The pipeline pig is inserted into a pig launcher, which is a pressure-rated chamber attached to the pipeline.
2. Pig Launch
The launcher is sealed and pressurized. Pipeline flow pushes the pig into the pipeline.
Pig Launchers in Pipeline Pigging:
A pipeline pig launcher is a pressure-rated chamber attached to the pipeline that allows operators to safely insert pigs into the line before a pigging run. The launcher is isolated from the pipeline, opened to load the pig, and then resealed and pressurized so pipeline flow can push the pig into the system.
Pig launchers typically include:
• isolation valves
• pressure gauges
• quick-opening closures
• safety locking mechanisms
Once the pig is loaded and the launcher is sealed, the pig is introduced into the pipeline and begins traveling through the system.
3. Pig Travel Through the Pipeline
As the pig travels through the line, it removes debris, scale, wax, or liquids depending on the pig type.
Different pigs are designed for different functions:
• Cleaning pigs
• Batching pigs
• Gauging pigs
• Inspection pigs
4. Pig Tracking
Operators track pig movement using pig tracking systems, transmitters, or acoustic detection tools.
5. Pig Receiver
At the end of the pipeline segment, the pig arrives at a pig receiver where it is safely removed from the pipeline.
Types of Pipeline Pigs
Different pig designs are used depending on pipeline conditions and cleaning requirements. From standard cleaning pigs, batching pigs, gauge plate pigs, to specialty cleaning pigs our team can build a pig for your specific project objectives.
Common pig types include:
STS Cleaning Pigs
- Flexible pigs used for general pipeline cleaning and debris removal.
Steel-Bodied Cleaning Pigs
- More aggressive pigs designed for heavy debris or scale removal.
Dual Diameter Pigs
- Designed for pipelines with changing diameters or multi-diameter segments.
Urethane Cleaning Pigs
- Durable pigs used for sealing and cleaning in a wide range of applications.
Foam Pigs
- Lightweight pigs used for light cleaning and product displacement.
Pipeline Pigging and Inline Inspection
One of the most important uses of pigging is preparing pipelines for inline inspection tools (ILI).
Proper pipeline cleaning ensures inspection sensors maintain proper contact with the pipe wall, improving data quality and reducing the risk of missed anomalies.
Cleaning Pigs Used in Pipeline Pigging
Enduro Pipeline Services manufactures a wide range of pipeline cleaning pigs designed to support pigging operations and pipeline inspection preparation.
Explore common pig types:
•
STS Cleaning Pigs
•
Advantage Cleaning Pigs
•
Dual Diameter Cleaning Pigs
•
Urethane Cleaning Pigs
You can also compare these pig types in our Cleaning Pig Comparison Guide.