Pipeline Pigging Terminology: Common Terms Explained
If you’re new to pipeline pigging—or even if you’ve been around it for a while—you’ve probably heard terms that aren’t always clearly defined.
At Enduro Pipeline Services, we believe understanding the language of pigging is just as important as selecting the right tools. Whether you're planning a cleaning run, preparing for inspection, or troubleshooting a line, knowing these terms helps you make better decisions.
Below is a breakdown of common pigging terminology used across the industry.
Core Pigging Terms
Pipeline Pig
A device inserted into a pipeline to perform functions such as cleaning, inspection, batching, or dewatering. Pigs travel through the line using product flow.
Pigging
The process of launching and receiving a pig inside a pipeline to perform a specific operation.
Pig Launcher
A pressure-rated vessel used to safely insert a pig into a pipeline.
Pig Receiver
A vessel designed to safely receive and remove a pig after it completes its run.
Cleaning & Maintenance Terms
Cleaning Pig
A pig designed to remove debris such as wax, scale, sand, or buildup from the pipeline wall.
Batching Pig
Used to separate different products within a pipeline or prevent mixing.
Debris Loading
The amount of material collected by a pig during a run. Excessive debris can impact pig performance and inspection accuracy.
Brush Pig
A cleaning pig equipped with brushes for aggressive scraping of pipeline walls.
Magnet Pig
A pig fitted with magnets to capture ferrous debris (metal particles) inside the pipeline.
Gauge Plate Pig
A pig equipped with a metal plate used to detect internal restrictions, dents, or obstructions.
Inspection & Integrity Terms
Inline Inspection (ILI)
The process of using instrumented tools to assess pipeline integrity from inside the pipe.
Caliper Tool
A geometry inspection tool used to detect dents, ovality, wrinkles, and other deformations.
MFL (Magnetic Flux Leakage)
A technology used in ILI tools to detect metal loss, corrosion, and anomalies.
Sensor Lift-Off
When debris or buildup prevents inspection sensors from maintaining contact with the pipe wall—reducing data quality.
Operational Terms
Pig Velocity
The speed at which a pig travels through the pipeline. Maintaining proper velocity is critical for both cleaning and inspection success.
Differential Pressure
The pressure difference across the pig that drives it forward through the pipeline.
Bypass
A feature that allows fluid to pass through the pig to help control speed and pressure.
Stuck Pig
A pig that becomes lodged in the pipeline due to debris, restrictions, or operational issues.
Tracking & Support Equipment
Pig Tracking
The process of monitoring a pig’s location as it moves through the pipeline.
Above Ground Marker (AGM)
A device used to detect pig passage from above ground.
Non-Intrusive Pig Tracking
A method of detecting pigs without modifying the pipeline or requiring hot work.
Why This Matters
Understanding pigging terminology isn’t just about definitions—it’s about making better decisions in the field.
The wrong interpretation of a term can lead to:
- Incorrect tool selection
- Poor cleaning results
- Reduced inspection accuracy
- Costly reruns
Not sure what you need—or what these terms mean for your specific job?
Don’t overthink it.
Talk to our team and we’ll help you get it right the first time.
800-752-1628
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pipeline Pigging Terminology
What is a pipeline pig?
A pipeline pig is a device inserted into a pipeline to perform tasks like cleaning, batching, dewatering, or inspection. It moves through the pipeline using the flow of product or fluid, making it a critical tool for maintaining pipeline performance and integrity.
What does pigging mean in pipeline operations?
Pigging is the process of launching, running, and receiving a pig inside a pipeline. It’s used to clean the line, separate products, verify internal conditions, or collect inspection data.
What is the difference between a cleaning pig and an inspection pig?
A cleaning pig is designed to remove debris such as wax, scale, sand, or liquids from the pipeline.
An inspection pig—often called an Inline Inspection (ILI) tool—is used to gather data about the pipe’s condition, including corrosion, dents, or changes in geometry.
What is a gauge plate pig used for?
A gauge plate pig is used to confirm the pipeline is free of internal restrictions. It helps identify dents, buckles, weld intrusions, or other obstructions that could damage cleaning pigs or inspection tools.