Pigs are tools used to enable pre-commissioning, commissioning, change of service, decontamination or decommissioning of pipelines. Pigs are pushed from one point to another using air, nitrogen, freshwater, seawater, gas, oil, etc. dosed with chemicals to protect the pipeline integrity.
These mechanical tools have come a long way in the past couple of decades to become smarter and changing the way we used to carry out conventional pigging operations.
Many theories exist about the use of the word Pig for this specialist mechanical tool. Alternatively, Pigs are also known as scrappers. One of the most interesting theory came from one of the oldest pipeline industry veteran. He said ‘Pigs squeak when we launch and receiver them’. His words weren’t entirely laughable. Wikipedia’s Etymology about Pigging states
‘Some early cleaning pigs were made from straw bales wrapped in barbed wire while others used leather. Both made a squealing noise while traveling through the pipe, sounding to some like a pig squealing, which gave pigs their name. PIG is claimed as an acronym from the initial letters of the term Pipeline Inspection Gauge.’
Based upon the application, Utility Pigs come in all different types and sizes. They could be metal-bodied, Solid cast, foam, spheres.
Metal Bodies, Solid cast pigs and Foam pigs are widely used in pipeline pre-commissioning. The term Bi-Di refers to the capability of these pigs to travel in both directions.
Foam pigs, being made of mainly foam with a Polymer coating, are usually bound to get damaged in longer pipeline runs or deep water applications (high-pressure pigging runs). Not to forget, they are difficult to insert due to their construction density and over-sizing. When Foam pigs are received, they are also likely to come out with a damaged front end, making it difficult to recover using manual means.
On the other hand, Foam pigs are very useful for coated pipelines or onshore drying operations.
Bi-Di Gauging pigs check the internal ovality and excess weld penetration. The technology allows for the identification of defect location without the need for specialist inspection tools.
To know more about IK smart gauge plates and calliper pigs, get in touch at info@royalmechgroup.com.
As an exclusive Channel Partner for IK in WA/NT, Royal Oil and Gas promotes the use of IK products within Australia. Our collaborations assists to finalize the most appropriate solution for your pre-commissioning needs. From high friction pigs to Batch Pigs fitted with burst discs, you name it, and we will provide it to you.
IK range of bi-directional pigs are available in sizes from 2″ up to 60″ with a variety of body constructions possible, allowing the tools to pass 1.5D radius bends and negotiate full bore branches. As standard, the pigs come with two support/guide discs which assist with loading and centralisation in the pipeline and four sealing discs which drive, seal and scrape. Extra discs can be added if the scraper is to be used over long distances (>150km) or the pipeline conditions are particularly arduous.
- All pigs can be supplied with polyurethane bumper noses on request.
- All pigs can be fitted with Online Electronics tracking equipment.
- Can be provided with a stainless steel body and Isotope Housing.
- All pipeline mediums can be accommodated.
Further references to IK and Online electronics Pig tracking products can be found at links below:
https://ik-uk.com/products-services/products/pipeline-pigs/
http://www.online-electronics.com/our-products
Feel free to get in touch for your requirements in WA/NT directly at info@royalmechgroup.com