Pipeline pigging is explained in this article, including how it works, what it is, and how it benefits. The purpose and importance of pipeline pigging will be clarified at the end of this article.
Pigging pipelines allow pipelines to be maintained and ensured to perform at their best. In addition to improving pipeline efficiency, decreasing maintenance costs, and increasing productivity, it is a cost-effective alternative to traditional maintenance and cleaning methods.
What do you mean by Pipeline Pigging?
The process of Pipeline pigging generally involves the usage of a ‘pig’ device in order to perform pipeline maintenance, proper cleaning tasks, inspection and maintenance of the pipeline. Pigs are propelled through the pipeline by the flow of liquids or gases in the line that is propelling them.
As mentioned previously, pigs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be customized to meet the parameters of your particular pipeline. In terms of pipeline pigs, there are four main types: foam pigs, brush pigs, cup pigs, and intelligent pigs.
Types of Pipeline PiggingBrush Pigs
Pipelines containing corrosive materials or sedimentary materials are cleaned with brush pigs. A rubber or nylon bristle is used for these brushes, which have a cylindrical shape.
Any residue present in the pipeline will be scrubbed away by the bristles. As brush pigs can travel long distances with minimal resistance, they are an ideal cleaning tool for long pipelines.
Foam Pigs
For pipelines that contain liquid, foam pigs are the ideal solution. In most cases, they are made of lightweight foam material and have a conical shape. They can thus travel through the pipeline without encountering much resistance.
Additionally, foam pigs come with brushes attached to their tails, which help clean out pipeline walls of debris. It can be difficult to control foam pigs in longer pipelines, so they are best suited to short pipelines.
Cup Pigs
Pipeline debris can be separated from the liquid using cup pigs. Their heads are shaped like cups, while their tails are shaped like discs or cups.
During its movement through the pipeline, the pig collects any sediment present in the cups. Sand and dirt can be collected most efficiently with cup pigs since larger particles can't be collected.
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