High Velocity Pipeline Pigging

High Velocity

High velocity pipeline pigging is a powerful and efficient cleaning method used in the oil and gas industry. It involves using specialized equipment to clean pipelines at high flow rates, removing debris, wax buildup, and other contaminants that can hinder the efficiency of pipelines. This process is also referred to as high flow rate pipeline cleaning or high velocity pipeline cleaning.

Inline Services, based in Tomball, TX, is a leading provider of pipeline products and services. Our company offers high velocity pipeline pigging as one of its flagship services to help oil and gas companies maintain optimal pipeline performance.

What is High Velocity Pipeline Pigging?

High velocity pipeline pigging is the process of cleaning pipelines using specialized tools called pigs that are propelled through the pipe at high speeds. These pigs are designed to scrape away any build-up or debris on the inner walls of the pipeline, effectively cleaning and maintaining its integrity.

The high velocity method is preferred for pipelines with a large diameter and those that transport viscous fluids such as crude oil or natural gas liquids. This process is also suitable for long-distance pipelines that require frequent cleaning to maintain their flow efficiency.

How does High Velocity Pipeline Pigging work?

The high velocity pigging process involves inserting a specially designed pig into the pipeline through an opening, such as a valve or fitting. The pig is then propelled forward by the fluid flow within the pipeline, effectively scraping away any debris or buildup on its journey.

At Inline Services, we use different types of pigs depending on the specific needs of our clients. These include brush pigs, foam pigs, and solid cast pigs, each designed for different pipeline conditions and cleaning requirements.

Benefits of High Velocity Pipeline Pigging

High velocity pipeline pigging offers several benefits that make it a preferred method for pipeline maintenance.

  • Increased Efficiency: By removing debris and buildup in pipelines, high velocity pigging improves the overall flow rate and efficiency of the pipeline, reducing operating costs and increasing production.
  • Prevents Corrosion: Debris build-up in pipelines can lead to corrosion, which can significantly impact the integrity of the pipeline. High velocity pigging effectively removes these contaminants, preventing corrosive substances from forming.
  • Cost Savings: Regular high velocity pipeline pigging reduces the need for expensive maintenance or repairs, saving companies significant costs in the long run.

Applications of High Velocity Pipeline Pigging

High velocity pipeline pigging is a versatile method that can be used in various applications, including:

  • Crude Oil and Gas Pipelines: As mentioned earlier, high velocity pigging is suitable for pipelines transporting viscous fluids such as crude oil or natural gas liquids. Regular pigging helps maintain optimal flow rates and reduces the risk of blockages.
  • Refineries and Petrochemical Plants: Refineries and petrochemical plants rely on pipelines to transport various products, making them susceptible to build up or contamination. High velocity pipeline pigging is an effective way to keep these pipelines clean and functioning at their best.
  • Water Transmission Pipelines: High velocity pigging is also used in water transmission pipelines to remove mineral deposits and sediment buildup, ensuring a steady flow of clean water.

 

More About Inline's Speed Control Pigs

Read more about a recent natural gas line cleaning project using our new Speed Control Pigs.

Simple Pigging System with Drop-Out

This animation demonstrates an Inline Services VIPRS pig running through a line where a JB pig receiver unit is present. Before the pig is placed in the line the valve has been closed so that no product is present behind the VIPRS pig. As the pig moves through the line the inside of the pipe is cleaned and excess product is pushed through to the destination. Once the pig triggers the magnetic pig senor and reaches the JB receiver unit, the unit is removed with the pig inside. Once the pig is removed, the receiver is returned to the pipe.

Simple Pigging System Closure

This animation demonstrates a simple pigging system closure. Inline’s VIPRS pig is positioned in the launcher as the product is run through the pipeline. At the end of the product run, the VIPRS pig is launched to remove all product from the line. The pig will trigger the indicator to alert that the pig has reached the end of the line.

Bi-Directional Pigging

This animation demonstrates Bi Directional Pigging. Inline’s VIPRS pig positioned in the launcher as product is run through the pipeline. At the end of the product run, the VIPRS pig is launched to remove all product from the line. When the VIPRS pig reaches the JB receiver, the propelling media is turned-off. When this happens the VIPRS pig is resting at the jail bar in the JB receiver; propellant is used on the receiver side of the pig to return it to the launcher.

Automated CIP System

This animation demonstrates a fully automated VIPRS bi directional pigging process system with CIP. Inline’s VIPRS pig is first positioned in the pig launcher. The product is pumped from the storage tank to the destination. The VIPRS pig is then launched to push the remaining product to the destination and captured in the VIPRS wash chamber at the destination station. Next, the CIP solution is pumped through the line to wash the chamber and pig. Finally, the pig pushes the CIP solution out of the piping and leaving the pig clean and ready for the next product run.