There are a wide variety of sectors, applications, and industries that require liquid processing. This is when the pigging system is requested. The pipe pigging system helps to reclaim liquids from tubing and pipelines. The primary objective is to boost yields and capacity, minimize waste, and improve the overall efficiency of the production and manufacturing phases.

A pipeline-pigging system is required across numerous industries. It is usually required by companies that deal with food and beverages, paint manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. To simplify, a pigging system is explicitly required for fast-hardening materials like yogurt, cheese, chocolate, toothpaste, etc. The system was initially designed to clean oil pipes; however, to this day, the procedure has evolved and is used for various product recovery applications.

What Are The Dangers Of Pigging?

Pigging is undoubtedly one of the best and most efficient methods today. However, improper pigging can lead to complications. So, what are the dangers of pigging?

• Not suitable for certain pipelines
• Can get stuck in the line due to the accumulation of debris
• Launching facilities are sometimes required
• Unable to navigate through sharp bends and various diameters

To prevent such occurrences, it is important to be aware of the working process

How does the Pipe Pigging System work?

The pipe pigging system employs a solid projectile to remove liquid from the pipeline. The pig is shaped like a sphere or cylinder so that the device can move easily throughout the system. The shape also plays a crucial role in efficient cleaning. The pig moves through the network of pipelines and keeps cleaning the system. It can also detect build-ups if there are any.

The Working Procedure of Pigging Tools

• Inserting: A launch point must be set up, and the pig must be inserted into the pipeline. Depending on the system design, this can be done manually or automatically.
• Moving: The pig gets pushed inside the pipeline along with the product flow. Sometimes, an external propelling force is required.
• Cleaning/Inspecting: While moving inside the pipeline, the pig can perform various operations, such as removing debris, cleaning the interior walls of the tube, and inspecting irregularities or damage.
• Recovering: Ultimately, when the pigging tool reaches the end of the pipeline or the defined retrieval point, the device is removed from the line.

The design of the pigging tools depends on the application. Some are equipped with scrapers, brushes, and other cleaning tools. Some also have in-built cameras and sensors.

The Pigging Design

The pigging design works like a squeegee, cleaning the pipeline’s interior. The cleaning action relies on forced nitrogen, air, or water to push the device through the pipeline. The projectile design is based on:

• Size of the system line
• Viscosity of the product

The Amazing Benefits of Mechanical Pigging

“Pig” is simply an abbreviation for Pipeline Inspection Gauge or Pipeline Intervention Gadget. On the contrary, some say that the name “pig” comes from traditional cleaning devices equipped with leather seals. The seals were squealed in the shape of a pig while the devices moved across the pipeline.

Equip Up offers industry-grade and approved mechanical pigging. We provide branded pig launchers and receivers suitable for all types of operations. Our vast experience and proven track record make us your best source for high-performance liquid recovery and cleaning solutions. Please feel free to contact us today for all your pigging needs.