Inline Services Launches New Speed Control Pig (SCP)

June 1, 2019 | 8:00 AM CDT

High velocity natural gas pipelines pose a unique challenge in terms of effective cleaning for corrosion mitigation purposes or pre ILI runs.   Studies show that the best cleaning occurs when the tool runs at approximately 8 mph ( 3.57 m/s) allowing brushes and discs to do their job, where at speeds over 10 mph (4.47 m/s) they can bypass the debris and liquids, proving ineffective.

To meet this challenge, Inline Services has designed and manufactured a new series of Speed Control Cleaning Pigs (SCP) ranging from 30” to 48”.  The SCPs onboard technology maintains optimal cleaning speeds of 6 to 10 mph within a gas flow velocity of up to 33 mph (14.75 m/s)  In addition, the SCPs IMU collects performance data that can be exported onsite.

Inline’s new SCP recently exceeded expectations during a run in 30” and 36” pipelines containing numerous 1.5D short radius bends.  While the normal gas flow velocity was maintained, the tool averaged an ideal control speed of 7 mph (3.1 m/s), allowing for both efficient cleaning and no interruption of gas delivery.  In addition, the pig played an integral part in the effective use of chemicals and inhibitors, determining quantities spread, recovery and liquids balance within the pipeline.

To read the full article and download a speed control data sheet, click here.