PROCESS PIGGING

2 Process – Pigging In this course you will learn: The functions of pigging Terminology The different types of pigs In-line inspection by intelligent pigs Pigging representation and data Pigging auxiliaries Dimensioning Operating parameters The pigging operation Troubleshooting

3 Process – Pigging The functions of pigging Pigging operations are not only used for cleaning pipelines The operation will vary according to the type of pig that is used Pigging is carried out to ensure that the pipelines are still in their initial condition (cleanness, size, surface condition, corrosion…) The following are usually found in a hydrocarbon pipeline :  Sand  Wax and/or asphaltenes  Water, which causes corrosion  Mineral scale

4 Process – Pigging The functions of pigging To perform these pigging operations we use a pig Pigging must ensure a certain number of functions:  During construction: ensure that the pipeline bore is of the correct size (detection of restrictions, crushing, etc.)  Before commissioning, create a water slug for the pipeline pressure test  During operation : –removal of liquid slugs and condensates –cleaning the pipeline walls –separation of products –pipeline inspection  at the end of the pipeline's operating life: the pipelines will be cleaned if the effluents change and pigs will be used for blocking the pipelines with cement

5 Process – Pigging The functions of pigging Conventional pigs  They perform a maintenance function: –pipeline cleaning –batching (effluent separation) –dewatering

6 Process – Pigging The functions of pigging Intelligent pigs  Provide data on a pipeline's physical integrity: –Corrosion –Crushing –…

7 Process – Pigging Terminology PIG :  Generic term for all swabs, scrapers, spheres and foam devices which are sent through pipelines CONVENTIONAL PIG :  A pig with physical functions such as: cleaning, drying, batching, etc. INTELLIGENT PIG :  It is an instrumented pig. Provides data on the integrity of a pipeline: internal and external corrosion, ovality, etc

8 Process – Pigging Terminology GEL PIG :  Viscous liquid pig, generally polymer-based, used to remove debris or improve sealing. In some cases these gel pigs are biodegradable FOAM PIG :  This is a pig made of foam consisting of a cylindrical polyurethane foam body of variable density and whose surface coating varies according to the model MANDREL PIG :  It is built around a customisable central mandrel. Cups, brushes, etc. can be attached to it (MECHANICAL PIG)

9 Process – Pigging Terminology SOLID PIG :  For diameters of 14" or less, these pigs are cast in one piece. They are disposable BIDIRECTIONNAL PIG :  Symmetrical pig which can work in both directions MULTIDIAMETER PIG :  Pig which can operate in a pipeline whose diameter is not constant CLEANING :  All cleaning operations

10 Process – Pigging Terminology BATCHING PIG :  A piston designed to separate two different effluents flowing through the same pipeline SWABBING :  Swabbing of a liquid GAUGING :  Calibration operation performed either during pipeline commissioning or operation, e.g. before launching an intelligent pig

11 Process – Pigging Terminology PIG BY PASS  It is an accidental or voluntary effluent leak through a pig. This leak is from the front to rear of the pig, or vice versa SPHERE PIG :  Solid or inflatable sphere

12 Process – Pigging Conclusion PIG  Is used for process pipeline cleaning and minimize corrosion due to foreign material inside diameter pipeline. OPERATION  Flow from upstream to downstream as according to differential pressure inside pipeline area.