How is pipeline pigging works? What the Heck is pipe pigging? How does pigging help the environment?
In pipeline transportation, pigging is the practice of using devices known as pigs or scrapers to perform various maintenance operations. This is done without stopping the flow of the product in the pipeline.
Precautions to be taken during pigging operations Wear standard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). All personnel should minimize their exposure to the open launcher barrel. All involved in the pigging operation are to be advised when a pig is about to be launched and when the pig has been received. Never attempt to open the. The control room operator, in addition to being advised of pig launching and receiving, must be advised when a launcher or receiver is about to be purged and leak tested.
The Pig is propelled through piping , by water, product, or other gas or liquid and wipes the pipe walls to displace solids or liquids left in the pipe. A pigging operation is dangerous, as opening a pig trap closure while there is pressure in the barrel can shoot the pig out of the launcher at high speeds. Attempting to pass a pig through a partially open outlet valve, or prematurely opening the pig trap in the presence of high levels of toxic hydrogen sulfide, can have fatal consequences.