05 Mar 03/05/2019
A pipeline pig is used by industries, primarily Oil & Gas, to maintain pipes. They are cylindrical cleaning devices used to clean, inspect, and maintain pipelines. They are critical in keeping oil and gas pipelines efficiently flowing by helping remove rust, debris, and contaminants.
pipes are cleaned by pushing through them a close fitting cylinder called a pig. Pigging is necessary for pipeline vitality, but the solid waxes, condensates, and gases that result from pigging operations can be highly hazardous to humans.
What does pig stand for in pipeline? The term "pig" is derived from the pig-like shape of these devices because of their squealing sound as they move through the pipeline. It is the most widely used term for any device inserted into a pipeline that travels freely, driven by the product flow. It is, in effect, a free-moving piston. Other words are sometimes used, such as rabbit or mole. Although the origins of the term are debated, the “pigging" of a pipeline is a vital midstream process.
Like most tools, numerous types differ based on the work being performed. Here are some of the different pigs, devices, and tools used during the pigging process:
Smart pigs, which contain sensors and RF modules, inspect and capture essential data on the health and vitality of the pipes. They provide measurements on metal loss, thickness, and numerous other data points companies require to facilitate the flow of oil and gas.
Repair and maintenance workers - face hazards daily, with the additional risk of exposure to industrial lubricants, cleaning solvents, and the ever-present possibility of mechanical injury while repairing or replacing heavy components. At the 2018 OSHA Oil & Gas Safety and Health Conference, a midstream safety manager told us, “The midstream industry relies heavily on large machinery. Mechanics are always needed to repair broken down machines.”
The challenge, he further explained, was that mechanics prefer using their hands, with little to no hand restrictions, as they work in confined spaces. We highlight impact gloves more below.
Once the pipeline is constructed and clear, it’s time to pump some oil and gas. This is the meat-and-potatoes of the midstream industry. In 2017, the US produced 14.33 million barrels of oil, which requires a significant workforce. There are roughly 20,000 petroleum pump system operators in the oil and gas industry.
Some of the hazards Kinder Morgan highlights, where midstream workers require protective gloves, glasses, and garments, include:
Made in the USA, MCR Safety's butyl gloves offer wearers protection from some of the harshest chemicals found at oil and gas facilities.
Flame-resistant FR Clothing is required across all areas of the oil and gas industry to protect workers from the potential risk of fires and explosions. Midstream oil and gas operations typically involve transporting, storing, and processing oil and natural gas. Each stage poses significant fire and explosion hazards.
FR clothing is designed to protect workers from the effects of fire and provide a barrier against heat and flames. This type of clothing is made from materials that are inherently flame-resistant or treated with flame-resistant chemicals to reduce the risk of ignition and the spread of flames. Below are some of our top-selling categories.
At only 5.5 ounces, our Summit Breeze®️ FR Work Shirt is one of the industry’s lightest weight F.R. rip-stop shirts.
At only 5.5 ounces, our Summit Breeze®️ FR Work Shirt is one of the industry’s lightest weight F.R. rip-stop shirts.
Spending all day on a job site can be tough on you and your safety gear. MCR Safety's lightweight F.R. coveralls weigh only 5.5 ounces and are triple-vented, so you'll stay cool and comfortable for the entire work shift.
Our lineup of FR hi-vis garments, which includes rainwear, coveralls, and safety vests, are designed to keep you visibly protected and dry.
Many workers need help finding a great-fitting FR shirt. Enter into the picture MCR Safety's new F.R. T-Shirts. The LST 6.5 oz. The lightweight shirt features a raglan sleeve design, which fits comfortably and allows for ease of movement.
The PD2 jeans, made with 98% cotton and 2% spandex, are stretchy and offer more flexibility at work!
How to pig a pipeline?
Is norm exposure a hazard with pipeline pigging procedures?
Why run pipeline in distillate?
What kind of pipeline pig has a navigation system?
How many oil pipelines are in the us?
How often do oil pipelines leak?
Where are us gas oil pipelines being built?
For those needing a handbook covering all aspects of pigging, from the design, selection, operation, and maintenance, we encourage you to check out The Pipeline Pigging Handbook. You'll find a pipeline inspection pig diagram, pig selection guidance, and much more.
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For over 45 years, MCR Safety has proven to be a world leader in gloves, glasses, and garments. Whether it's handling parts with nylon gloves, assembling products with polyester PU gloves, or working at a construction site, we are there, providing solutions to workplace hazards. It's all part of our commitment to protect people.
No matter your industry, we have the personal protective equipment you need.
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Each year, more than 2.5 million eye injuries occur. Protect yourself by finding the right eye protection for the job.