Pigs are devices which are inserted into and travel throughout the length of a pipeline, propelled by water, compressed air, nitrogen or product (gas or crude). Pigs are generally listed under two (2) categories: “Utility Pigs” and “Smart Pigs”.

Utility Pigs perform functions such as filling, cleaning, and dewatering pipelines.

Smart Pigs provide information on the internal condition of the pipeline as well as the direct location of any problems inside the pipeline.

Whether you’re performing major maintenance or remedial treatments on your pipeline, using nitrogen as an inert propellant for moving “pigs” through your pipeline makes good sense. Nitrogen is the gas of choice to displace oxygen, retard oxidation, break the “fire triangle” and prevent explosions.