Valves for Pipeline Pigging

Pigging is the cleaning or inspection of a pipeline by means of a pig passed through it. The pig launcher and receiver ball valve allows the pig to be launched into and received from the line in a single body; it is used on platforms with no space for a separate pigging station, on congested manifolds and on lines within built-up areas. Below you can find our valves for pipeline pigging and the main features of each type.

In a conventional pigging station, the valve, the launcher and the bypass are separate components. Valves for pipeline pigging combine the valve, the launcher and the bypass in a single body. The result is a simpler arrangement that is easier to build, operate and maintain.

The area required for the pigging facility becomes smaller. The structure is simple, so the site construction time is shorter. Fewer valves and controls need to be operated, which reduces the training and maintenance workload. The safety devices – pressure gauge, drain and locked closure – are built into the body.

The pig launcher and receiver ball valve can be used on any line that is cleaned or inspected with a pig. It is especially suited to offshore platforms with no space for a pigging station, to congested manifolds and to lines within built-up areas. On an offshore platform deck space is the most expensive space, which makes valves for pipeline pigging a practical solution there. Valves in the marine environment are protected with a C5M paint system at least 350 microns thick.

Our pig launcher and receiver ball valves are offered from 2" to 24" in Class 150, 300, 600, 900, 1500 and 2500, with Batusan Special dimensions. They are among the valves used in oil and gas production, where high pressure classes, material suited to low temperature and NACE-compliant material for sour gas may be required. Devlon and PEEK seats are preferred in high pressure classes.

A pigging line also uses other valves. Our API 6D trunnion mounted ball valves are offered from ½" to 24" in ANSI Class 150 – 2500; they are manufactured to API 6D and ASME B16.34 and tested to API 6D, API 598, API 6FA and ISO 10497. Their stems have an anti-blowout design: the stem has a wide bottom flange, so even if the stem retainers and seals are removed, pressure cannot push the stem out, and the stem packing can be replaced while the valve is under pressure.

Our engineering team helps you choose valves for pipeline pigging that suit your line. Send us the pipe size, pressure class, medium and the space available at the site, and we will recommend the suitable pig valve arrangement.