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Knowledge Kit

Progressive Pigging of 16” x 89kmTimi Gas Pipeline

Case Studies

Royal Poly Products | May 2024 | Malaysia

Objectives

Establish a clean, obstruction-free gas export pipeline.

Maintain integrity of foam pigs under high-pressure, high-velocity conditions.

Minimise debris and condensate in the system during the final pigging runs.

Approach: Progressive Pigging Strategy

The campaign was executed in three phases, each with tailored pigging tools engineered by Royal:

1. Medium Density Foam Pigs with Royal Pig Catcher

  • Medium-Density Pigs designed to sweep early debris and test flow conditions
  • Launch Pressure: 113 barg
  • Velocity Range: 5 m/s (launch) → 20 m/s (receipt)
  • Average Velocity: 7 m/s
  • Catcher Outcome: Pigs received in pristine condition, maintaining shape and integrity

2. High Density Foam Pigs (No Catcher)

  • Deployed to continue debris clearing and simulate denser flow
  • Same Pressure & Velocity Profile
  • Despite the absence of a pig catcher, the pigs performed without foam degradation

3. Bi-Directional By-Pass Sealing Pigs

  • Final run with Bi-Directional By-Pass Pigs to ensure no significant condensate or debris remained
  • Launch Pressure: 149.2 barg
  • Velocity Range: 0.6 m/s → 1 m/s
  • Bypass Open: 10%
  • Total Debris Collected: < 100 grams — indicating exceptional internal cleanliness

Outcome & Highlights

  • Zero Pig Damage across all runs – even under high pressure and velocity
  • Wet Gas Compatibility: Pigs maintained structure and sealing capability in saturated gas
  • Polyurethane (PU) Longevity: All pigs were 12 months old, yet showed no significant drop in abrasion or tear strength

Key Takeaways

  • Foam Integrity Under Pressure: Royal’s formulations prove robust in challenging gas environments
  • Pig Catcher Integration: Improved recovery of MD pigs without compromising condition
  • Data-Driven Design: Pigging parameters defined and validated by performance

Client Feedback

“Royal’s progressive pigging strategy and robust foam design enabled a safe and effective gas pipeline start-up with full assurance at every phase.”