RETRIEVAL OF STUCK PIG IN 8 GAS PIPELINE

By Yasir Anjum
The objectives of "pigging" a pipeline include not only running pigs for maintaining continuous operation and optimizing efficiency, but to do the work without sticking the pig. Getting the pig stuck rarely happens in a pipeline which is pigged routinely, but can happen when pigging frequency of a pipeline is not adequate, or because of maintenance issues or if for any reason pipeline could not be pigged for a long time. Well design pigging programs are required in these situations. It is noteworthy here that cleaning pig run of a pipeline which is not pigged for quiet long period, needs to be progressive rather than aggressive. Jumping intermediate pigging runs of well-defined cleaning program may result in excess debris being carried out with pig & results in plug formation in front of pig, and often a stuck pig situation is encountered. If a pig becomes stuck, it is important to identify the cause. Restoring the flow in the line is the first priority. Usually one of two conditions exists when a pig is stuck: fluid bypasses around the pig, or there is a complete blockage of the flow. Before performing any technique for pig retrieval, a detailed analysis of plug formation and the hazards involved in it must be identified. A stuck pig or formation of a hydrate plug can generate fast transient movements of large solid objects in natural gas pipelines, and may cause inadequate control of pig velocity during receiving operations. Creating a pressure jump across a stuck pig can dislodge it but can also create a sudden displacement; propelling the pig at high velocities and potentially damaging pipe bends or elbows. Generally following practices are followed as indicated in order: Increase the flow rate and line pressure, but do not exceed MAOP of the pipeline. Reduce pressure from the line by venting towards the launcher as well as receiver. Reducing pressure allows the pig to relax to its original shape. Allow pressure to dissipate. After that again re-pressure the line in an attempt to drive the pig through the restriction and venting from the receiver side, repeating five to ten times. In worst case we need to remove the blockage ahead of the PIG for which we first need to find its exact physical location on ground. Several methods such as using Magnetic compass, PIDS, Radiography, Boroscopic inspection, hammering etc. are employed for confirming the location. We carry out Hot Tapping at suitable positions to vent out the debris through suitable venting arrangement. After that again re-pressure the line in an attempt to drive the pig through the restriction. In case above method fails, we go for Cutting out the pipeline to retrieve the PIG from the pipeline. This presentation also includes a case study on recovery of stuck pig in CIL 8 Gas Pipeline in southern section of pipeline.