If your operation involves pipelines - whether for oil, gas, water, slurry, or even food products - you may have heard of pigging. But what exactly is pipeline pigging, and why does it matter?
At its core, pigging is a smart, preventative maintenance process that helps keep pipelines clean, efficient, and safe - often without interrupting the flow of product. In this article, we break down what pigging is, how it works, and why it’s worth considering as part of your regular maintenance strategy.
What Is a Pipeline Pig?
A pipeline pig is a tool that travels through a pipeline to perform specific tasks - usually cleaning, inspecting, separating, or drying. Despite the unusual name, pigs are essential in many industries, including oil and gas, mining, water treatment, food processing, and more.
Pigs are inserted into the pipeline and propelled by product flow or compressed air. As they move through the line, they complete their designated task and are collected at the receiving end.
Common Types of Pipeline Pigs
Different pig types are suited to different tasks. Here are the most common:
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Cleaning Pigs - Remove scale, debris, and internal build-up
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Drying/Dewatering Pigs - Absorb moisture from inside the pipeline
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Batching/Separation Pigs - Keep different products separated during transport
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Inspection Pigs (Smart Pigs) - Equipped with sensors or cameras to detect issues like corrosion or cracks
Pigging Materials & Configurations
Pigs can be made from a range of materials and customised to suit specific pipelines:
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Foam Pigs - Flexible and ideal for general cleaning and drying
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Brush Pigs - Include bristles to scrub deposits
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Abrasive Pigs - Remove rust or hard scale with aggressive outer coatings
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Coated Pigs - Feature polyurethane layers for extra durability
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Cavity Pigs - Include a central cut-out to carry chemical treatments, trackers, or gauges
Why Pigging Matters
Pigging isn’t just a technical detail - it delivers real operational value:
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Improves flow efficiency by removing restrictions inside the line
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Extends pipeline life by preventing internal corrosion or abrasion
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Minimises downtime because pigging is done while the pipeline stays in use
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Enhances safety by identifying hidden issues before they become major problems
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Protects the environment by reducing the risk of leaks and contamination
How PSSS Can Help
At Piping Specialty Supply Service (PSSS), we supply a wide range of pipeline pigs and pigging accessories - along with the advice to match.
Whether you need a basic foam pig, a custom cavity pig, or help choosing the right tool for your specific line, our team is here to support you.
Need Help Choosing the Right Pig?
We work with operators across mining, oil and gas, water, and industrial sectors to provide tailored pigging solutions.