Pipeline Pig Tracking
Pipeline pig tracking is the process of monitoring the exact location of a pig as it travels through a pipeline. In pigging operations, knowing where the pig is at all times is critical for both safety and efficiency. Whether the goal is pipeline cleaning, proving a line for the first time, or preparing for an in-line inspection (ILI) tool run, pig tracking ensures the process goes smoothly from launch to retrieval.
At American Pipeline Solutions (APS), pig tracking services are offered alongside many of our pipeline maintenance and inspection solutions. With our advanced tracking equipment and highly trained technicians, operators can run pigs with confidence, reduce downtime, and avoid costly complications.
Why Pig Tracking is Essential
Pipelines can contain unknown debris or obstructions left from construction or introduced over time. Without accurate pig tracking, a pig could slow down, stop, or even become stuck in the line. This leads to serious risks:
Costly excavation and recovery efforts
Delays or shutdowns in operations
Safety hazards for crews and facilities
Interrupted cleaning or inspection results
By using pipeline pig tracking services, APS helps prevent these risks, keeping pigs moving and operators fully informed throughout every stage of the pigging process.
Pipeline pigs are used for a number of reasons, but regardless of the reason, knowing where they are in the pipeline is imperative. Pipeline pig tracking is a service provided by APS in tandem with a number of our other service offerings.
Pipelines have unknown debris/obstructions that were either left after construction or were introduced at some point-in-time; pipeline pig tracking is especially essential when cleaning or proving a line for the first time.
How APS Performs Pig Tracking?
APS uses a proven method of combining transmitters inside the pig with advanced receivers to pinpoint its location. Our system allows for both handheld monitoring and remote monitoring through AGM (Above-Ground Marker) units.
We rely on state-of-the-art pig tracking equipment from industry leaders such as Comtel, Envirocal, and Spy. This technology gives our field technicians the ability to track pigs with precision, even across long-distance pipelines and in challenging field environments.
From the moment a pig is launched, APS technicians monitor its movement in real time until it arrives at the receiving site.
Applications of APS Pig Tracking Services
Our pig tracking pipeline services are critical in a wide range of applications, including:
First-time pipeline cleaning or proving — ensuring new lines are clear and safe for operation.
Running caliper pigs and ILI tools — tracking pigs used for internal inspection and condition assessment.
Oil and gas pipelines — maintaining safe, efficient transmission lines.
Water and industrial pipelines — supporting flow assurance and cleaning needs.
Wherever precision and reliability are required, APS provides dependable pig tracking services tailored to each project.
Tracking is also essential for the preparation of receiving sites when running mandril pigs and ILI tools.
Pipeline pig tracking is possible through the emplacement of a locating device (transmitter) with a dedicated frequency inside the pig and the utilization of receivers both handheld and remote (AGMs). APS’s tracking equipment is state of the art, representing the latest technology from Comtel/Envirocal and Spy.
Technology and Expertise You Can Trust
At APS, pig tracking is not just about equipment—it’s about the skilled technicians behind the service. All APS Field Technicians receive continuous training in pig tracking methods across oil, gas, water, and industrial systems.
Our approach combines cutting-edge technology with on-the-ground expertise, ensuring that every pig run is completed safely, efficiently, and without disruption to operations.
All of our Field Technicians are constantly trained to conduct pipeline pig tracking in all sorts of industries not just oil/gas. From the time a pig is launched, our Technicians monitor the location over the course of its transit through the pipeline.
Partner With APS for Pipeline Pig Tracking
When you need reliable pig tracking services, trust APS to deliver accurate monitoring and professional oversight every step of the way. By combining advanced pig tracking equipment with proven field expertise, we help pipeline operators reduce risks, save time, and maintain pipeline integrity.
Contact APS today to learn more about our pipeline pig tracking services or to discuss your upcoming pigging project.
