Pigging 4” - 60”

Keeping a pipeline clean is essential for safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation. Over time, every line faces challenges such as debris accumulation, wax deposits, corrosion, and scale. These issues, if ignored, can reduce flow, increase operating pressures, and eventually lead to costly downtime.

Pipeline pigging services provide a reliable and proven solution. At American Pipeline Solutions (APS), we offer pigging for pipelines ranging from 4 to 60 inches in diameter, helping operators restore performance, remove obstructions, and prevent recurring maintenance problems.

Why Pipeline Cleanliness Matters

No matter what type of product a pipeline carries—whether oil, gas, water, or industrial fluids—residues gradually build along the interior walls. Wax and paraffin are common in oil lines, while scale and tuberculation often appear in water systems. Older pipelines may experience rust or corrosion deposits, and multi-use lines can collect silt or sediment. Even biological growth can become a concern in untreated water pipelines.

These accumulations restrict the effective diameter of the pipe. As flow capacity decreases, pumps or compressors must work harder, operating pressures rise, and energy costs increase. Over time, the uneven flow and turbulence created by deposits accelerate internal wear. Regular pigging not only restores efficiency but also helps extend the service life of the system.

American Pipeline Solutions’ Pigging Process

APS has developed a structured pigging approach backed by more than 30 years of field experience. Each project begins with careful preparation. Our team brings all required equipment to the site, including pigs, custom-built launchers and receivers, pumps, hoses, transmitters, and monitoring devices.

After setup, the pig is prepared for deployment. A transmitter is placed inside the pig so it can be tracked as it moves through the pipeline. Above-ground monitors are installed along the route, ensuring that the pig’s progress is carefully followed.

Once ready, the pig is inserted into the launcher and driven into the line using water pressure from the pump. Throughout the run, technicians record both the pig’s location and the pressure inside the pipeline. This data provides valuable insight into system performance and is shared with the client after completion.

At the retrieval point, the pig is collected and the line is evaluated. If deposits remain, APS will conduct a second pass to ensure the pipeline is thoroughly cleaned.

What Pipeline Issues Can Pigging Address?

Pipeline pigging is one of the most versatile maintenance solutions available. Our services address a range of operational challenges, including:

  • Low flow rates caused by narrowing due to debris

  • Reduced flow capacity, restored to original specifications

  • High pressure drops, minimized by clearing restrictions

  • Blockages and obstructions, fully removed for reliable operation

  • Corrosion by-products such as rust, scale, or tuberculation

  • Routine maintenance, ensuring compliance and long-term reliability

In many cases, pigging not only restores performance but also provides valuable inspection data that helps operators plan future maintenance.

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Pipeline Size and Material Considerations

While the material of a pipeline—whether steel, concrete, ductile iron, or PVC—can influence the pigging process, size typically has the greatest impact. APS has extensive experience working on pipelines from 4 inches up to 60 inches in diameter.

The density and type of pig are chosen based on the conditions of the line. A light-density pig offers flexibility for smaller or more delicate systems, while a medium-density pig balances strength with adaptability. For heavy cleaning jobs, a high-density pig delivers a more aggressive action capable of breaking through stubborn deposits. With decades of expertise, APS selects the most effective pigging solution for each unique project.

The Benefits of Pigging Services

Choosing APS for your pigging needs provides:

  • Improved efficiency – Restores optimal flow rates and reduces pumping costs

  • Extended pipeline life – Removes corrosive deposits that can damage infrastructure

  • Reduced downtime – Prevents costly blockages and emergency repairs

  • Detailed performance data – Monitored pressure and pig tracking for transparency

  • Customized solutions – Tailored pig selection and process design for your specific system

Whether your goal is routine maintenance or solving urgent pipeline pigging issues, APS has the expertise and equipment to deliver results.

Why Work with American Pipeline Solutions

APS is more than a pigging contractor—we are a trusted partner with decades of experience. Our team designs and builds much of our own pigging equipment, allowing us to customize solutions to meet specific client needs. From setup to monitoring, data collection, and verification, we manage the entire process with professionalism and precision.

Get Started with Pipeline Pigging

If your pipeline is experiencing issues such as low flow, rising pressure, or blockages, American Pipeline Solutions can help. Our pigging services provide a safe, efficient, and cost-effective way to restore your system and keep it performing at its best.

Contact APS today to discuss your pipeline pigging needs and learn how we can keep your infrastructure clean, efficient, and reliable.

Are you looking for a fitting pigging solution for your pipeline?

Contact the team at American Pipeline Solutions and learn about our pipeline pigging services today.