Even in an industry where every operation is meticulously planned, unexpected situations can arise. Such was the case with a recent intervention by our team in Lithuania. An unusual problem occurred on a DN400 high-pressure gas pipeline—a smart pig became lodged inside the pipeline.
What is a Smart Pig?
A smart pig is a sophisticated inspection and cleaning device used in pipeline maintenance and monitoring. Equipped with various sensors and technologies, it detects corrosion, deformations, cracks, or material loss on the pipe walls. Its primary purpose is to ensure the pipeline infrastructure remains safe and operational.
In this instance, the smart pig became blocked and lodged within the pipeline, preventing its further movement and necessitating expert intervention.
Professional Solution Step by Step
To safely extract the device, the pipeline was first double-blocked. The work was conducted at a reduced operating pressure of 15 bar. Subsequently, a DN150 bypass was fabricated using a reliable hose bypass from HOMOLA a.s.
After securing the pipeline and creating the bypass, our team performed a precise cut of the section where the pig was lodged. The blocked device was then safely extracted, and the pipeline was returned to operational status.
Combining Technology and Experience
This intervention further confirmed that even technically complex situations can be effectively addressed when top-tier equipment and an experienced team of professionals are combined. Extracting a smart pig from a pipeline is not a routine operation, but thanks to meticulous preparation, professional approach, and proven technologies, we successfully managed this challenge.
FASTRA – Specialist in Pipeline System Services.
Always prepared, whether it's planned maintenance or unexpected challenges.