COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of pipeline pigging refers to the practice of using devices known as "pigs" to perform various maintenance, cleaning, and inspection operations without stopping the flow of the product in the pipeline. This course provides a comprehensive look at the technical and operational requirements for a successful pigging program, covering everything from the physics of pig movement to the logistics of field operations. By understanding the mechanical and hydraulic forces at play, participants can optimize pigging runs to ensure maximum pipeline efficiency and minimize the risk of tool damage or loss.

The scope of this training involves the detailed study of utility pigs (cleaning, batching, and gauging) and the operational procedures required for their deployment. Participants will explore the design of pig launchers and receivers, the selection of pig materials (foam, urethane, or metal-mandrel), and the use of pig tracking and locating equipment. The course places a heavy emphasis on safety and the prevention of operational incidents, such as pressure surges or "stuck" pigs, which can have significant economic and safety impacts on a pipeline network.

The coverage of the program is organized into ten modules that follow the practical workflow of a pigging campaign. Key topics include the development of a pigging plan, the chemistry of pipeline cleaning agents, and the specific challenges of pigging multi-phase lines or offshore assets. The course also addresses the regulatory and environmental aspects of pigging, including the handling and disposal of "pigging trash" and the management of noise and vibration during operations. The program concludes with a workshop on troubleshooting common pigging problems and developing emergency recovery procedures.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Identify the different types of utility pigs and their specific functions.
• Design a pigging sequence for commissioning and dewatering a new pipeline.
• Select pigging materials and configurations based on pipeline characteristics.
• Operate pig launchers and receivers safely and efficiently.
• Calculate the required bypass and drive pressures for different pig types.
• Utilize pig tracking and locating technologies (acoustic and electromagnetic).
• Develop a pipeline cleaning strategy to remove wax, scale, and liquids.
• Manage the environmental aspects of pigging waste and byproduct disposal.
• Troubleshoot operational issues such as stuck or damaged pigs.
• Assess the risks associated with pigging "difficult" or aged pipelines.
• Implement a regular maintenance pigging program to maintain throughput.
• Formulate an emergency response plan for pigging-related incidents.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Pipeline Operations Supervisors, Maintenance Technicians, Field Engineers, Commissioning Specialists, and Asset Integrity Personnel.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.