Description

The EMT Bypass Pig, also known as the Pressure Bypass Pig, is a custom-designed pig that can be configured to function either as a Cup Pig—equipped with pig cups—or as a Bi-Directional (Bi-Di) Pig—fitted with seal discs and guide discs.

This specialized pig features one or more internally mounted bypass valves that are designed to open at a predetermined pressure. The EMT Bypass Pig is commonly used in pipelines that have not been previously pigged or are heavily contaminated. This makes it ideal for operations involving waxy crude oil, black powder in gas lines, or cleaning water pipelines. Additionally, a gauge plate can be installed to enable the pig to carry out pipeline proving and gauging tasks.

The By-pass Pig functions like a standard pipeline cleaning pig until it encounters a significant buildup of debris—such as wax, sludge, or black powder—or a restriction within the pipeline. In either case, the pig may come to a halt, causing the differential pressure across it to rise. Once this pressure reaches a set threshold, the internal bypass valves open, allowing product to flow through the pig body. This creates a forward-facing jet and produces a 360-degree bypass jetting action ahead of the stationary pig. It helps to dislodge and flush away the obstruction. As the differential pressure decreases, the valves automatically close, allowing the pig to resume movement through the pipeline. If the pig has encountered an immovable restriction, product will continue to bypass through the pig, ensuring continuous flow and preventing a complete pipeline blockage.

Prevent Pipeline Blockages with the EMT By-pass Pig

Traditional pipeline scrapers or cleaning pigs can sometimes become lodged, leading to a stuck pig and, in the worst-case scenario, a completely blocked pipeline — which means halted flow and potential operational downtime. This can make locating and removing a stuck pig a challenging and time-consuming task.

The EMT Bypass Pig offers a smarter solution. Designed to minimize the risk of pipeline blockages, it continues to allow product flow even if the pig becomes temporarily immobilized. This prevents complete shutdowns and buys valuable time for corrective actions. Additionally, the Bypass Pig can assist in locating and retrieving lost or stuck pigs, providing an extra layer of operational assurance.

Locating and Recovering a Lost or Stuck Pig

By equipping the Bypass Pig with a pig transmitter or pig pinger, operators can track the pig. They can precisely locate the pig within the pipeline. The Bypass Pig, unlike conventional tools, has integrated bypass valves. These valves keep product flowing through the pig if it becomes stuck. This means flow continues even if the pig is temporarily immobile. This essential feature greatly reduces the risk of a total blockage. It allows operations to continue until recovery measures are carried out.

EMT Pressure Bypass Pigs are available for pipeline diameters ranging from 4 inches to 56 inches. For larger diameters or specialized applications, please contact us to discuss your specific pigging requirements.