Is your piping system clean enough?

Pipelines thought to be “clean enough” rarely are, especially when it comes to preparing for an in-line inspection (ILI).

The delicate sensors on ILI tools require proper contact with the pipe walls to record accurate and high-quality information about corrosion, dents, metal loss, build-up amongst other anomalies. When contaminants, scale or debris get in the way, the sensors’ ability to do their job is compromised and often results in a failed ILI tool run with significant cost consequences. Additional runs, lost production, increased downtime, repair efforts or tool recovery all are considerable costs added to the ILI budget and schedule. 

To help prevent this sensor lift off and increase the odds of a successful ILI, operators should begin with a pre-cleaning protocol of the piping system, typically propgressive piping. This protocol is a method of running increasingly aggressive cleaning pigs in a set order until the operator’s cleanliness specifications are met.

Having the cleanest pipe possible is a first step to ILI success.. Determining the best pre-ILI cleaning approach isn’t a matter of guesswork or starting over with a clean slate. It’s best handled by trained and knowledgeable people like the one at Professional Piping Services Inc. Contact them today to discuss all your piping questions and needs.