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AMPL - Automatic Multiple Pig Launching System
AMPL is the patent pending Automatic Multiple Pig Launching System from PE that allows a series of pigs to be launched into a pipeline at operator controlled intervals while minimising the number of times a pig trap door has to be opened to access a pipeline for pigging.
By doing this AMPL provides significant cost savings for pigging operations as well as providing added Health, Safety and Environmental benefits.
Where is AMPL used?
Typically the AMPL automatic multiple pig launching system is ideal for use on:
- Unmanned platforms
- Isolated launch sites
- Subsea pigging sites
- High frequency pigged pipelines
- Existing pig launchers
What are the benefits of using AMPL?
- Minimum access is required to launch a series of pigs
- Less manpower is required for pigging operations
- AMPL significantly reduces the cost of pigging
- AMPL is suitable for most pipeline pigging requirements
- AMPL pigs can be launched remotely
- AMPL greatly reduces the potential for accidents for personnel operating the pig trap
- No costly pig trap modifications are normally required to use AMPL
- No external power is required to launch the AMPL pigs
- AMPL provide health, safety and environmental benefits
Operation of AMPL
AMPL pigs are loaded into a cassette which is inserted into the pig launcher. The number of AMPL pigs that can be inserted is determined by the length of the barrel on the launcher. The closure door is shut. This is where the true benefits of the AMPL system are clear as the closure door will not need to be opened again until all the pigs in the cassette have been sent through the pipeline.
The pigs in the cassette are interlocked. As with normal pigging operations, product is diverted through the launcher which bypasses the pigs until it reaches the lead pig. This pig is set to prevent product bypass and is not interlocked to the other pigs. This therefore allows the first pig to be launched into the pipeline.
With a pre-determined pressure drop in the pig launcher a trigger on the next pig is armed which prevents product bypassing this pig which is now ready to launch. This process allows the full series of pigs to be launched without needing to access the pipeline for each launch.
Industry Support
PE has developed the AMPL multiple pig launching system after extensive research, development and testing. This process has been supported by several leading Oil & Gas Companies who recognised the substantial benefits and cost savings the AMPL system offers.
Using the AMPL System improves the efficiency of pigging operations as well as being safer for personnel and the environment.
Pipeline Engineering, Gatherley Road, Catterick Bridge, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 7JQ
- Tel: +44 (0) 1748 813 000
- Fax: +44 (0) 1748 813 501