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Methodology:
We utilize an advanced, computerized system capable of hearing the noise made by the pressure differential of the flow moving around the pig, and then correlating the location of the origin of the noise. In order to do this, the pipeline may have to be exposed to the bare steel wall, at certain intervals (typically determined by size and pressure), in order for us to magnetically attach our sensors directly to the pipe. These Field Sensor Units communicate via radio to the computer which analyzes the acoustic data, and pinpoints the location of the pig.
During a recent project for Marathon-Ashland Pipeline and C-Pig in Woodhaven, MI, we were able to use our 60" Probe Bar to make a safe contact with the pipe, magnetically attach our sensors to the probe bar and made a successful locate with about a 3,000 ft. distance between the two points. Although the system's calculation of the location was 19 Ft. away from the pig's exact location, we were much better than their original estimated location - over 4 miles away. Plus, we didn't have to wait 72 hours for a one-call locate to complete the search. MAPL did contact the MI One Call Center before excavating the location, and x-rays confirmed it.
On a previous locate with Marathon-Ashland in IL, we were able to make direct contact with the pipe (vs. the probe bars), and were only 6" off from the exact location of the pig.
Our summation is this:
We can utilize the probe bar approach to eliminate excessive excavation, thus increasing the amount of pipeline we can survey in a given timeframe.
But, we can expect a 1-2% error at a 3,000 ft. distance due to the vibration of the probe.
Placement of the sensors directly on the pipe increases the accuracy.
The location of the pig can be confirmed non-intrusively with the additional use of ground microphone and magnetic locating technology. And,
Ours is proving to be a superior pig locating system vs. other methods (if there are others.)
Don't wait. Stop paying "Pig Rental".
Contact us, TODAY!
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