Design and Analysis and Cost Imperative of A Prototype Pig Launcher for Upstream Oil Sector
Abstract
This research is on design of and fabrication of a single barrel pig launcher. A 14 inches diameter pipe was used for the main launcher barrel and a 10 inches diameter pipe used for the minor barrel. These parts were joined by welding processes. Components such as signaler, vent, drainer, pressure gauge, eccentric reducer, etc, were welded alongside the pipe. The launcher was designed to withstand fluid pressure of 200bar and also accommodate a single pig during launching operation. Solid cast pig was employed and launcher designed to suit the upstream oil industries where it would find application for cleaning, inspection and monitoring of pipelines.
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Introduction
A pig launcher is a mechanical device used for inserting pigs into a pipeline and launching them without flow obstruction. They are integral part of a pipeline network system for periodic cleaning of pipelines conducting crude oil and natural gas. Pig launcher could be installed in facilities handling products such as lubricating oil, paints, chemical, toiletries, cosmetics and foodstuffs. Usually pig launchers are located at compressor stations and at terminal points where special arrangement of pipings and valves allow the running of pigs with little or no disruption of ongoing pipeline operation. During installation of pipeline network system, temporary pig launcher stations can be located at convenient intervals to enable clearing construction debris from the pipeline.
Generally pig launchers are used in cleaning operations, corrosion control, distribution of corrosion inhibitors and internal inspection of gas pipeline network system. Having been acquainted with the areas of application of pig launcher in pipeline network system, the research focus is to design a prototype pig launcher that could perform its intended function optimally with economic viability as critical object of concern.
Conclusion
The research culminated in the design of a suitable quick closure and smoother means of transition of pig through the pipeline. In the course of research, fabrication was carried out and the problem of setting the eccentric reducer to the main and minor barrel, then locating the vents and the drains was handled with excellent practical superiority. The design pressure is 200bar and the barrel successfully accommodated a single pipeline pig. The launcher met the requirement to permit more efficient operation compared with the previous designs.
Despite just being a prototype, it was able to highlight its effectiveness which will lead to further development of this launcher to a larger scale.