The Key To Oil Pipe Cleaning

Oil pipe cleaning is essential for pipelines that carry crude oil. These pipelines tend to become partially blocked due to the loss from flow resistance, which is an outcome of the buildup of accretions on the pipeline walls. Thus, pipelines getting blocked can degrade the total flow capacity of the pipeline.

Oil pipe cleaning is done differently for the small-bore pipelines and the big-bore pipelines. The small-bore pipelines can be treated ideally in the normal flow mode; here, no shutdown is required. However, the big-bore pipelines are preferably treated in segments of approximately 200 meters in length; these pipes can require a post-treatment mechanical cleanup.

The need for cleaning

If you want the production to be enhanced, look no further to just get the oil pipe cleaning done. Research bears witness to the fact that small irregularities within the pipe can create turbulence in the product flow. Turbulence is responsible for reducing the pipeline capacity, increasing the loss of friction and for unnecessarily loading the compressors and the pumps.

How to go about oil pipe cleaning

Oil pipe cleaning is done for the elimination of alien substances like rust, welding draft, gravel, sand and other substances. Next, you must also pay attention to getting rid of the moisture, after getting the hydraulic pressure test done. Pig cleaning is the suitable manner of cleaning oil pipes. This form of cleaning method involves the use of nitrogen, air, special cleansing devices and liquid chemicals.

The polly pig method involves the use of elastic, high density polyurethane and is more economical than any other method. It is economical not only for the newly constructed pipes, but also for the maintenance of the old pipes. A polly pig can penetrate the pipes in question and is conveniently applicable to plastic pipes, steel pipes, cast iron pipes, concrete pipes, coated pipe inside and others.

The other methods for oil pipe cleaning are Pin Wheel Pig, Inhibitor Spray Pig, Pressure Bypass Pig, Cup Pig, Magnetic Cleaning Pig, Brush Pig, Circumferential Brush Pig, Bi-Directional Pig and the Dual Diameter Pig.

It is advisable to engage in regular oil pipe cleaning for the restoration of a good capacity. This forms the foundation of a long term care and maintenance program.