Pigging of GRE pipeline
Pigging of GRE pipeline
(OP)
Hi All,
Currently our project involves a 28" GRE pipeline. We would like to know if GRE pipeline can be used for intelligent pigging and also what shall be the minimum bend radius for GRE bends to allow passage of pig.
Currently our project involves a 28" GRE pipeline. We would like to know if GRE pipeline can be used for intelligent pigging and also what shall be the minimum bend radius for GRE bends to allow passage of pig.





RE: Pigging of GRE pipeline
RE: Pigging of GRE pipeline
There isn't a single pig in the world that will pig a GRE line and provide any information worth having.
"Intelligent pigging" is designed for steel pipelines to detect corrosion internally or externally. GRE doesn't corrode. Why would you even want to do an "intelligent" pigging???
Bends in GRE tend to be more like elbows.
The key issue is the forces involved. Send an intelligent pig train down a GRE line and you can probably throw it away afterwards.
GRE is great stuff for piping and maybe above ground pipe / pipelines, but bury it and you're just asking for trouble. It is simply fundamentally not good pipeline material.
I've looked at design, installation and repair of the stuff and now wouldn't touch it with a bargepole for buried cross country lines.
I thought I had heard it all, but intelligent pigging a GRE line is up there with the best....
Apologies for being quite negative, but this is my experience and honest opinion.
Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.
RE: Pigging of GRE pipeline
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA