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FAQs
Click on the questions below to see their corresponding answers.
Why choose Precision Pigging?
Precision Pigging has the most accurate geometry/deformation tool available on the market today. Coupled with a firm commitment to the highest level of customer service, Precision Pigging is the preferred vendor for geometry/deformation inspections.
How can I contact Precision Pigging?
There are several different ways to contact Precision Pigging. First, you may use the Contact Us form on this website. We also have a toll-free number, 1-877-PIGG-070 (1-877-744-4070), which is answered live, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on holidays. If you have technical questions, please feel free to email us at [email protected]. For all sales-related questions, including requests for bids, please email [email protected]. Or, you may contact any of Precision Pigging’s employees directly by email using the format [email protected]
What are your terms of payment?
Precision Pigging’s standard terms of payment are Net 10 Days; however, we are willing to work with our clients if there are extenuating circumstances.
Where are your areas of operation?
Precision Pigging inspects both new construction and on-stream pipelines throughout North, Central, and South America. Precision Pigging also provides services in Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Where is Precision Pigging located?
Precision Pigging maintains its operational facilities at 7102 Mullins Drive, Houston, Texas 77081.
What is smart pigging?
Smart pigging refers to the use of pipeline pigs that obtain data from the pipeline. A “dumb” pig, such as a cleaning pig, does not record any data from the pipeline. There are several types of smart pigs, including geometry / deformation caliper pigs and magnetic flux leakage (MFL) detectors.
What is the difference between Precision Pigging's tool and an MFL tool?
An MFL tool primarily detects corrosion, and is typically used in on-stream applications. Precision Pigging’s geometry/deformation tool may be used in both new construction (pre-commissioning) and on-stream applications and can detect all of the following: Pipe Expansion along the Seam, Pipeline Reductions, Spiral and Girth Weld Pipe Seams, Weld Penetration, ID changes, misalignment, Bends/Gyro (using the Precision Pigging inertial system), Heavy Wall Pipe (HWP), Changes in Wall Thickness, Valves (Ball, Gate, Check), Tees, Sizing and Accuracy, High/Low of Welds and Bends, Ovalities, Buckles, Wrinkles, Dents, and other Pipeline Anomalies. Precision Pigging’s geometry/deformation tool is a time-sensitive and cost-effective choice, particularly with respect to new construction projects.
What can a Precision Pigging geometry/deformation tool detect?
Precision Pigging geometry/deformation tools are capable of detecting all pipeline features, including but not limited to: Pipe Expansion along the Seam, Pipeline Reductions, Spiral and Girth Weld Pipe Seams, Weld Penetration, ID changes, misalignment, Bends/Gyro (using the Precision Pigging inertial system), Heavy Wall Pipe (HWP), Changes in Wall Thickness, Valves (Ball, Gate, Check), Tees, Sizing and Accuracy, High/Low of Welds and Bends, Ovalities, Buckles, Wrinkles, Dents, and other Pipeline Anomalies
What size tools do you have?
Precision Pigging is capable of inspecting pipelines of diameter 4″ up to 48″.
What are Precision Pigging's tool capabilities?
Precision Pigging tools have a 97% first run success rate. Our tools are guaranteed to be accurate within 0.25%. Precision Pigging geometry/deformation tools are capable of running through back-to-back-to-back bends and record data every 2 milliseconds. For information specific to each size tool Precision Pigging runs, please visit our tool specifications, available for download.
What speed can Precision Pigging's tools run?
Precision Pigging tools are recommended to run between 3 and 6 mph, but can accurately record data at speeds up to 10 mph.
Can Precision Pigging inspect dual-diameter pipelines?
Yes. Please Contact Us to discuss the specifications of your particular application.
Does Precision Pigging provide tracking services?
Yes. Upon request, Precision Pigging can provide tracking services. Above-ground markers (AGMs) will be included when tracking services are requested.
Can you dewater?
Precision Pigging geometry caliper tools may be used as part of the dewatering process in new construction lines. Utilization of Precision Pigging geometry caliper tools during the dewatering process will not affect data collection.
What other services does Precision Pigging provide?
Upon request, Precision Pigging may provide mapping services to accurately locate your pipeline.
When will I get my field report?
Field reports are typically available the same day the inspection is performed, depending on the length of line inspected.
When will I get my final report?
Final reports are typically available within 2 weeks, depending on the length of line inspected.
How much notice do I need to provide/how quickly can Precision Pigging mobilize to my project?
For pipeline inspections within the Continental United States, Precision Pigging is capable of mobilizing on-site within 48 hours or less, if necessary. It is preferred to have a minimum of one-week notice; however, we understand conditions can change very quickly onsite and are pleased to be able to meet our clients’ needs.
What equipment do I need onsite to run the pig?
In order to run a Precision Pigging geometry/deformation tool in a new construction pipeline, you will need air compressors sufficient to run the tool. Please visit our Formulas page to determine the auto-generated calculations of the exact air requirements for a line section fill, run time, and the pig speed based on your specific line’s section numbers.
What are the air pressure requirements to run a Precision Pigging tool?
Please visit our Formulas page to determine the auto-generated calculations of the exact time required for a line section fill, run time, and the pig speed based on your specific line’s section numbers.
What head pressure does Precision Pigging require to run its tools?
Precision Pigging only requires between 25 and 35 psi of pre-packed air to successfully run our tools.
How can I obtain a quote for my project?
There are several ways to obtain a quote for your project: a) Call 1-877-PIGG-070 (1-877-744-4070); b) Request A Quote online; or c) Email Us with your project’s specifications and a Precision Pigging representative will contact you immediately. Precision Pigging bid proposals have a turnaround time of less than 24 hours.
How long will it take to obtain a bid proposal?
Precision Pigging bid proposals have a turnaround time of less than 24 hours.
What is Precision Pigging's safety record?
Precision Pigging maintains a firm commitment to safety in the workplace, with ZERO on-the-job accidents or fatalities since its inception in 1999. Statistics:
- 2007 – 2009 EMR = 1
- TRIR average for most recent 4 quarters = 0
- 2008 TRIR Industry average NAICS (541990) = 5.20* *Data from ISNetworld
What professional memberships does Precision Pigging maintain?
Precision Pigging is a proud Associate Member of the Pipe Line Contractors Association (PLCA), Southern Gas Association (SGA), and American Pipeline Contractors Association (APCA). In addition, Precision Pigging is a member of ISNetworld and utilizes the Pipeline Testing Consortium for compliance matters.
How will the new PHMSA Interim Guidelines affect pipeline inspections?
On September 10, 2009 the PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration) issued its Interim Guidelines for spiral-seamed pipe in gas lines, followed thereafter by their interim ruling in October 2009 for hazardous liquid lines. The Interim Guidelines establish three main requirements that a geometry inspection tool MUST have to comply with this ruling:
- the inspection tool must have “multi-finger sensors;”
- the multi-finger sensors must contact the internal diameter of the pipe; and
- the sensors must have an accuracy of +/- 1% or less to identify expanded pipe and dents.
These Interim Guidelines are applicable to operations of Class 1 pipe above 72% specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) and for all other pipe in the alternative maximum allowable operating pressure (MAOP) special permit pipeline.
When requesting a quote from a geometry tool vendor for pipelines which are governed by the Interim Guidelines, be sure to confirm the following items in writing:
- The tool meets the requirement of the sensors directly contacting the pipeline’s internal diameter and that the sensors are NOT inside the rear cup;
- The tool has a +/- 1% accuracy (most vendors are compliant);
- Required head pressure for the inspection;
- CFM required to push the tool during inspection; and
- Minimum and maximum speed of the tool during the inspection process.
Is Precision Pigging hiring?
Yes. Precision Pigging is anticipating rapid growth and we are always interested in reviewing applications from qualified new talent.
What positions are available at Precision Pigging?
Please visit our Careers page for current available employment positions. Precision Pigging is looking for motivated and qualified individuals in the areas of Field Engineering, Design Engineering, Computer Engineering, Shop Personnel, Sales, and Administrative positions.
How do I apply for employment with Precision Pigging?
Please send a completed employment application, current resume, and salary requirements to [email protected].