North Yorkshire-based pipeline technology specialist iNPIPE PRODUCTS is targeting international growth after launching a new magnetic pig signaller that allows operators to monitor equipment travelling through pipelines without welding or cutting into them. The company, headquartered in Brompton-on-Swale, near Richmond, has already secured an initial order for multiple units of its Mag-TRAX™ Magnetic Pig Signaller following a successful evaluation by an oil and gas company in South America. Developed and manufactured at its North Yorkshire facility, the technology is designed to detect the passage of pipeline pigs – devices used to clean, maintain and inspect pipelines carrying liquids and gases.
Unlike traditional mechanical signallers, which are welded onto pipelines and use a trigger activated by a passing pig, Mag-TRAX™ is clamped externally to the pipe. It detects the magnetic field generated by a suitably equipped pig, allowing operators to monitor its progress without penetrating the pipeline. The equipment can also be quickly installed, removed and repositioned, making it particularly useful for contractors working across multiple pipeline projects.
The launch follows extensive development and trials at iNPIPE’s Brompton-on-Swale headquarters and forms part of the company’s strategy to expand its international customer base.
Managing Director Simon Bell said: “Mechanical pig signallers have been part of the industry for decades and our intrusive signallers continue to be widely used and specified because they’re proven, reliable and effective. “Some projects require a signaller that operators or contractors can install quickly, without welding or penetrating the pipeline. “Mag-TRAX™ offers that flexibility, while its digital capabilities provide operators with precise data. It can self-calibrate and be remotely triggered, making it particularly useful where information needs to be fed back to a control room, as well as monitored directly in the field.
“The initial response has been extremely encouraging. Our customers are impressed with its performance and simplicity and are ordering multiple units, which gives us real confidence in its international potential, particularly as iNPIPE can supply both intrusive and non-intrusive systems together with the cleaning tools, giving customers the convenience of sourcing these products from one proven supplier.”
Mag-TRAX™ is suitable for pipelines ranging from two to 72 inches in diameter and can detect a passing pig through carbon steel, stainless steel and specialist alloys up to 60mm thick. Using digital signal processing, it distinguishes the magnetic signal of a passing pig from background interference, helping operators accurately track its movement in either direction. Available as a portable battery-powered unit or a permanent 24V DC version, the signaller can record up to 99 time-stamped passage events. Information can be viewed on its LCD display, downloaded to a PC or transmitted to a SCADA control system for remote monitoring.
Multiple Mag-TRAX™ units can also be integrated with iNPIPE’s Phoenix™ Debris Mapping Tool, allowing operators to monitor its progress through a pipeline and ensure it is travelling at the optimum speed.
The new product complements iNPIPE’s established range of intrusive pig signallers and its wider portfolio of pipeline pigging, maintenance, isolation and testing equipment supplied to customers worldwide. In addition to its North Yorkshire manufacturing headquarters, iNPIPE operates a service centre in Aberdeen, supporting customers across a range of pipeline sectors.
