US 8,296,894 B2 · Apparatus for automated launching of multiple pipeline pigs

Abstract

A pipeline pig and pig launching apparatus which allow the automatic launching of multiple pigs into a pipeline are claimed. The pipeline pig comprises an elongate body having first and second ends and a fluid passage defined therein. The fluid passage has an inlet at the first end of the body and an outlet at the second end of the body. At least two support members project radially outwardly from the body and are spaced longitudinally from one another along the body. A valve means is located within the passage and adapted to selectively move between a first position in which fluid is free to flow through the outlet and a second position in which fluid cannot flow through the outlet. A projecting member extends longitudinally from the first end of the body.

Claims24

Dependent claims

A first pipeline pig comprising:

an elongate body having first and second ends and a fluid passage defined therein, the fluid passage having an inlet at the first end of the body and an outlet at the second end of the body;
at least two support members projecting radially outwardly from the body and spaced longitudinally from one another along the body;
a projecting member extending longitudinally from the first end of the body;
and
a valve means located within the passage and adapted to selectively move between a first position in which fluid is free to flow through the outlet and a second position in which fluid cannot flow through the outlet;
and
wherein the valve means is adapted to be held in the first position by a projecting member of an identical second pig when the first and second pigs are arranged in-line.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Apparatus for automated launching of multiple pipeline pigs

Life of this patent

Apparatus for automated launching of multiple pipeline pigs

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims24