Pipeline Pig Launcher Quick Opening Closures
The function of Pigging Launchers and Receivers
Pigging Launchers and receivers also commonly referred to as pig trap assemblies are used to introduce and remove in a safe and effective manner, scraper cleaning pigs, spheres and inspection tools (commonly referred to as Smart Pigs or Intelligent pigs) through liquid, gas and multi-phase hydrocarbon pipelines. The main purpose of a pipeline pig trap system thus is to provide, in a safe manner and without flow interruption, the means to either:
Parts of a Pig Trap - Pig Launcher or Pig Receiver
- Major barrel
- Minor barrel
- End closure
- Pig signaller
- Kicker line connection
- Pressure gauge connection
- Vent and drain connection
- Utility connections
The Launcher End Closure
Closures are basically “doors” used for ease in gaining internal access to launchers and receivers.
Closure Safety
Pig launchers and receivers and equipped with doors which are called end closures. The end closure is welded to the major barrel and hence its material and end wall thickness should be compatible with the barrel material. End closures are generally of quick opening type and are fitted with safety interlocks to prevent opening when the barrel is pressurized. The safety mechanism on the end closure may be specified to comply with the requirements of ASME Section VIII Division 1, UG-35. The safety feature in the end closure is important because the launching and receiving operation is complex and inadvertent opening of closure door while the pig trap is in a pressurized condition is not uncommon. The hinge position of the end closure and the maximum swing position should be checked for any obstructions. The clearance envelope for the door should be either modeled in 3D plant design system or shown on 2D piping layouts to ensure clear area is available for opening of the end closure. All the hinges should be preferably oriented on the same side in a pig trap area.
Closure Products
Tube Turns® Products of Sypris Technologies Inc. manufactures a family of closures in sizes ranging from 2” to 72”. Our closures are manufactured from a wide variety of ASME approved materials including Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel (304, 304L, 316, 316L, Duplex and Super Duplex), Monel®, Inconel®, Hastelloy® and other exotic materials as specified by our customers. Tube Turns® designs and manufactures a complete line of closures to international standards, including ASME Section VIII Division I and Division II, PD 5500 / BS EN 13445, with termination specifications to meet ASME B31.3, B31.4, B31.8 and many others. All closures can be designed for either horizontal or vertical applications and can be equipped with such accessories as sight glasses, nozzles, drains, gauges, sampling ports, open/close automation, and safety interlocks. Connection types including full and reduced access as well as mitered designs for inclined or declined vessels are available. Sypris Technologies, Tube Turns® Products offers the most diverse and complete closure product portfolio in the world.
Design Specifications
- Nominal Diameter Range: 8" - 84" standard, custom sizes available on request
- Designed and Manufactured in Accordance With: ASME Division VIII, ASME B31.3, ASME B31.4, & ASME B31.8
- Orientation: Horizontal, Vertical, or Inclined
- Safety Features: Integrated Pressure Warning Device to alert operator of pressure behind the door.
- Pressure Class: 150#, 300#, 600#, 900#, 1500#
Pipeline Pig LAUNCHER End Closure STYLES
Double Bolt Yoke Style End Closure
Tube Turns® Double and Single Yoke Style Closures are widely accepted throughout the world for applications where frequent access is required or where the blind flanges are cumbersome and time consuming. Yoke Style Closures can be equipped with operating aids to simplify operation and speed up opening and closing. Devices such as breakover wrenches and chain and sprocket drives are available Size range 2” – 72” Pressure range ANSI 150 - 2500.
Locking Band Tool-Less End Closure
TOOL-LESS® closures are high pressure quick opening closures (QOC) supplied in the vertical or horizontal configuration. The TOOL-LESS® is designed to be opened and closed by one person in one minute without the use of additional tools. TOOL-LESS® closures are suitable for use on natural gas filter separators where filter element replacement requires frequent vessel access. Horizontal TOOL-LESS® closures include double-pivot heavy duty hinge while the vertical closures can be furnished with a robust davit to raise the door once unlocked. Size Ranges 8” – 72” Pressure range ANSI 150 – ANSI 2500.
Threaded End Closures
Design is simple yet robust. Heavy duty davit assembly is furnished for effective alignment of head and hub. Components are manufactured utilizing precision CNC machining to provide accurate and consistent dimensions. Threaded closures are economically priced with attractive lead times to meet the most demanding customer requirements. Size Range 2” – 24” pressures ANSI 150 - ANSI 900 Size Range 26” – 36” pressure ANSI 150 - ANSI 600.
Now Offering Pipeline Pig Signalers
The Sypris® Technologies Sig-Tech® intrusive Pig Signaler can be installed at pre-determined intervals on pipelines to detect the passage of a cast polyurethane pigs or spherical type pigs.