Pipeline pigging specialist iNPIPE PRODUCTS is targeting international growth following the launch of its new non-intrusive Mag-TRAX™ Magnetic Pig Signaller.

The new technology has already attracted international interest, with an evaluation by an oil and gas company in South America leading to an initial order for multiple units.

Developed and manufactured at iNPIPE’s North Yorkshire headquarters, Mag-TRAX™ enables operators to detect and monitor the passage of pigs without cutting into pipelines or welding equipment onto them.

Instead, the signaller is clamped externally to the pipe, detecting the magnetic field generated by a suitably equipped pig as it passes. Its ability to be quickly installed, removed and repositioned makes it particularly suited to contractors working across multiple pipeline projects.

The technology has applications across the pipeline sector, including liquid and gas pipelines, where pigs are routinely used for cleaning, maintenance and inspection. iNPIPE also operates a service centre in Aberdeen, supporting customers across a range of sectors.

Mag-TRAX™ was launched following extensive development and trials at the company’s Brompton-on-Swale facility.

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.”

Available as either a portable battery-powered unit or a permanent 24V DC version, the bidirectional Mag-TRAX™ can store up to 99 time-stamped passage events. Data can be viewed on its LCD display, downloaded to a PC or transmitted to a SCADA control system.

Suitable for pipelines ranging from two to 72 inches in diameter, the system uses digital signal processing to distinguish a passing pig from background interference. It can detect through carbon steel, stainless steel and specialist alloys up to 60mm thick.

When multiple units are integrated with iNPIPE’s Phoenix™ Debris Mapping Tool, operators can monitor the tool’s progress and ensure it is travelling at the optimum speed.

The technology complements iNPIPE’s established range of intrusive pig signallers, which are welded to pipelines and use a mechanical trigger activated by a passing pig.

Together, the intrusive and non-intrusive systems form part of the company’s wider portfolio of pipeline pigging, maintenance, isolation and testing equipment supplied to customers worldwide.