Subsea pig launcher
US6428241B1 · kind B1 · utility
9Cited by
14References
16Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 6, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB08B9/055
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A subsea pig launcher, that can launch either 1 or more pipeline pigs simultaneously. The pig launcher can be assembled on a subseas production pipeline with the aid of an ROV. In the preferred embodiment, the pigs are connected to each other and spaced apart by a spine. The pig launcher is configured to capture the next pig to be launched in such a manner that the spine behind it is in alignment with a shearing valve; for example, coiled tubing or wireline. Sequential valve operation shears the spine and applies pressure behind the pig to launch it from the launcher past the pig detector and onto a platform for recapture.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.