Preparing & Filling Unisphere Pigs

TDW PIGGING INSIGHTS - Episode 3

Instructions for the preparation and filling of TDW Unisphere Pigs

TDW Unisphere Pig

TDW Unisphere pigs are seamless liquid cast polyurethane balls. They are designed for removal of liquid hydrocarbons and water as well as batch separation for pipelines handling different liquids.  Unisphere pigs are hollow, they can be filled with liquid and also be inflated with pressure to match the pipeline’s ID.

Preparation for Use

Unispheres must be filled with liquid before use.  Water/glycol or light lube oil solutions are recommended. It is best to avoid using pure glycol as a filling solution. The 4 inch to 8 inch Unispheres have one filling valve. Larger spheres have two valves; either valve can be used. Other components required are an inflating valve, valve core, pipe plug, filling adapter and valve core extractor.

Filling Procedure (not including inflating with pressure)

1.       Remove inflating valve with a 3/8 in Allen wrench.

2.       Fill sphere with liquid using funnel or hose.

3.       The opening must be at the top and sphere completely filled with air displaced.  Rolling the sphere slightly around can help to settle liquid and displace air.

4.       Inspect O-Ring on inflating valve for nicks and burrs, and replace if necessary.  Apply lubricant to O Ring and threads.

5.       Remove pipe plug, and check the tightness of valve. A valve core extractor is available.

6.       Install inflating valve and tighten securely.

The above steps are a guide designated to be read in conjunction with TDW Unisphere instructions. Download by clicking on the red button.


TDW PIG RESOURCES

Register for TDW’s e-commerce site and quick-ship Pigs.


To learn more about TDW Pigs or find Resource guides, see the TDW Pig Resource page.


If you have questions, please contact the Kerr Engineered Sales Company who are also available for team for presentations, lunch and learns and customer visits.