Troubleshooting for the TDW PIG-SIG® V
PIG-SIGs detect pigs, spheres, scrapers, and other tools as they pass distinct points along the pipeline. They can also alert operators if a pig is lost or stuck. This blog has tips and solutions to the most common issues with the TDW Pig Sig V.
tips and solutions FOR issues with TDW Pig-Sig V.
Pig passage indicators are commonly referred to as “PIG-SIGs,” a term TDW originated more than 60 years ago. They accurately detect pigs, spheres, scrapers, and other tools as they pass distinct points along the pipeline and when they reach the receiver, and can also alert operators if a pig is lost or stuck.
The weatherproof and corrosion-resistant PIG-SIG® V pig passage indicator is built to withstand most environments. All components exposed to pipeline products are completely sealed to prevent leaks.
PIG SIG V OPERATIONS GUIDE
NOTE: It is very important to read these troubleshooting guidelines in conjunction with the Pig Sig V Operating and Maintenance instructions PIG- SIG V Guide
ISSUE: The Plug assembly won’t thread on to the THREAD-O-RING ™ Nipple
Verify that it is indeed a TDW THREAD-O-RING. The hole in the pipe may be too small or not centered. The TDW THREAD-O-RING may be swedged due to over-tightening of a valve or cap. Measure the inside dimension (ID) to ensure it is not swedged or egged.
ISSUE: PIG-SIG V has never worked correctly
Verify that the proper TDW THREAD-O-RING was used to correspond with the wall thickness of the pipe. Measure the height of the THREAD-O-RING as it is mounted to the pipe and then add that measurement to the wall thickness of the pipe. The measurement should not exceed 4.50 inches but needs to be greater than 4.25 inches.
ISSUE: The Plug stopped working correctly
If the plug is contaminated, install a new filter pack version. If there is wax build up in the plug: consult with the TDW factory regarding other plug options.
If The Trigger is damaged, the first step is to verify that the proper TDW THREAD-O-RING was used for corresponding wall thickness of pipe. Measure the height of the TDW THREADO-RING as it is mounted to the pipe and then add that measurement to the wall thickness of the pipe. This measurement should not exceed 4.50 inches but needs to be greater than 4.25 inches.
The plug may have wax or other buildup that is preventing the trigger from moving. This can lead to the plug being damaged.
ISSUE Electrical or Combo Electrical switch is not sending electrical signal
Check for the proper switch adjustment. Please refer to electrical switch instruction in the manual and ensure that the switch is adjusted properly.
Ensure that the double torsion spring is still installed correctly.
Verify that the indicator is properly installed. Check the indicator installation by removing a set screw and looking for the groove on the plug.
Verify that the plug is fully installed. Measure the distance the plug extends above the THREAD-O-RING Nipple; the distance should be 1 3/8 inches.
In the event of freezing weather, the seal on the indicator may have been compromised allowing water to enter the upper position of the plug. This water can freeze and not allow the magnet to move.
ISSUE: Indicator - The All Types Flag doesn’t raise after assumed pig passage
Verify that the indicator is properly installed: check indicator installation by removing a set screw and looking for the groove on the plug.
Verify that the plug is fully installed: Measure the distance the plug extends above the THREAD-O-RING nipple (should be 1-3/8 inches).
In the event of freezing weather: the seal on the indicator may have been compromised allowing water to enter the upper portion of the plug. This water can freeze and not allow the magnet to move. Remove indicator and check for moisture.
IN THE EVENT OF FREEZING WEATHER:
Remove indicator to check for moisture. 65 Section VII – Maintenance Table 11. PIG-SIG V Maintenance Intervals Item Interval Seal Inspect every six months for tears or cracks.
Replace annually (order seal kit).
Magnet Inspect annually.
Replace if cracks or chips are present.
Indicator O-ring is recommended to be replaced annually.
Plug O-ring Inspect any time the plug is removed. Replace annually.
Plug Backup Ring should be replaced each time the plug is removed.
NOTE: Times may vary depending on the pipeline product and the environment that the unit is exposed to.
ISSUE:Flag does not raise after assumed pig passage/switch does not actuate or release (reset)
Proper switch adjustment: refer to electrical switch instruction in the manual and ensure the switch is adjusted properly. The gap between polymer slider and switch plunger should be between 0.005 and 0.02 inches (0.1 to 0.6mm).
To discuss issues with your Pig Sig V please contact any of the KERR team.
Kerr Engineered Sales Company has been representing leading pipeline repair and performance companies in Eastern US since the company was founded in 1952. Seventy years later, the company is still a family run business serving customers with the highest quality service and support.
NGA Fall Operations Conference Oct 6&7
Join the KERR team at the Northeast Gas Association Fall Operations Conference on October 6& 7, 2022 at the Saratoga Hilton, Saratoga Springs, New York.
October 6-7, 2022 Saratoga Hilton, Saratoga Springs, New York
Join the KERR team at the Northeast Gas Association Fall Operations Conference
NGA’s 2022 Fall Operations Conference is open to natural gas distribution and transmission company operations personnel with interests in customer services, utilization, damage prevention, pipeline safety, methane emissions reduction.
The conference has four separate tracks with workshops and breakout sessions on both days. The four tracks include:
C u s t o m e r S e r v i ce s / U t i l i z a t i o n
D a m a g e P r e v e n t i o n
P i p e l i n e S a f e t y M a n a g e m e n t
Me t h a n e E m i s s i o n s & R e d u c t i o n
Kerr Engineered Sales Company has been representing leading pipeline repair and performance companies in Eastern US since the company was founded in 1952. Seventy years later, the company is still a family run business serving customers with the highest quality service and support.
NYS Pipeline Safety Regulatory, Operations Seminar
Join the KERR team at the New York State Pipeline Safety Regulatory and Operations Seminar October 3-6 at the Otesaga Hotel in Cooperstown, New York.
October 3-6, 2022 Cooperstown, New York
Join the KERR team at the NYS Pipeline Safety Regulatory & Operations Seminar.
The New York State Department of Public Service (NYDPS), in association with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), is hosting a Pipeline Safety Seminar at The Otesaga Hotel and Resort in Cooperstown, New York.
Representatives from NYDPS, PHMSA, local gas distribution companies, interstate operators of natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines, and gathering line operators will be there.
The focus of the seminar will be on operating issues related to pipeline safety including pipeline integrity management programs (IMP), in-line inspection, direct assessment, underground damage prevention, public education and awareness, and new technology development. The Seminar will also include an update on federal pipeline safety rule making and initiatives, including an update on gathering line operators.
Kerr Engineered Sales Company has been representing leading pipeline repair and performance companies in Eastern US since the company was founded in 1952. Seventy years later, the company is still a family run business serving customers with the highest quality service and support.
PIPES ACT 2020 Inspection & Maintenance
These mandates require pipeline owners and operators to update their inspection and maintenance plans in order to address eliminating hazardous leaks and minimizing the release of natural gas from their pipeline facilities.
The PHMSA PIPES ACT 2020 mandates pipeline owners and operators to update their inspection and maintenance plans in order to address eliminating hazardous leaks and minimizing the release of natural gas (including intentional venting during normal operations) from their pipeline facilities. The statute requires pipeline operators to complete updates and have plans in place.
Have you implemented the PIPES ACT 2020 into your operational procedures?
Are you implementing set plans to reduce emissions when carrying out pipeline maintenance and repair projects?
Kerr Engineered Sales Company represents manufactures with multiple proven solutions to reduce emissions and assist in leak detection and repair.
Reducing Emissions With GPT
GPT Monolithic Isolation Joint
With gaskets and joints, seal ability is key. The VCS-ID gasket constructed of Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) and a 316SS, has a PTFE (polytetrefluoroethylene) inside diameter (ID) immediately seals the pipe bore preventing media from getting to the GRE. The GPT Monolithic Isolation Joints for below ground pipe applications gives a positive, leak proof block against the flow of electrical current in the piping system.
The EVOLUTION gasket eliminates GRE completely. It benefits from the addition of the PTFE ID giving unparalleled sealing tightness performance, ideal for emission reduction in pipeline connections.
BRUEST CATALYTIC HEATERS
Bruest HOTCAT heaters upgrade performance with reduced emissions
Bruest offers catalytic converters that convert hydrocarbon such as Methane, Propane, and Butane to carbon dioxide and water vapor. The Bruest technology leverages the conversion process and generates infrared heat to safely heat up natural gas instruments such as valves, regulators, instrument gas and cold temperature sensitive devices.
ZEVAC = Zero emission vacuum & compression
ZEVAC is an industry pioneer in gas and liquid recovery technology and the recognized leader in methane mitigation applications. ZEVAC is ideal for reducing emissions on planned repairs or maintenance. The technology uses compressed air to draw the pressure down on a section of the pipe and capture natural gas to be re-compressed into an adjacent pipeline.
ZEVAC uses compressed air to draw the pressure down on a section of the pipe and capture natural gas to be re-compressed into an adjacent pipeline.
Each unit has a pneumatic powered vacuum that suctions methane from any pipe/vessel that needs to be de-pressurized.The other side of the ZEVAC unit compresses the gas back up to pipeline pressure so it can be discharged to a nearby transmission or distribution pipe.
GAZOMAT GAZOSCAN METHANE LEAK DETECTION
GAZOMAT Gazoscan methane leak detection
Using optical technologies, GAZOMAT detection equipment covers the entire field detection process, including high-speed inspection by car, leak detection on-foot, leak location and quantification, coupled with the newest data processing and GPS mapping tools.
TDW Pipeline maintenance
TDW STOPPLE® isolates a section of line for repairs while maintaining gas supply
T.D. Williamson hot tapping and plugging teams use world class technology to create safe work zones for pressurized pipeline maintenance, modification and repair. TDW in-line inspection (ILI) technologies are fully engineered to provide comprehensive threat assessment and to detect cracks and crack-like anomalies, corrosion and metal loss, dents and interacting threats.
To learn more, download the PHMSA Pipes Act guidelines below.
To discuss how Kerr can support your organization with PIPES ACT plans and implementation, contact us by email or phone at 1-800-245-3198.
Kerr Engineered Sales Company has been representing leading pipeline repair and performance companies in Eastern US since the company was founded in 1952. Seventy years later, the company is a third generation family run business serving customers with the highest quality service and support.