Pig Signal Detector - TD Williamson PIG-SIG®Pig signal detector is a specialized device used in pipeline maintenance to detect and track the movement of pipeline inspection gauges, commonly known as pigs, as they travel through pipelines. These pigs are tools inserted into pipelines to perform tasks like cleaning, inspecting, or separating batches of fluids. The detector typically uses sensors, such as magnetic or acoustic sensors, to identify signals emitted by the pig, which may carry a transmitter or have distinct physical properties that the detector can pick up. When the pig passes a designated point, the detector registers its presence, often recording the time and location, which helps operators monitor the pig’s progress and ensure it is functioning correctly or has reached its intended destination. Pig signal detectors are critical in industries like oil and gas, where pipelines span long distances, as they provide real-time data to prevent blockages, verify inspection completion, or locate a stuck pig, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
A pig signal detector is a mechanical switch to verify that a pig has left the launcher or has entered the receiver. Can also be used to provide a discrete input (DI) into the PLC for automated pigging. A pig signal may be known colloquially as a pig-sig which should not be confused with a PIG-SIG® which is a registerd trademark of TD Williamson.
