Intelligent pigging is a type of nondestructive testing (NDT) used in the oil and gas industry to inspect and evaluate the condition of pipelines. Intelligent pigging involves the use of a specialized tool known as a pipeline inspection gauge (PIG), which is designed to travel through the pipeline and perform a range of inspections and measurements.

Intelligent pigging is used to detect and diagnose defects, corrosion, and other anomalies in pipelines, without causing any damage or disruption to the pipeline’s operation. Intelligent pigging is typically performed on pipelines that transport oil, gas, and other fluids, and is used to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of the pipeline.

Intelligent pigging typically involves the use of advanced and specialized NDT methods and techniques, such as ultrasonic testing, magnetic flux leakage, and eddy current testing. These methods and techniques allow the PIG to inspect and evaluate the internal and external surfaces, structures, and properties of the pipeline, and to provide detailed and accurate information about the pipeline’s condition.

Intelligent pigging is performed by qualified and certified NDT technicians, who have the skills, knowledge, and experience to operate the PIG and to interpret and evaluate the results of the inspections. Intelligent pigging technicians typically work in oil and gas facilities, and are responsible for ensuring the quality, reliability, and safety of the pipelines.

Intelligent pigging is regulated by national and international standards and guidelines, such as the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). These standards and guidelines provide requirements and guidance for the application, performance, and evaluation of intelligent pigging, and are used to ensure the consistency, reliability, and validity of intelligent pigging inspections and results.