U.K. manufacturing firm Forth Engineering has developed a remotely operated mechanical retrieval system for removing cleaning devices deployed and then subsequently stuck in pipelines — an issue affecting the oil and gas industry called pigging wherein a device travels a pipeline via downstream pressure that forces the lodged item to the end of the pipeline.

Pipelines clogged with jammed cleaning devices, or pigs, deployed for the purpose of cleaning oil and gas conduits, can reportedly be cleared using Forth Engineering’s Spherical Pig Retrieval system.

Source: Forth Engineering

According to its developers, Forth Engineering's Spherical Pig Retrieval system can remove stuck devices via its camera-mounted, suction cup grab system with auto release.

The system is fitted with electrically conductive castors for protecting the system as it operates in explosive atmospheres. The device also features a spring-loaded trolley and castor assemblies to alleviate circumferential imperfections and defects within the pipeline.

Forth Engineering suggests that the Spherical Pig Retrieval System will enable oil and gas producers to return to normal operating speeds faster than traditional pigging methods.