From Unknown To Understood: Advanced Inspection With Phoenix
- Robert Robinson
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
One platform. Two capabilities. Phoenix sets a new standard in pipeline understanding. Its modular design and advanced inspection technology make it ideal for tackling complex onshore and offshore pipeline challenges, delivering the insight needed to make informed, data-driven decisions.
iNPIPE PRODUCTS™ offers advanced pigging and inspection technologies developed for challenging pipeline environments across multiple sectors, including oil and gas, water and the broader energy infrastructure industry. The Phoenix Smart Pigging System delivers intelligent, high-accuracy pipeline mapping and visual inspection, providing actionable internal condition data — even in pipelines with no prior documentation.
A recent water sector project demonstrated the system’s flexibility and value. A leading civil engineering firm approached iNPIPE PRODUCTS™ to inspect and map a 4.2 km, 500 mm diameter ductile iron water main with no existing pipeline documentation.
iNPIPE PRODUCTS™ provided a complete turnkey service, including the design of bespoke methods for the introduction and extraction of various tools to progressively understand the complex and previously undocumented geometry of the pipeline.
The inspection run deployed the Phoenix debris mapping tool, which combines advanced 360° sensor technology with high definition video capture. The system delivers internal dimensional measurements accurate to 0.1mm at 5mm intervals, while simultaneously mapping the pig’s position throughout the pipeline. The high resolution imagery cross references with the measurement data to provide a comprehensive internal condition profile—particularly valuable when assessing features such as joints, valve seats and seals.
In addition, the Phoenix software identifies and quantifies internal debris, pinpointing its exact location and calculating volume. This enables targeted cleaning strategies and supports a predictive maintenance approach. Through its integrated AI capabilities, Phoenix can validate cleaning frequencies and forecast future debris accumulation—helping operators optimise tool selection and pigging regimes.
Internal high-definition video inspectionThe Phoenix tool is modular and fully customisable for each application. It can be configured in two formats: a rigid, metal-bodied cup pig incorporating an approximate 20% reduction in pipeline internal diameter, or a flexible foam pig designed for negotiating more demanding pipeline geometries and tighter bend radii. The system is scalable for use in pipelines ranging from 600mm to 3,500mm in diameter.
All pigging tools are designed, manufactured and tested in the UK at iNPIPE PRODUCTS™’ facilities in Brompton-on-Swale and Aberdeen. Each system undergoes rigorous quality assurance to ensure reliable performance in the field. Backed by over four decades of technical expertise, the company provides comprehensive support from initial design through to successful deployment—anywhere in the world.
+44 (0)1748 813 270
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