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Why Pipeline Pigging is an Essential Service for the Community and Environment

Posted by Apache Pipeline Products on July 15, 2020 in Blog.

There is no doubt that pipelines are the safest and most environmentally friendly way to transport oil and natural gas.

However, this level of safety can only be guaranteed by proper inspection and maintenance of these pipelines.

Enter the pig – the Pipeline Inspection Gauge that performs in-line inspections as part of a pipeline’s regular maintenance routine.

When an in-line inspection identifies a potential issue that could lead to a leak or spill, investigative digs can then be conducted to inspect the issue and carry out any necessary repairs.

Without pipeline pigging, these early signs of issue or irregularity may not be detected in time.

But when they are, operators can stop pipeline flow within minutes to prevent further disaster from affecting the environment and the community.

What is the Purpose of Pigging?

Pipeline pigs serve two important purposes: to clear out built up debris or deposits in a pipe and detect any cracks or flaws in its structure.

And there are specific pigs for specific jobs. Engineers must consider a number of criteria before selecting the right pig for the job.

This is determined based on what task the pig will be performing as well as the size and operating conditions of the pipeline and what the pipeline layout is.

Pipeline pigs are used by introducing them into the pipeline through a pig trap, a specialized section of pipe that includes a launcher and receiver. The pig is then forced or towed through the product flow without interrupting it.

Pigs that are designed for cleaning sweep the line by scraping the sides of the pipeline and pushing debris ahead. Others can be equipped with inspection tools to collect digital data on the condition of the pipe’s interior.

Pipeline pigging is used throughout all phases of a pipeline’s life-span.

Inside the Smart Pig

As mentioned above, pigs can be equipped to gather invaluable data on the interior condition of a pipeline.

These are called smart pigs (or “intelligent pigs”) and were first developed in the 1960’s by pipeline operators in order to “see” inside the pipelines.

Smart pigs are a sophisticated tool used by oil and gas companies to identify potential issues before they happen – and they can pinpoint these issues within few inches.

This way, problems can be repaired before there is any danger to the community and environment.

A smart pig consists of the following components:

  • Onboard battery. The onboard battery powers the pig’s data collection.
  • Data canisters. This component stores the data collected by the pig.
  • Sensors. These sensors detect any defects or anomalies along the interior surface of the pipe.
  • Magnets. High-powered magnets emit a magnetic field to detect any metal loss within the pipes.
  • GPS tracking. This component allows operators to track the pig’s precise location.
  • Odometer wheel. The odometer wheel tracks the speed and distance of the pig.
  • Sealing discs/cups. These sealing elements ensure that the pig flows with the product.

By using pigs to inspect the conditions of a pipeline, operators are not required to shut down production in order to do so.

This means that the flow of product can continue and oil and gas operators can conduct regular and frequent inspections and repairs on the pipelines.

Efficiency and Safety

Pipeline pigging is essential to assure safe and continuous operation of the pipeline system. For the oil and gas companies, this means better performance of the pipeline, lower installation and maintenance costs, longer pipeline lifetime and improved product capacity.

For the community and environment, this means that pipelines continue to transport oil and natural gas in a safe manner with virtually no risk of leaks or spills.

Apache Pipeline Products specializes in pigging and pig-related products. We understand the importance of maintaining a safe and efficient pipeline.

Our team is dedicated to providing the oil and gas industry with the highest quality pipeline cleaning and maintenance.

Check out our catalog or contact us today for more information!

Robin Eastman

Business Development Specialist

Robin Eastman joined the Apache team as a Business Development Specialist in the spring of 2025, bringing over 15 years of technical pigging experience. He enjoys delving into customer applications and recommending solutions that deliver observable, quantifiable results.

As Robin puts it: “Working for a full-spectrum manufacturer like Apache opens limitless opportunities across industries. I’ve gained new insight into the widespread use and value of polyurethane applications.” Robin is a 15-year member of AMPP (formerly NACE) and has completed training in Basic Corrosion, further enhancing his ability to provide technically sound solutions to clients.

When he’s away from the office, you’ll find Robin spending time with family, his wife and three boys, biking through Calgary’s Fish Creek Park, or honing his green thumb.

Brad Strader

International Sales

Brad started with Apache in the international sales department in 2023 with a background in chemical sales in the oil and gas sector. He enjoys the new challenges this role brings as well as the atmosphere in the office. In his spare time in the fall, winter and early spring, he coaches his sons U-13 hockey team and organizes various fundraising activities.  In the summer, you can find him camping at various locations around western Canada.

Hanna Kuduzovic

Accounting Supervisor

Hanna joined Apache in 2018 as an Accounting Clerk and is now the Accounting Supervisor overseeing a team of amazing accounting staff. In her free time she likes to spend time with her family, going on walks with her dog, being part of a book club and camping trips.

Ellyse Tyler

Accounting

Ellyse began her journey with Apache in 2008 as a receptionist before moving to the accounting and payroll team. She’s grateful to work alongside such an amazing group every day. When not at work, you’ll find her spending time with family, reading, travelling, or watching sports—Go Jays Go!

Jane Palabrica

Accounting Technician

Jane joined Apache in 2023 as an Accounting Clerk and was promoted to Accounting Technician in 2024. She supports financial reporting, reconciliations, and day-to-day accounting tasks to keep everything running smoothly. The key is continuous learning and teamwork to make the dream work. Outside work, she loves spending time with her loved ones, dog, and nephew, going on walks, enjoying movie nights, and cooking.

Josh Cheramy

Inside Sales Supervisor

Josh started at Apache in 2019 doing Inside Sales. He has since advanced into the Inside Sales Supervisor role where he oversees both domestic and international inside sales. A BCom graduate from the University of Alberta, Josh prioritizes strong relationships and team building in his everyday work life. Outside of the office, Josh enjoys both playing and watching sports, travelling, and spending time with his family, friends, and dogs.

Anthony D’Amore

Product Specialist

Anthony started with Apache in November of 2022 in Outside Sales. He enjoys being face to face with our valued client base, learning the ins and outs of pipeline cleaning and forging new relationships. He embraces challenging situations and the opportunity to find new and creative solutions. Outside of work, he coaches hockey and spends his free time with family, golfing and flyfishing.

Mike Neufeld

Inside Sales Product Specialist

Mike joined Apache in 2021, bringing with him over 10 years of sales experience in the oil and gas industry. He enjoys the challenges each day brings and takes pride in helping and supporting Apache’s customers. Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. He is also an avid sports enthusiast who loves golf and curling.

Chris Lakey

Inside Sales Product Specialist

Chris started with Apache in the fall of 2023 in an inside sales position. Since then, he has also taken on the role of production scheduling for the flagship pigPRO product line. Chris recently graduated from NAIT’s business program and is looking forward to applying the skills he learned there in his roles at Apache. In his free time, he enjoys painting, reading, and continuing his education in various new subjects.  

Bobby Potts

Procurement & Technical Support

If you’re looking for someone who embodies dedication and versatility, look no further than Bobby. Since joining our team in 2000, he hasn’t just been an employee; he’s become a cornerstone of the Apache team. He has worked in all aspects of the company, from the Manufacturing shop floor to Sales Management. Currently Bobby’s title is Procurement and Technical support, however, he can be found wherever needed.

Bobby’s contributions go far beyond the shop floor. He is a proud participant and contributor to our now legendary company celebration, “Meatfest.” 

This initiative perfectly captures his generous spirit and dedication to bringing people together.

With a quarter century of service, Bobby’s loyalty, unparalleled customer service and deep well of experience are truly unmatched. 

Hugh Coomansingh

Manufacturing Manager

Hugh started with Apache in 2023 as the Manufacturing Manager. He enjoys driving the daily synergy between Sales and Production, thriving on delivering a quality product, on-time to the shipping group . He’s passionate about safety. Away from work, Hugh enjoys birding, hiking and cycling.

Ryan Haskins

Sales & Marketing Manager

Ryan started with Apache in 2015 in Outside Sales before transitioning to Sales Manager in 2021 and eventually Sales and Marketing Manager in 2024. He enjoys building relationships with our expanding customer base and working with the strong team we’ve built at Apache. Away from work, Ryan is usually with his family and friends enjoying hockey, golf, baseball, skiing, and summer trips to the lake.

Chris Chase

President

Chris Chase first joined the team on a part-time basis in 2005, laying the groundwork for a career defined by growth and commitment. After transitioning to a full-time role in 2007, he moved through the company building expertise in several facets of our operations.

His comprehensive experience includes key leadership roles in   Fabrication, Urethane Foam Production, Inside Sales, and Business Development, advancing to Plant Manager, Vice President, culminating in his current role as President. This unique, ground-up perspective ensures that his leadership is not only strategic but also deeply rooted in the practical realities of our work and the needs of our team.

Away from work, Chris is all in for family time with his wife and their daughters. Chris wears his “girl dad” title with pride, whether he’s coaching his three daughters’ teams or cheering them on from the sidelines. When he has time to unwind, you can find him enjoying sports, being on the water, and quiet moments at the family cabin.

Brett McNabb

Director of Sales

Brett joined the Apache team in 2007 as a Product Specialist, he later assumed the role of Sales and Marketing Manager, and eventually Director of Sales in 2024. With over 18+ years of experience in the pipeline industry, his expertise lies in providing innovative pipeline cleaning solutions. In his personal time, Brett enjoys spending time with friends and family, coaching hockey, playing golf, skiing and relaxing at the cabin.

Jamie Orr

Director of Operations

Jamie has been working in the Oil and Gas industry as a Mechanical Engineer for over 25 years and joined Apache in 2018. He started in the Engineering group but now has added Manufacturing and Quality Control to his responsibilities. He still enjoys coming up with new designs and being on the floor when prototypes are built and tested.  When he’s not at work, his greatest joy is spending time with his family, whether they’re enjoying the outdoors together or he’s pursuing his hobbies of woodworking and carving in his home shop.

Jordan Simpson

Quality Assurance Manager

Jordan started with Apache in 2022 and is responsible for Quality and Safety. A typical day includes ensuring customers’ expectations are understood and met through the administration of our ISO 9001 Quality Management System and ensuring that our team members go home safe and sound every day through the implementation of our ISO 45001 based Occupational Health and Safety Management System.

Kevin Nam

Engineering Manager

Kevin joined Apache in 2021 as Engineering Manager.  Kevin is a Professional Engineer with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta. At Apache, he enjoys the challenge of designing and developing the highest quality products on the market. Outside of work, Kevin spends as much time as he can with his family and friends. He enjoys travelling abroad and local camping trips to the Lake.

Lori Lacza

Human Resources

An Edmontonian decided to take the “Argh” out of HR. Following roles in business and market training, she made it happen! After a decade of hiking and honing HR skills in Calgary, Lori returned to join Apache in 2023. She provides comprehensive internal support, guiding projects and simplifying compliance. When away from her desk, she chases three doodle dawgs, bikes, hikes and plays in the snow. Go Oilers!