Atlas Copco solutions for pipeline services
Key pipeline service applications
Pipeline pigging
Compressed air and nitrogen are commonly used to propel pigs through pipelines for cleaning, inspection, product separation and maintenance activities.
Dewatering and drying
Following hydrotesting, pipelines must be effectively dewatered and dried to prevent corrosion and prepare the line for commissioning. Portable compressors and desiccant dryers help achieve the required dew point.
Leak testing and pressure testing
High-pressure air, nitrogen and booster solutions are used to verify pipeline integrity and identify potential leaks before commissioning or restarting operations.
Nitrogen purging and inerting
Nitrogen is used to safely remove oxygen and combustible gases from pipelines before maintenance, repairs, shutdowns and commissioning activities.
Pipeline commissioning
Compressed air and nitrogen play a key role during commissioning by supporting cleaning, drying, testing and line preparation before a pipeline enters service.
Pipeline maintenance and integrity management
Regular maintenance activities help ensure safe and reliable pipeline operation throughout the asset lifecycle. Air and nitrogen solutions support a wide range of inspection and maintenance programs.
Download our e-guide: Compressed air and nitrogen for oil and gas industry
Customer testimonial: A pipeline success with Atlas Copco
Pipeline inspection with Atlas Copco's DrillAir portable air compressor and B18TT booster
- Reliable and consistent air flow for safe pipeline testing
- Reduced downtime thanks to robust performance
- Greater mobility in remote and rugged environments
Read more about how Romania’s pipeline project succeeded with Atlas Copco’s portable air solutions.
In environments like Constanța, you need machines that don’t flinch. We’ve pushed the DrillAir V28 and B18TT to their limits—and they’ve delivered every time. From cold mornings to hot afternoons, their performance stays consistent. That kind of reliability helps us meet safety standards and stay on schedule.
Learn more about the right air and nitrogen solution in the oil and gas industry
Key equipment requirements for pipeline services
1. Reliable airflow and pressure
Different pipeline activities require specific airflow and pressure levels. Selecting the appropriate compressor and booster combination is essential for maximizing operational efficiency.
2. Dry, contaminant-free air
For drying, testing and commissioning activities, air quality is critical. Effective air treatment helps protect pipeline integrity and ensures compliance with project specifications.
3. On-site nitrogen generation
Producing nitrogen on-site eliminates the need for delivered gas, reduces logistics complexity and provides a continuous supply of nitrogen at the required purity for inerting, purging and testing operations.
4. Mobility and flexibility
Pipeline projects often move between locations and operate in remote areas. Portable equipment provides the flexibility required to support changing site requirements.
Frequently asked questions about pipeline services
What are pipeline services?
Pipeline services include activities such as pigging, drying, pressure testing, inerting, commissioning, maintenance and integrity management that help ensure safe and reliable pipeline operation.
Why is nitrogen used in pipeline operations?
Nitrogen is an inert gas used for purging, inerting, leak testing and drying activities where safety and contamination control are critical.
What is pipeline pigging?
Pipeline pigging involves sending a device, known as a pig, through a pipeline to clean, inspect, separate products or remove debris from the system.
Why is pipeline drying important?
Residual moisture can lead to corrosion, operational issues and product contamination. Proper drying helps protect pipeline assets and ensures the pipeline is ready for safe and reliable operation.
What equipment do I need for a pigging operation?
A typical pigging setup includes a portable air compressor for propulsion, a desiccant dryer for moisture control, a booster for high-pressure requirements, and a nitrogen generator for inerting or purging. The exact configuration depends on pipeline specifications, pig type, and operational goals. Expert guidance is key to selecting the right combination of equipment for safe and efficient pigging.
