How to Choose an Industrial Pipeline Cleaning Method
When a city is tasked with the maintenance of its water pipelines, ensuring top system performance is crucial. Naturally, there are various factors that can impact the performance of municipal water pipelines throughout their use.
Factors, such as the cleanliness of the pipeline, can result in changes in the overall system performance of water and force mains. In other words, you might experience low flow or changes in water quality when your pipelines begin to build up debris.
When dealing with issues such as these, you want to find the right pipeline cleaning methods that are effective and reasonably priced. In this case, you want to learn if pigging, for example, is the right solution that fits your needs and your budget.
By and large, knowing how to choose a cleaning method can seem daunting due to the many solution options available.
To help you get started, we’ve put together key information on how to choose an industrial pipe cleaning method that’s right for you.
How Do You Know When a Pipeline Needs Cleaning?
It might not always be obvious when your pipelines are due for cleaning, but the signs tend to build up over time. One of the earliest indicators is reduced flow or water pressure, which often points to accumulating debris inside the system.
You may also notice unusual odors or a change in water taste—both signs that organic material or biofilm could be present. Visible sediment or blockages, especially near outlets or access points, are another red flag. If you observe corrosion or wear on the pipes, it's a clear indication that the internal condition of your pipeline is deteriorating.
Additionally, system alerts or increased strain on pumps should not be ignored, as they often reflect underlying performance issues. Altogether, these signs suggest your system’s efficiency is compromised and that pipeline cleaning is the next necessary step.
How to Choose a Pipeline Cleaning Method
Identify Your Problem
It may seem simple, but your first step needs to be identifying your problem. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need all the finer details of your problem at this point.
Let’s use one of our previous scenarios of a pipe that has low flow as an example. Originally, the flow of your pipeline was at a certain level. Now, the flow is much lower than normal.
In this scenario, the issue of low flow is likely being caused by something obstructing the flow in your pipelines.
Now that you know your pipelines are dirty, which is likely causing your low flow, you want to get that flow back up.
Analyze Different Pigging & Pipeline Cleaning Methodologies
As we shared before, there are a plethora of different pipeline cleaning methods. While there is only one way to pig, there are other cleaning methods that aren’t pigging but use the term.
Each method for industrial pipe cleaning has different pros and cons to consider.
However, to illustrate how to choose a cleaning method, we will cover the three main approaches you’ll likely see.
1. Flushing
This methodology is one of the more basic ways of cleaning your pipelines. In fact, this is a method you can do on your own.
As the name suggests, flushing your pipes is when you turn your water pumps up, pumping out the maximum amount of water.
This method is used to knock loose general debris that might be in a pipe.
While this method can help with less difficult debris, it can’t tackle solidified dirt and debris, which can be the case.
So, if you’ve tried flushing out your pipes and it didn’t solve your issue, you’re next option is likely pigging.
2. Ice Pigging™
This type of cleaning is a newer form of technology that has become more common.
Instead of the typical solid foam pig, this pigging method uses an ice slurry. As this slurry goes through your pipes, it tackles lighter debris.
Ice Pigging™ is appropriate for cleaning out debris, like built-up biofilm, that doesn’t need a tougher cleaning method.
While Ice Pigging™ is faster than traditional pigging, it is not the ideal solution for most major issues in your pipeline. Thus, if you use Ice Pigging™, you’ll likely end up using it more often, which will cost you more in the long run.
3. Traditional Pigging and Swabbing
The traditional pigging and swabbing method, unlike the previously described pipeline cleaning methods, uses a solid foam pig.
By and large, traditional pigging is the most comprehensive methodology when it comes to tackling tough pipeline debris.
Why?
First, your pipelines are swabbed. Swabbing is an important initial step in pigging because it helps determine the degree of debris in the pipeline.
The initial swabbing pig is a soft, sponge-like foam pig that is extremely malleable. This malleability is beneficial for the pig as it makes its way through your pipes. Not only can the pig bend as needed through your pipes, but it also helps prevent the pig from becoming lodged.
As this initial pig encounters the debris in your pipe, it’ll either bend around the debris or break apart in more difficult cases.
When the initial pig comes out of the pipeline, it is known as a “prover pig.” Essentially, this prover pig lets your pigging experts know how tough the debris in the pipeline is.
Next, the pigs that go into your pipeline slowly progress towards denser foam pigs. As the pig gets denser, it is better able to tackle debris that has solidified or adhered to your pipeline.
This process is continued until your pipelines are free from debris.
4. Hydro-Jetting
Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water jets to blast away buildup inside the pipeline. It’s highly effective when paired with specialized nozzles or rotating heads that can target debris more precisely.
This method is best used for grease, mineral scaling, and other tough internal deposits. It’s often applied to short or medium-length pipeline sections and is suitable for pipes that can handle high water pressure. However, hydro-jetting is not recommended for older or more fragile pipelines, as the intensity of the pressure could cause damage if not carefully controlled.
5. Chemical Cleaning
Chemical cleaning involves injecting specialized solutions—typically acids or alkaline agents—into pipelines to dissolve and remove buildup. Agents like phosphoric acid are used for rust removal, while caustic soda may be employed for organic deposits.
This method is often chosen when dealing with rust, internal scaling, or heavily compromised pipelines that require a deep clean. However, chemical cleaning requires strict environmental compliance and expert handling to prevent harm to the pipeline and the surrounding environment. It also tends to be more time-consuming and costly than other approaches.
6. Steam Blowing
Steam blowing is a process where high-pressure steam is forced through the pipeline to clean and sterilize its interior. This technique is generally reserved for high-temperature industrial applications.
It’s commonly used in oil and gas systems, heavy industrial pipelines, and systems that require sterilization before use, particularly during pre-commissioning of new lines. Despite its effectiveness, steam blowing demands a significant amount of energy, involves complex equipment, and requires experienced technicians to carry out the procedure safely and successfully.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cleaning Method
With several industrial pipeline cleaning methods available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. However, making an informed decision starts with understanding the specific needs of your system. Below are the key factors to evaluate before selecting a method.
Pipeline Material
The composition of your pipeline plays a major role in determining the appropriate cleaning approach. For metal pipelines—such as those made from steel or iron—methods like pigging, hydro-jetting, or chemical cleaning can be highly effective. These materials are typically more durable and can withstand the intensity of more aggressive cleaning methods. In contrast, plastic or composite pipelines are generally less tolerant of harsh treatment. In these cases, lower-pressure solutions like Ice Pigging™ or precisely calibrated hydro-jetting offer safer and more controlled results.
Pipeline Diameter
The size of your pipeline is another important factor. Large-diameter pipelines often benefit from techniques like pigging or steam blowing, which can cover a wider internal surface and handle large volumes of debris. For smaller-diameter pipelines, methods such as flushing or Ice Pigging™ are typically more effective. These approaches provide targeted cleaning without overwhelming the system or risking unnecessary pressure buildup.
Type of Debris
Different cleaning methods are designed to address different types of debris. If your system is affected by softer buildup—such as biofilm or loose sediment—methods like flushing or Ice Pigging™ may be sufficient. For tougher deposits like grease, mineral scale, or rust, you’ll likely need more intensive methods such as traditional pigging, hydro-jetting, or chemical treatments. Matching the cleaning technique to the nature of the debris ensures both effectiveness and efficiency.
The Pipeline Cleaning Process: What to Expect
To get a clearer idea of what pipeline cleaning involves, here’s a quick breakdown of the four main steps:
Inspection: Use video inspection or ultrasonic tools to assess buildup.
Method Selection: Choose the method that matches your pipeline’s needs.
Cleaning Execution: Shut down and isolate sections if needed, then deploy pigs, jets, or chemicals.
Post-Cleaning Verification: Re-inspect to confirm results. Repeat if debris remains.
Why Work With American Pipeline Solutions?
With over 100 years of combined experience, American Pipeline Solutions is North America’s longest-standing continuous pigging company. Our team has supported municipalities, industrial clients, and water districts with expert pipeline cleaning solutions designed for lasting impact.
We offer:
Proven pigging and swabbing solutions
Consulting to help you identify the right method
Full-service cleaning for water mains, wastewater systems, and more
Compliance with all safety and environmental guidelines
Need help assessing your pipeline’s condition or unsure which method fits best? Let’s talk.
Consult With Top Industry Experts at American Pipeline Solutions
With over 100 years of combined experience, American Pipeline Solutions is North America’s oldest continuous pigging company.
In those 100 years, American Pipeline Solutions has provided clients with comprehensive services for their water mains, wastewater, and overall pipeline integrity needs.
In addition to these services, we at American Pipeline Solutions offer consulting services to clients in need. When called in, we assess the client’s problems and use our expertise to recommend the best pigging solution.
Final Thoughts
Debris buildup in pipelines may seem like a small issue, but if left unaddressed, it can lead to major problems—reduced efficiency, safety hazards, or expensive downtime. Whether it’s light sediment or hardened scale, there’s a method that’s right for your system.
If you’re ready to improve performance and extend the lifespan of your pipelines, reach out to American Pipeline Solutions for expert support and a customized cleaning plan that works for your system and your budget.
Contact American Pipeline Solutions today to request a quote and learn more about the pigging services we can provide.
