Abstract: Disclosed is a pipe wiper device and system for stripping fluid from the external surface of tubular articles being pulled from the wellhead of a well. The wiper device includes a container having a carriage movably mounted therein. A pair of wiper pad assemblies are carried by the carriage and movable inwardly and outwardly with respect to each other. A pair of opposed actuators are provided for moving the wiper pad assemblies inward and outward with respect to each other and the connection between the wiper pad assemblies and actuators is such that the wiper pad assemblies and carriage are movable perpendicular to the direction of actuation of the actuators thereby to accommodate sideways movement of the carriage. The actuators are operated by a system that automatically retracts the wiper pad assemblies responsive to rig standpipe pressure so that the wiper pad assemblies retract automatically during drilling.