Abstract: A system for storing pigs and launching them into a pipeline comprises a pig storage barrel having an inlet end and an outlet end and an inside diameter sized to accommodate the pigs, the storage barrel including a pig parking chamber for controlling release of the pigs, and a pig launching chamber downstream of the storage barrel. The launching chamber is connected to the pipeline so as to be able to launch a pig into the pipeline. The apparatus also includes a hydraulic pig advancing system in fluid communication with the storage barrel and the launching chamber and a fluid flush system in fluid communication with the storage barrel chamber and the launching chamber. The method includes flushing the storage barrel and the launching chamber after each launching cycle so that between launchings the system is filled with hydraulic fluid.

Abstract: A system for storing pigs and launching them into a pipeline comprises a pig storage barrel having an inlet end and an outlet end and an inside diameter sized to accommodate the pigs, the storage barrel including a pig parking chamber for controlling release of the pigs, and a pig launching chamber downstream of the storage barrel. The launching chamber is connected to the pipeline so as to be able to launch a pig into the pipeline. The apparatus also includes a hydraulic pig advancing system in fluid communication with the storage barrel and the launching chamber and a fluid flush system in fluid communication with the storage barrel chamber and the launching chamber. The method includes flushing the storage barrel and the launching chamber after each launching cycle so that between launchings the system is filled with hydraulic fluid.

Abstract: A system for supplying pigs to a subsea pig launcher using a system carried and controlled by a remotely operated vehicle. The pigs are carried in racks that hold multiple pigs. The racks are extended and the pigs are allowed to drop into the barrel of the subsea pig launcher. The system is also equipped with a system that retracts the racks if hydraulic and electrical power is lost during the reloading process so that the remotely operated vehicle can be retrieved to the surface safely. The reloading process can be carried out by a remotely operated vehicle support vessel without the need for heavy lifting equipment or a large deck area.