Potential applications of foam pig technology in cleaning oil and gas pipelines in Vietnam

Wax, asphaltene and solid deposition in infield oil and gas pipelines is a major cause of increased pressure loss, reduced throughput and operational risks. In Vietnam, many infield pipelines were constructed decades ago without pig launching and receiving facilities or exhibit complex geometries, which limits the applicability of conventional mechanical pigging techniques. This paper presents the scientific basis, international research overview and field-test-based assessment of the applicability of Foam Pig technology for oil and gas pipeline cleaning in Vietnam. Based on a critical review of representative international studies, the paper summarizes major technological advances, advantages and remaining technical challenges associated with Foam Pig application in non-piggable pipelines. Particular emphasis is placed on the analysis of industrial trial data obtained from the MSP-A → MSP-B pipeline at the Bach Ho field. The experimental results are interpreted using the Herschel–Bulkley rheological model to clarify the influence of key operating parameters, including driving pressure, gas injection rate and gel rheological properties, on Foam Pig movement stability and cleaning efficiency. The results indicate that, when an appropriate rheological operating window and driving regime are selected, Foam Pig can travel stably through pipeline bends, maintain sufficient circumferential sealing, and achieve wax removal efficiency exceeding 90%, while being fully recovered without structural damage. By integrating theoretical analysis, field trial results and international experience, this study proposes a technical evaluation framework for assessing the applicability of Foam Pig technology to infield pipelines under Vietnamese operating conditions. In addition, a group of candidate pipelines suitable for Foam Pig application is identified. The findings provide a scientific basis for the standardization and wider deployment of Foam Pig technology in Vietnam’s oil and gas industry.

How to Cite

Nguyen, T.Van, Le, D.Quang, Nguyen, L.Khac, To, T.Huu, Nguyen, D.Quoc and Vu, T.Viet 2026. Potential applications of foam pig technology in cleaning oil and gas pipelines in Vietnam (in Vietnamese). Journal of Mining and Earth Sciences. 67, 3 (Jun, 2026), 131-139. DOI:https://doi.org/10.46326/JMES.2026.67(3).11.

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