Expro Launches Velonix®, Intelligent Automation for Pipeline Pigging Operations

Expro has launched Velonix®, an optimized pipeline pig control system that automatically controls pig velocity to help reduce re-runs, improve inspection data quality and enhance safety across low, high and no‑flow pipeline environments.

Velonix® addresses long‑standing challenges in conventional pigging operations by combining state‑of‑the‑art SONAR measurement with automated closed‑loop flow control. Using a non‑intrusive, clamp‑on SONAR meter to continuously measure pig velocity, the system automatically adjusts pipeline flow through a digitally controlled skid to maintain pigs within the optimal velocity window throughout the run.

By automating and stabilizing pigging operations, Velonix® reduces manual intervention while improving inspection data quality, operational reliability and safety performance.

For operators, Velonix® solves one of the most persistent challenges in pigging operations: maintaining consistent pig velocity when pipeline flow conditions are variable, constrained or absent. By removing reliance on manual adjustment, the system reduces operational uncertainty, helps prevent inspection failures caused by speed excursions and avoids the need for costly and disruptive re‑runs, enabling customers to complete pipeline integrity campaigns more efficiently and with greater confidence.

“Pig velocity is one of the most critical factors in successful pigging operations, and Velonix® provides operators precise, automated control over it,” said Andrei Ion, Vice President of Well Flow Management at Expro. “After extension field testing, Velonix® has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver smooth, stable pig runs across a range of pipeline environments, maintaining target velocities, avoiding speed excursions and eliminating the need for costly re‑runs, increasing the reliability of pipeline intervention through data intelligent services.”

The introduction of Velonix® reinforces Expro’s continued investment in intelligent automation and digital technologies to improve the safety and environmental performance of pipeline integrity operations.

Expro Senior Technical Sales Manager, Andrew McNiel, will present the paper, 'Development of Velonix® by Expro’ at the International Pipeline Conference & Expo in Calgary, September 21–25.