The Inertial Geometry Pig (IGP) provides pipeline operators with threedimensional geographic and geometric information of their pipeline.

The IMU contains three orthogonal ring laser gyroscopes, known to be the most accurate, stable and rugged gyroscopic devices, combined with three orthogonal inertial accelerometers to create an inertial strap-down system. Starting from a known position, determined by Differential GPS, the IMU is able to determine its present position and orientation at any time with the slightest error possible. Comparing the result of an inspection with previous runs or as built information, will reveal any pipeline movement that has taken place.

Not only will the pig detect and accurately measure pipeline defects like buckles, dents, wrinkles, ovalities, liquid slugs, bend radii, misalignments; based on the data of the extremely stable and accurate IMU, information about the profile of the pipeline can be obtained. This helps to determine pipeline curvature and bending strain in the pipe wall due to movement in geotechnically unstable areas such as river crossings, slope instabilities, mining areas, or marine environment.
Furthermore this technology is beneficial to pipelines that have suffered from temperature cycling or 3rd party interference. The IGP complements or replaces the use of strain gauges and monitoring rods, or even provides data about pipeline movement where usage of strain gauges is not practically possible.