One of Australia’s leading pipeline integrity and maintenance contractors, Pipe Tek, has unveiled a new trailer designed to address the challenges faced in mining operations.
Dubbing it as a revolutionary development, Pipe Tek said that the reliability of pipeline infrastructure is critical in mining and resources, whether it’s moving water, slurry, tailings, or process fluids, exactly where this trailer comes into play.
Harsh conditions, abrasive materials and remote locations make inspection and maintenance a constant challenge.
Pipe Tek’s new inline inspection (ILI) pig trailer addresses many of these hurdles, delivering a faster, safer and more efficient way to keep pipelines performing.
Launched in October 2025 at the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) Convention in Brisbane, it was first introduced during the event and during the company’s 10th anniversary celebrations.
Developed from insights gained through more than a decade on-site, the design of the trailer reflects the company’s practical understanding of what works in the field, addressing real-world challenges it faces every day.
The trailer is equipped with a technologically advanced laboratory, meaning data gathered from in-line inspection (ILI) runs can be reviewed while the pigs are actively navigating a pipeline.
The ability to analyse data immediately on site also facilitates quicker decision-making on the next steps, whether that means continuing operations, performing targeted digs, or scheduling repairs.
Pipe Tek managing director Myles Brannelly said the laboratory will also reduce downtime, improve accuracy and give greater flexibility on-site.
“In some cases, pipelines can be out of service while inspection data is reviewed. If this is done off-site then it can delay the reporting phase, and ultimately cost the operator money,” he said.
“The trailer will allow us to verify anomalies in the pipeline in real-time, which we believe will reduce the risk of misinterpretation.
“When the data is available instantly, our team can work with pipeline engineers, contractors and the asset owner to interpret results, and develop a plan immediately.
“It will also mean our crews can adapt inspection plans on the fly, or re-run pigs in specific sections based on what they’re seeing in the data.”
The custom-designed trailer also features a built-in crane, meaning a separate winch, truck, or trailer-mounted crane isn’t required to lift the ILI tool.
Inspection pigs vary in weight, depending on the diameter of the pipeline and the configuration of the tool, but some can weigh more than a tonne.
Built to handle the tough environments, Pipe Tek’s work takes the company and the trailer’s rugged design, to ensure it can travel long distances and operate in remote and often demanding conditions.
“When you’re hundreds, or sometimes thousands, of kilometres away from a town or city, the reliability and durability of our gear is essential,” Brannelly said.
“With our recent expansion into Western Australia, it’s feasible that the trailer might have to be able to withstand a more than 4,000 km journey, so we’ve incorporated that into the design.”
For more information visit the www.pipetek.com.au
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