Above Ground Markers (AGMs) for Pipeline Pig Tracking
Web-Based Pig Tracking System
The Propipe APEX system has changed the way that pig tracking operations are conducted. Through a combination of rugged, field proven above ground marker (AGM) hardware, and innovative PigView software platforms, the APEX system sets the standard for ultra-reliable, accurate, and easy to use pig tracking and data collection.
Our autonomous above ground markers (AGM) enable real-time remote tracking of pigs with EM transmitters, permanent magnets, or acoustically with a geophone input. Get real time passage information, live geophone audio, or historical records at any time.
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The Propipe North America Above Ground Marker (AGM) Product Family
The APEX system is made up of 3 key elements:
Field-proven APEX AGMs
Rugged, ultra-reliable above ground markers
PigView software
Our innovative, customer focused software to track, monitor and analyze pig run data.
Best in class support
Technical support, pig run setup support, and deployment advice to maximize pig run efficiency.
Integrated with PigView Software Suite
Built for seamless integration with APEX AGMs, PigView centralizes pigging data from the field to the office, allowing users to monitor multiple above ground markers through a single, secure online interface.
With PigView, teams can:
- Monitor pig runs in real time
- Review historical pig passage data
- Manage multiple AGMs from a centralized interface
- Support consistent reporting across pipeline integrity programs
What is an Above Ground Marker (AGM)?
An Above Ground Marker is a surface-deployed pipeline monitoring device used to detect pigs as they travel through a pipeline. AGMs identify signals generated by pigs equipped with EM transmitters or other detectable sources and timestamp each passage for validation and analysis.
Accurate pig passage data is essential for effective pipeline integrity management. Propipe AGMs are designed to integrate directly with pipeline monitoring software, enabling:
- Time-synchronized pig passage confirmation
- Reduced false positives in noisy environments
- Centralized visibility across field and office teams
- Improved traceability and audit confidence
When paired with PigView Software Suite, AGM data becomes part of a connected pipeline integrity management software workflow, supporting both real-time operations and post-run analysis.
A Complete AGM Solution for Pipeline Monitoring
Propipe North America’s Above Ground Markers (AGMs) are built to support the full lifecycle of pipeline pig tracking – from field deployment to data-driven integrity decisions.
To learn more about the AGM platform or explore the right model for your operation, contact Propipe North America and request a demo today.
Above Ground Markers (AGMs): Common Questions Answered
An above ground marker (AGM) is a portable device placed on the ground over a buried pipeline that detects a pig passing underneath and records the exact time. AGMs pick up the pig’s electromagnetic transmitter, a permanent magnet, or pig sound through a geophone. Each passage is timestamped, confirming the run and locating stuck pigs.
On the ground directly above the pipeline at planned checkpoints along the pig’s route. Spacing depends on how precisely the operator needs to confirm progress or narrow down a stuck pig.
Propipe’s APEX AGMs detect EM transmitters (22 Hz and 10–30 Hz), permanent magnets, and pig sound through an external geophone. Using more than one method improves detection in difficult conditions.
Yes. APEX AGMs send passages over LTE, with optional Iridium satellite where there is no cell coverage. If the signal drops, data is stored on the unit and synced later. All markers show on one PigView Web dashboard.
They combine magnetic, electromagnetic and geophone sensing, and PigView’s machine learning filters separate real pig passages from interference such as power lines, equipment and vehicles.
Up to 144 hours in active mode and 400 hours in low-power mode on six D-cell batteries. Actual runtime depends on temperature, cell coverage and electromagnetic conditions. External power is also supported.