IWCF Participant Guide - 09jan13.pdf - Protected

International Well
Control Forum
Participant Guide
Table of Contents
Fundamentals Well Control Equipment

• Geology Basics • Stack Configuration
• Normal and Abnormal Pressure • Diverters
• Annular Preventers
• Ram Preventers
Primary Well Control • Stack Connections, Gaskets, and Ring Grooves
• Hydrostatic Pressure • Valves
• Drilling Fluid Functions • Accumulator and Control System
• Pressure and U-tube Concept • Standpipe & Choke Manifolds
• Circulating System Pressure • Mud Gas Separator
• Leak-off Tests • Degasser
• MAASP
Subsea Well Control Issues
• Shallow Water Flows
Kicks & Containments
• Shallow Hole Kicks
• Causes of Kicks
• Drilling Riserless
• Warning Signs
• Subsea Concerns
• Positive Indicators
• Gas in the Riser
• Kicks while Tripping
• Riser Collapse/Disconnect
• Slugs and Trip Sheets
• Hydrates
• Well Shut-In Procedures
• Choke Line Friction
• Gas Behavior
• Drillstring
• Shallow Hazards
• Shallow Gas
• Diverts Subsea Procedures
• Pressures at the Shoe • Shut-in Procedure
• Pump Start-up
• Stack Gas Clearing
Well Control Methods
• Driller’s Method
• Wait & Weight
Subsea Equipment
• Pressure Profiles • Bop’s
• Horizontal Well Control • Fail Safe Valves
• Controlling Gas Expansion • Marine Riser System
• Drillpipe Pressure Method • Subsea Control Systems
• Volumetric • Subsea Accumulator
• Stripping • Gaskets
• Bullheading
Appendix
Complications and Solutions • Introduction
• Slow Pump Pressure • API Information Accumulator Guide
• Formulas
• Float in Drillstring
• Surface BOP Equipment & Controls Study
• Partial Lost Circulation
Guide
• Choke Problems • Subsea Bop Equipment & Control Study Guide
Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 1

Fundamentals

Basic Geology
Formation Lithology: Downhole Rock Types
Shales, Clays, and

Siltstones
Sandstone
Carbonates Such As
Lim e, Chalk, Gyp,
and Dolom ite
Salt Dom es or
Stringers
Typical formation
types commonly
drilled
Lithology comes from the word lithosphere, which is the technical term for the Earth’s
outer layer. Lithology describes the formation types contained within the lithosphere.
Sedimentation

Geology Basics
Porosity
Porosity –
• The “pore” spaces within the

rock matrix
• Measured in % by volume –
what percentage of a rock
actually isn’t rock
Permeability
Permeability is the capacity of a porous

medium to transmit fluids.
• A permeability of 1 Darcy will allow flow

across a unit cube of 1 cc per second
of a liquid of 1 centipoise viscosity.
When the pressure drop across the Flow
cube is 1 atmosphere.
• A more convenient unit for oil well use
is the millidarcy = .001 Darcies.

Normal and Abnormal Pressure
Pore Pressure
Pore pressure is the pressure of the naturally
occurring fluids within the earth.
• Normal formation pore pressure is equal

to the hydrostatic pressure of water
extending from the surface to the
subsurface formation of interest. Thus,
the normal pressure in any area will be
equal to the hydrostatic pressure of the
water occupying the pore spaces of the
formations in that area. Usually, since
the water present is marine in nature the
normal pore pressure is that of a column
of seawater.
• Subnormal formation pore pressure is

any formation pressure that is less then
the corresponding pore fluid hydrostatic
pressure.
• Abnormal pore pressure is defined as a pore pressure greater than normal.

Abnormal pore pressure is often called surpressure, overpressure, and sometimes,
geopressure. The upper limit of pore pressure is the weight of the overburden.
Normal Pore Pressure

Seal or Caprock (Under Compacted Shale)
Sedimentation and
Subsidence Process
Salt Beds
Salt beds can also serve as a sealing mechanism. When salt is deposited
and buried, it forms an impermeable barrier against natural fluid upward
migration. But when salt is exposed to extreme pressure and temperature it
becomes pseudo-plastic in nature and offers little support to the overlying
formations. Consequently it transmits much of the overburden to underlying
permeable formations.

Diapirism (Salt Dome)
Pressure Distribution - Salt Dome
Uplift and Erosion

In uplift and erosion, a formation has been raised, through tectonic activity, to a
lesser depth than originally deposited. Although the formation pressure may not be
great, for its depth it is abnormally pressured if formations fluids do not escape. The
uplift may be visible on the surface in the form of rolling hills or the like, or erosion
may have worn surface features to local topography masking the past geological
events.

Artesian Flow
The rig at left, although penetrating the same formation, finds no abnormal
pressure. But the rig at right, at a lower elevation, encounters abnormal pressure
due to the hydrostatic difference between the outcropping of the formation and the
location and depth it is penetrated. This is not uncommon in mountainous areas.
Although an artesian system is usually associated with fresh water horizons, they
are known to be the drive source for some shallow fields.
Abnormal Pore Pressure Gas Cap

Another source of abnormal pressure is a volume of gas “capping” or residing at the
top of a permeable interval - the permeable interval contains not only the gas, but
possibly oil and/or water, with the two fluids segregating according to density. Many
times the gas cap is the driving mechanism for the production of underlying oil. The
reason for the abnormal pressure is the difference in natural hydrostatics.
Consider the drawing at

left. Gas residing atop
liquids in a permeable
formation. All three fluids
in this permeable section
are capped by a layer of
impermeable rock.

Primary
Well Control

Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic Pressure & Pressure Gradient

Hydrostatic Pressure Provides Primary Well Control
A column of fluid at rest exerts “hydrostatic” pressure within the fluid column.
Hydrostatic pressure is dependent on the fluid weight and vertical depth to the point of
interest.
HP = 0.052 x FW x TVD
HP - psi
FW (Fluid Weight) - ppg
TVD - feet MW – 12 ppg
9 5/8” @
8500 ft TVD
12,000 TVD
Pressure Gradient
The pressure gradient (also called fluid gradient) is the
hydrostatic pressure exerted by one vertical foot of a
fluid of a given weight.
Example
What is the hydrostatic pressure gradient of 12.0
ppg fluid?
Gradient = .052 x 12 = 0.624 psi/ft
What is the hydrostatic pressure at the casing

shoe?
HP @ shoe = .624 x 8500 = 5304 psi
What is the bottom-hole hydrostatic pressure?

HP @ TVD = .624 x 12000 = 7488 psi

Drilling Fluid Functions
Functions of Drilling Fluids

• Remove cuttings from wellbore.
• Provide hydrostatic pressure – well control.
• Transmit hydraulic horsepower to bit.
• Cool and lubricate drillstring and bit.
• Safe to personnel and the environment.
• Provide a wall cake.
• Provide information about the well.
• Prevent corrosion.
• Provide data transmission for MWD tools.
Types of Drilling Fluids
Water Based Fluids
• Fresh water based
• Salt water based
Oil Based Fluids
• Oil based
• Diesel based
• Refined diesel oils
• Synthetic oil

Drilling Fluid Functions
Properties of Drilling Fluids

It is conducive to have a basic working knowledge of drilling fluids.
The basic characteristics of most common drilling fluids are as
follows:
Density
Density is simply a measure of the weight of the fluid according to a certain volume,
such as pounds per gallon. The density of drilling fluids is most often determined with
the use of a mud balance.
Viscosity
Viscosity is the measure of the ‘thickness’ of the drilling fluid. This ‘dynamic’ property
is due to the amount of inert (not reacting with water) solids contained in the mud.
These may be commercially prepared and added as well as drilled up solids that have
become incorporated in the mud.
Viscosity is usually measured in two ways. Funnel viscosity can be checked using a
Marsh Funnel and recording the time required for a quart of the fluid to flow through the
funnel. This is only a relative measure of the viscosity. More time through the funnel is
correlative to a more viscous fluid and vice versa. The test assigns no quantitative value
to the viscosity other than seconds per quart.
The second means of checking viscosity is with a Rotational Viscometer and is normally
performed by the mud engineer. The unit of measure for this ‘plastic viscosity’ is
centipoise.
Yield Point
Another dynamic property of drilling fluids is yield point. This is determined by another
test performed by the mud engineer and is a measure of the dynamic surface tension of
the mud. The unit of measure for this property is pounds per 100 square feet.
Gel Strength
Gel strength is measured in the same unit of measure as yield point but indicates the
quality of the static surface tension of the mud, or how well it can suspend solids when
the mud is not in motion.
Gas Solubility in Oil Based Muds
Drilling muds use either water or oil as the primary liquid phase. When oil muds are
used, the crew needs to be particularly aware of the potential for gas solubility. Natural
gas will go into solution in oil based muds - more so in diesel based than synthetic
based. The inherent problem with this is noticed as gas-laden mud is circulated to the
surface. Very near the surface the gas reaches ‘bubble point’ and the gas flashes out
of the mud resulting in a drastic increase in the outflow from the well. If the crew does
not react to this in a very timely fashion, a great deal of hydrostatic can be lost in a short
period of time – This often results in a kick.

Pressure and U-Tube Concept
Equivalent Fluid (Mud) Weight

If the pressure is known, it can be described at a depth of interest as an “equivalent
fluid weight.”
Example: What is the equivalent mud weight of a producing reservoir

having 8,500 psi pressure at a depth of 14,000 ft TVD / 16,000 ft TMD.
Pressure 8,500
Equivalent Fluid Weight (ppge) = = = 11.68 ~ 11.7 ppge
(0.052 x TVD) (0.052 x 14,000)
Note:
Oilfield units for fluid or mud weight is typically expressed as ppg (pounds per gallon).
Fresh water for example has a weight of 8.33 ppg. Normal Gulf of Mexico seawater, due
to the salt content, would weigh about 8.5 ppg.
Many materials used in the oilfield are also expressed in terms of their Specific Gravity
(SG). For example, barite has a SG of about 4.2. To determine what this is in ppg terms
you must multiply the SG by the weight of fresh water since fresh water has an SG of
1.0.
A barrel of barite would weigh 4.2 gm/cc x 8.33ppg x 42gal = 1470 lbs
U-Tube Concept
In almost all cases of well work, the hydrostatic pressures associated with the fluids in
the well can be represented as a “U-tube” with one leg of the tube representing the
drillpipe or workstring and the other leg representing the annulus.

U-Tube Exercise 1
Pshoe – MW x 0.052 x Hmud =

– (12 ppg x 0.052 x 7,000 ft) =
5,149 psi – 0.624 x 7,000 ft =
5,149 psi – 4,368 psi
781 psi SICP
BHP – Hinflux x Ginflux – Hmud x 0.052 x MW =

8,112 psi - (12,000 ft – 11,700 ft) x 0.1 psi/ft -
(11,700 ft– 7,000 ft) x 0.052 x 12 ppg =
8,112 - (300 ft) x 0.1 psi/ft – (4,700 ft) x 0.624 psi/ft =
8,112 - 30 psi – 2,932.8 psi =
5,149 psi Casing Shoe
MW x 0.052 X TVD + SIDPP =

12 ppg x 0.052 x 12,000 ft + 624 psi =
0.624 x 12,000 ft + 624 psi =
7,488 psi + 624 psi =
8,112 psi BHP

U-Tube Exercise 2

5,647 psi – (12 ppg x 0.052 x 7,000 ft) =
5,647 psi – 0.624 x 7,000 ft =
5,647 psi – 4,368 psi
1,279 psi SICP
BHP – Hmud x 0.052 x MW – Hinflux x Ginflux =

8,112 - (12,000 ft – 8,250 ft) x 0.052 x 12 ppg -
(8,250 ft – 7,000 ft) x 0.1 psi/ft =
8,112 – (3,750 ft) x 0.624 psi/ft – (1,250 ft) x 0.1 psi/ft =
8,112 – 2340 psi – 125 psi =

12 ppg x 0.052 x 12,000 ft + 624 psi =
0.624 x 12,000 ft + 624 psi =
7,488 psi + 624 psi =
8,112 psi BHP

U-Tube Exercise 3

5,543 psi – (12 ppg x 0.052 x 7,000 ft) =
5,149 psi – 0.624 x 7,000 ft =
5,149 psi – 4,368 psi
1,175 psi SICP
BHP – HKillMud x 0.052 x KMW

– HOriginalMud x 0.052 x OMW - Hgas x Ggas =
8,112 – (12,000 ft – 10,000 ft) x 0.052 x 13 ppg –
(10,000 ft – 8,250 ft) x 0.052 x 12 ppg -
(8,250 ft – 7,000 ft) x 0.1 psi/ft =
8,112 – (2,000 ft) x 0.676 psi/ft -
(1,750 ft) x 0.624 psi/ft -
(1,250 ft) x 0.1 psi/ft =
8,112 –1,352 psi - 1,092 psi – 125 psi =

13 ppg x 0.052 x 12,000 ft + 0 psi =
0.676 x 12,000 ft + 0 psi =
8,112 psi + 0 psi =
8,112 psi BHP

Circulating System Pressure
Circulating Pressure of the Fluid

The pressure required to circulate fluid through the rig’s circulating system is a
measurement of friction losses in the system.
The factors that effect these

pressure (friction) losses are:
• Dimensions of the system:

Length, ID of drilling or work
string; hydraulic diameters of
the system; nozzles or
downhole tools, etc.
• Fluid properties:
Mud or fluid density;
rheological properties, etc.
• Fluid flowrate
The pressure on the standpipe gauge is the sum of the friction pressure losses that
occur in the circulating system. This pressure is the total system pressure loss.
These pressure losses occur in the following areas:

Surface Equipment
Drillpipe or Workstring
Drill collars
Bit nozzles or downhole tools
Annulus
Example
Surface equipment = 50 psi
Drillpipe = 800 psi
Drill collars = 150 psi
Nozzles = 1800 psi
Annulus = 200 psi
Total pressure loss = 3000 psi

Circulating System Pressure
ECD- Equivalent Circulating Density

Pump pressure is a measurement of the total friction pressure of the circulating
system, but only the annular pressure loss is applied against the wellbore. This is a
pressure in addition to that of the hydrostatic pressure. Converting the annular
pressure loss to ppge and adding this value to the mud/fluid weight yields the
Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD).
Example:
Calculate the ECD for the well info given.
= 12.32 ~ 12.4 ppge
Slow Circulating Rate Pressure (SCRP)

The slow pump pressure is used as a reference pressure when circulating kicks from
the well.
REMEMBER!!
Circulating pressure is the sum of all the friction pressures associated with the
circulating system flow path.
When the well is “shut-in” and circulation is through the choke, the choke is used to
apply “controlling” pressure to the formation. The amount of choke back pressure
can be determined by knowing the slow pump pressure for the system.
Slow Pump Pressure should be measured:
• Each tour.
• After any mud weight change.
• Every 500 ft. of new hole drilled.
• After each BHA change or trip.

• After any significant change in mud
properties type.

Circulation System Pressure
Slow Circulating Rate Pressure (SCRP)

Slow circulating rates will be used during well control operations and should be pre-
determined and based on the following factors:
• Rig’s barite mixing capability
• ECD on open hole
• Reaction time for choke operator
• Pump and pressure limitations
• Capacity of mud gas separator
• Choke line friction pressure (floaters)
• Record on gauge to be used during kill
Friction Pressure vs. Circulating Rate
Fluid Weight Changes

Friction pressure increases exponentially to the circulating rate. This means that if the
circulating rate doubles, there would be a fourfold increase in the corresponding
circulating pressure.
Friction pressure changes directly with changes in the fluid weight. This means that if
the weight of the fluid being circulated increases by 20 %, there would be a likewise 20
% increase in the corresponding circulating pressure.
Note:
These are two very important relationships that are used in many well control
related calculations!

Leak-Off Tests
Leak-off Test and Equivalent Mud Weight Test

Prudent drilling practices require that the formation exposed below the last
casing string be pressure tested for well control integrity. The test may be to a
specified equivalent mud weight or to the formation frac or “leak-off” test. The
results of the leak-off test dictate the maximum mud weights to be used at later
depths and may alter the planned casing for the well. The test may also indicate
the quality of the cement job.
Use cement type pump and pump slowly in small increments

(1/4 bbl). Plot on same chart as casing test.
For “jug” or equivalent mud weight test, stop pumping when
desired pressure is reached and monitor for 10 minutes.
Leak-off is indicated at the point at which pressure stops
increase is reduced.
Procedure
1.Drill out the shoe, rat hole and 10 - 15 ft of new hole.
2.Circulate the hole clean and condition the mud to a consistent density.
3.Pull the drillstring +/- 10 ft above the shoe.
4.Rig up the cement pump on the drillstring and pressure test surface
lines/system for leaks.
5.Close the annular (or ram) BOP and begin the test.
6.Maintain a constant pump rate during test (1/4 to 1 bbl/min maximum).
7.Plot pressure at each 1/4 bbl increment until test is complete.

Leak-Off Tests
Formation Integrity Test

is used to determine strength of formation and shoe by increasing Bottom Hole
Pressure (BHP) to desired pressure. FIT is normally conducted to ensure that formation
below show will not be broken while drilling the next section with higher BHP. Normally,
engineers will design how much formation integrity test pressure required in ppg.
Pressure required for FIT (psi) = (Required FIT in ppg – Current Mud Weight in ppg) x
0.052 x True Vertical Depth of shoe in ft
Example:
Required FIT (ppg) = 14.5
Current mud weight (ppg) = 9.2
Shoe depth TVD (ft) = 4000 TVD
Pressure required for FIT = (14.5-9.2) x 0.052 x 4000 = 1102 psi
Procedure
1. Drill out new formation few feet, circulate bottoms up and pull drillstring into the
casing.
2. Close annular preventer or pipe rams, line up a pump, normally a cement pump, and
circulate through an open choke line to ensure that surface line is fully filled with
drilling fluid.
3.Stop the pump and close a choke valve.
4. Gradually pump small amount of drilling fluid into well with constant pump stroke.
Record total pump strokes, drill pipe pressure and casing pressure. Pump until
casing pressure reaches the pressure required for formation integrity test. Hold
pressure for few minutes to confirm pressure.
5. Bleed off pressure and open up the well. Then proceed with drilling operation.

MAASP
Maximum Allowable Surface Pressures

Casing Burst and (MASP) Leak-Off
Shut-in well pressures can be of such magnitude as to cause downhole
complications or equipment failures. It is prudent to always monitor the surface
pressures and be aware when severe conditions exist.
The maximum allowed pressures at the surface are the casing burst and the
pressure that causes formation breakdown at the shoe (leak-off). Both should be
posted on the rig floor.
Casing burst = .7 x internal yield rating of casing
(MASP) leak-off = .052 x (LOT MW – MW) x TVD of casing shoe
Also need to know the burst rating of wellhead and burst and collapse of all
tubulars.
• Remember tension reduces collapse rating.

Kicks and
Containment

Causes of Kicks
Kick Detection
• Most kicks are unintentional and are defined as the undesired flow of formation
fluids into the wellbore. Kicks can occur intentionally as in the case of initiating
production, unseating packers after testing etc. but still need to be dealt with
prudently.
• Drilling personnel must recognize and immediately react to any well control
warning signs so that the severity of the well control incident can be minimized.
Well control severity is directly related to the volume size of the influx, making
rapid detection and shut-in of utmost importance.
• Industry-wide experience has shown that the most common causes of kicks are:
1. Swabbing during trips
2. Improper hole fill-up on trips
3. Insufficient mud/fluid weight – human error
4. Drilling into unexpected abnormal formation pressure
5. Loss of circulation
• Evidence shows that the majority of kicks occur during trips.
Swabbing
Beware of Insufficient Hole Fill-Up When Tripping
Swabbing is affected by:
• Pipe pulling speed
• Mud properties
• Annular clearance
Procedure:
1. Monitor hole fill-up on trips!
2. Limit pipe pulling and running speeds.
3. Add trip margin.
4. If swabbing is severe, consider pumping out of hole.
Warning signs of swabbing:

• Excessive overpull, drag, or torque
• Drilling in reactive formations (gumbo)
• High rheology mud properties
• Hole not taking proper fill

Causes of Kicks
Swab/Surge Pressures Caused by Pipe Motion

Causes of Kicks
Improper Hole Fill-Up During Trips

Use Trip Tanks and Document Trip Sheets
• Trip Sheets should be used to compare
actual and calculated volumes displaced.
• Trip Tanks must be accurately calibrated
and monitored by crew member.
• Hole fill-up manifolding should account for
pulling dry or “wet” pipe.
• Plan the trip – have a set schedule of
stands pulled between fill-ups, have a
sound procedure for re-filling trip tank and
transferring surface mud volumes.
EXAMPLE:
Reduction in Bottom Hole Pressure
If MW is 12.2 ppg and falls 350 ft, what is the decrease in BHP?
12.2 ppg x .052 x 350 ft = 222 psi
Insufficient Mud Weight

Causes of insufficient mud/fluid density are:
• Drilling abnormal pressured formations
• Improper water additions / leaking mud room

or pit valves
• Barite settling/SAG in high angle hole

sections
• Human Error Monitor MWs In/Out Regularly!
NOTE:
• Mud/fluid density should be checked and logged often.
• Values should be reported over rig intercom and “light” conditions should be reported
immediately.

Causes of Kicks
Loss of Circulation
Monitor Pit Levels at All
Times
• Total loss of circulation can

cause a potential loss of
hydrostatic pressure in the
wellbore.
• Loss of circulation causes

a loss of pressure integrity
in the circulating system.
• THE HOLE MUST
REMAIN FULL!
Maintaining Hydrostatic Pressure Control

Loss of circulation can be very costly and in severe cases can lead to blowouts. Drillers
should remain vigilant to fluid loss to the wellbore and excessive losses should be
prevented if possible and attempts should be made to cure the problem whenever it
occurs. Primary causes of loss of circulation are:
• Setting casing too shallow and not gaining sufficient fracture strength for the well
to tolerate planned mud weights for that interval.
• Drilling with excessive overbalance.
• Drilling too fast and the resulting cuttings load the annulus sufficiently to cause
formation failure.
• Excessive swab/surge pressures when tripping pipe.
• Hole packing off due to cuttings build-up (especially on low side of high angle
wellbores) or balled up drilling assemblies.
The rate of loss can vary from seepage (1/4 to 10 bbl/hr), partial (10 - 50 bbl/hr), to total
(500 bbl/hr - no returns). The best remedies for curing loss of circulation depend to a
large degree on what formation type is being drilled.
Unconsolidated formations
Unconsolidated formations such as pea gravel occur mostly at shallow depths.
Indication is a gradual loss until filter cake or other plugging agent will block
permeability of the zone. Heavy losses can occur and are sometimes tolerated until
surface casing can be set.

Causes of Kicks
Maintaining Hydrostatic Pressure Control

Fractures
Natural fractures can exist in many formations. Usually a gradual loss of mud to
the hole is noticed but the losses can accelerate as additional fractures are
exposed. The fractures can be such that total loss of circulation can occur.
Induced fractures occur due to excessive mud weights, surge/swab, or hole

pack-offs. Usually resulting in total and sudden mud loss.
Cavernous formations
Usually only experienced when drilling limestones and reef structures.
Indicated by the bit dropping freely and sudden and complete mud loss.
Underground cross-flows
Should the fractures of a weak zone open due to pressure increase when
shutting in on a well kick, formation fluids (and mud) will flow from one
formation to another, usually from the lower zone to an upper zone that has
fractured. Underground cross-flows are indicated by unstable pressure
readings at the surface.
The depth of the zone taking fluid flow must be determined to calculate the
hydrostatics involved and to determine the remedial action to be taken.
Temperature surveys can be used to help identify the zone receiving the flow.
Accurate plug placement downhole is crucial to sealing a loss zone. To do so
requires that pump displacement be measured accurately and pipe capacities
must be known. Be aware of the risk of plugging jet nozzles when pumping
LCM (loss of circulation material). Keep the pipe moving when spotting pills to
prevent stuck pipe.

Warning Signs
Warning Signs of Kicks – Flow Check

A warning sign is an indication observed by the driller that tells him he has a kick
in the wellbore. The driller should pick up, stop the pump, and monitor the returns
for well flow. If flow is observed, the driller should Immediately shut the well in.
While Drilling
• Drilling Break
• Increase in Flow Return Rate*
• Gain in Pit Volume*
• Well Flows with Pumps Shut-off*
• Decrease in Circulating Pressure
• String Weight Change
• Reduced Drilling Fluid Density
While Tripping
• Improper hole fill
• Well begins to flow*
• Gain in Trip Tank Volume* * Indicates Positive Indicators
Kicks from “Isolated” Zones

Production casing leaking

Positive Indicators
Abnormal Pressure Detection

Introduction
The prime objective of well control is maintaining a mud weight sufficient to

overbalance the formation pore pressure. Doing so requires knowing the magnitude
of the pore pressure. During the well planning stage, the pore pressure is predicted
based on offset well data, if available, and analysis of seismic data. Although both
can be very helpful, the pore pressure value for the actual well being drilled may vary.
Generally, pore pressure is planned to be normal until a depth is reached where

changes in drilling parameters indicate a change to subnormal or abnormal.
Abnormally pressured formations are the most commonly penetrated and pose the
greatest risk from a well control standpoint. As the formation pore pressure
increases, the mud weight must be increased to maintain the desired overbalance.
The interval in the well in which formation pore pressure increases from normal is
known as the "transition zone". Usually this pressure "ramp" will increase to a
maximum, pore pressure caused by the depositional, burial and compaction process.
For shales, the transition zone represents the permeability barrier restricting the flow
of pore fluids to the marine environment. The thickness of the transition zone
depends on the permeability within and adjacent to the overpressured formation and
the age of the overpressure, e.g., the time available for the fluid flow and pressure
depletion since the overpressure developed.
Changes in drilling parameters allow for the detection and estimation of pore
pressure values for transition zones. Methods and techniques are constantly
improving accuracy, allowing for improved well control. Every effort must be made to
detect the presence of transition zones during the planning and drilling of a well.

Positive Indicators
Indicators - Rate of Penetration

In a normally pressured environment, shales
become more compacted as depth increases.
As compaction increases the water content of
the shale decreases, and it becomes more
dense and "harder" to drill. As depth increases
in normal pore pressure, the penetration rate
reduction and increased drilling forces such as
weight on bit, rotary speed, and hydraulic bit
horsepower, represent a clear trend. Changes
in this trend allow for the detection of abnormal
pore pressure.
Transition zones are often overlayed by a zone of nearly impermeable shale which
act as a pressure seal and is known as a "cap rock". This cap rock can offer very
difficult drilling; and this, in itself, is an indicator of potential pending overpressure.
As the bit penetrates the transition zone, the increased porosity and water content
of the shale allow for easier drilling, and a deflection from the "normal" trend occurs.
Indicators – Corrected d-Exponent

• The d-exponent is a measurement of the
"drillability" of a formation.
• Decreasing values of the d c will indicate the
transition zone.
• An overlay is used to predict the magnitude of
pore pressure.
• Most accurate when drilling through constant
lithology, particularly drilling shales.
• A normal trend must be established prior to
drilling into a transition zone.

Positive Indicators
Lagged Indicators
Connection Gases
 Susceptible to swabs
Background Gases
 Excellent PP indicator
Spalling Shales
Cuttings Load
 Increase at same ROP
Well will “talk to you”
MWD and LWD Indicators
General:
The basis of all models is a homogenous

Earth
• Claystones dewater with increasing
overburden.
• Porosity decreases while bulk density
increases.
Dewatering unrestricted?
• The claystone is - normally compacted
Dewatering restricted?
• The claystone is - overpressured

Positive Indicators
MWD/LWD Pressure Indicators

• Resistivity Curves
• Density Curves
• Sonic Curves
• Down hole Temperature
• PWD “Pressure While Drilling” Data
Resistivity
Trend shift to left indicates an

increase in under compaction and
therefore, overpressure.
Sonic
• Example: Sonic NCT, should

decrease with depth as velocities
increase. (usec/m)
• Shift to right indicates increase in

under compaction and therefore,
overpressure.

Kicks While Tripping
Maintain Hydrostatic Control - Tripping

Prior to Tripping
• Circulate the hole clean prior to the trip.
• Limit pipe speed to minimize surge/swab pressures.
• Line up and use a trip tank.
• Maintain hole fill/displacement data on trip sheets.
Hole Fillup = Disp. Factor x Stand Length x # of Stands

Example: Hole Fillup = .0076 x 93 x 5 = 3.5 bbls
• Discuss with driller the purpose of trip.

• Prepare the drill floor.
Tripping Procedure
1. Flow-check the well prior to tripping.
2. Pump a slug so that the pipe can be pulled “dry”.
As a rule of thumb, the slug should be mixed to maintain a minimum of 2 stands of dry pipe.
Accurate displacement is necessary so that the depth and height of the slug is known at all
times during the trip.
3. Ensure that the level in the annulus is falling by monitoring the hole through the
rotary for the first 5-10 stands pulled off bottom. After confirming that there is no
swabbing then install the pipe wiper.
4. Circulate the hole across the trip tank and continue the trip out, check correct hole
fill via trip tank and trip sheets.
5. Conduct a flow-check when BHA is first pulled into casing and prior to pulling the
BHA into the BOP stack.

Slug and Trip Sheets
Slug Displacement
In almost all cases of well work, the hydrostatic pressures associated with the fluids
in the well can be represented as a “U-tube” with one leg of the tube representing
the drillpipe or workstring and the other leg representing the annulus.
A 10 bbl slug (10.0 ppg) was pumped into the tubing. The 10 bbl displaced 2222 ft
of the 8.5 ppg fluid from the tubing into the annulus. After the pump was stopped,
the slug continued to fall until the combined hydrostatic in the tubing equaled the
hydrostatic of the annulus.

Slug and Trip Sheets
Use of Trip Sheets

Trip sheets should be used to record hole fill volumes for all trips. The trip sheet
allows for comparison of actual vs. calculated fluid volumes so that any
discrepancies can be easily detected.
A trip tank should also be used during all trips to assist with accurate hole fill
requirements.

Well Shut-In Procedures
Important Considerations
• String space-out for BOP closing and safety valve access or installation.
• The drill/work string should be secured first. This is the shortest path to the
surface for potential kicking fluids.
• After the well is shut-in, verify that well flow has ceased.
Types of shut-in:
• Soft shut-in – choke is open during the shut-in procedure and is closed after
the BOP.
• Hard shut-in – choke is closed during the shut-in process so that the wellbore
is contained upon BOP closure.
Well Shut-In as Per API RP 59

Well Shut-in while Drilling – Hard Well Shut-in while Drilling – Soft
Shut-In Shut-In
1. Pick up to correct space out. 1. Pick up to correct space out.
2. Shut-off pumps. 2. Shut off pumps.
3. Close the desired/planned BOP
(annular or ram). 3. Open choke line valve
(HCR).
4. Open choke line valve (HCR).
4. Close the BOP.
5. Ensure that choke is closed.
6. Verify that well is shut-in. 5. Close the remote choke.
7. Record time, SIDPP, SICP, and 6. Verify that well is shut-in.

Pit Gain (initiate a kick log of
7. Record Time, SIDPP, SICP,
shut-in pressures and time).
and Pit Gain.
8. Notify supervisors.
8. Notify supervisors.

Well Shut-In Procedures
Well Shut-In as Per API RP 59

While Tripping – Soft Shut-In While Tripping – Hard Shut-In
1.Set top tool joint on the slips. 1.Set top tool joint on the slips.
2.Install fully opened drillstring 2.Install fully opened drillstring safety
safety valve. valve.
3.Close safety valve with wrench. 3.Close safety valve (with wrench).
4.Open choke line valve (HCR). 4.Close the desired/planned BOP.
5.Close the BOP. 5.Open choke line valve (HCR).
6.Close the remote choke. 6.Ensure that choke is closed.
7.Verify the well is shut-in. 7.Verify that well is shut-in.
8.Notify supervisors. 8.Notify supervisors.
9.Record Time, SICP and Pit 9.Record Time, SICP and Pit Gain.
Gain.
Surface Gauge Readings

Gas Behavior
The volume of any gas and its subsequent density is governed by the pressure and
temperature experienced at any one time.
This relationship is referred to as “The gas laws”
To be very accurate temperature and compressibility must be taken into consideration.

However that degree of accuracy is not required in the drilling sphere therefore we limit
the relationship to that of pressure and volume.
Gas Behavior/ Gas Law
When the pressure of a gas changes the volume will also change.
If the pressure increases the volume will decrease and conversely if the pressure
decreases the volume will increase.
Usually expressed as P1 x V1 = P2 x V2
Where P1 is the original gas pressure and V1 is the original volume and P2 and
V2 the new pressure and volume.
Gas Behavior

Gas Behaviors
Gas Cut Mud

When drilling a gas bearing formation, the mud weight will be gas cut due to the gas
breaking out of the pore space of the cuttings near the surface. The severity of the
influx will depend on the penetration rate, porosity and permeability, and is independent
of mud weight. The importance attached to gas cutting is that gas is entering the
wellbore in small quantities, which calls for caution. Degassing is necessary to ensure
that good mud is being pumped back into the hole to prevent the percentage of gas
from increasing with each circulation, which would allow greater and greater bottom
hole hydrostatic pressure reductions.
Gas cutting alone does not indicate the well is kicking, unless it is associated with pit
gain. Allowing the well to belch over the nipple could cause reduction in hydrostatic
pressure to the point that the formation would start flowing, resulting in a kick.
In a drilling
Gas Migration in WBM and a Closed Well environment these
pressures are very
unlikely to be
experienced as the
shoe would have
broken down.

Gas Behavior
Gas Behavior in a Oil Based Mud
Gas Behavior In Oil Base Muds

Can cause well unloading with NO warning to driller!!! Types of Gases
•Methane
• H2S
• CO2
H2S and CO2 can behave
similarly in water base and
synthetic base muds.
Bubble Point is the
pressure at which gas
“ breaks ” out of solution
and behaves according to
the gas law.
The real danger is when the bubble point depth and the unload condition depth are
equal!! This condition is extremely Hazardous since violent unloading of the well can
occur with no warning to the driller

Shallow Hazards
Gas Rise and Wellbore Unloading
Shallow Hazards
Shallow hazards are accumulations Shallow Water Flows
of gas or salt water which are
Shallow water flows can result naturally as a
abnormally pressured and occurring
product of the marine environment or can be
at a sufficiently shallow depth that
induced by the drilling process
precludes having the BOPS yet
installed. Shallow hazards pose a Requirements for Naturally Occurring SWFs
severe threat since, when 1. Increased pore pressure due to high
encountered, they can only be flowed sedimentation rates
to the surface and diverted. 2. Presence of a top seal
3. Presence of a permeable sand
Shallow Gas
Shallow gas accumulations are typically found in sand lenses which were
deposited in a shallow marine shelf environment with tidal influence. These lenses
could thus be sealed by surrounding clay sediments. This patchy distribution is
important. It must not be assumed that because several wells have penetrated a
potential gas zone successfully that any future well will also be free of shallow gas.
It is difficult to estimate gas volumes in these shallow accumulations but in one
North Sea incident it was estimated that 8 mmscf of gas was vented. This could be
supplied by a 15 ft thick sand with an area of only 250 ft in diameter.
Flow rates of over 100 mmscfd have been reported for several shallow gas
blowouts in the Gulf of Mexico.

Shallow Hazards
Shallow Gas
Abnormally pressured shallow gas occurs due to the inclination of the sand lens,
which has the same effect of increasing the height of the lens and, therefore, the
pressure gradient at the top of the lens.
Shallow gas flows can be extremely prolific and flow of rock and sand can be severe
to the point of causing diverter failure. If shallow gas is encountered, preparations
should begin immediately to evacuate all non-essential personnel. The rig may
ultimately be completely evacuated, depending on the severity of the event.
Causes of Shallow Gas Kicks

• Overloading the annulus w/cuttings, causing loss of circulation
• Drilled gas expanding and unloading the annulus
• Improper hole fill while tripping
Prevention Considerations
• Drill a pilot hole
• Drill riserless (when applicable - subsea)
• Restrict ROPs and control drill
• Accurately monitor the well and drilling process
Diverting for Bottom Supported Rig
1. Maintain maximum pump rate.
2. Space-out such that the lower safety valve is above the rotary.
3. Ensure that downwind diverter line is open - close diverter element.
4. Shut down all non-essential equipment and machinery to minimize sources of

ignition – deploy fire hose beneath rig floor.
5. Monitor the sea for evidence of gas breaking through from outside the conductor.
6. Continue to monitor wind direction and continue to pump fluid/water.
7. Pump premixed heavy mud, if available.

Diverters
Diverter System
The diverter system includes:
• Diverter - a low pressure annular

preventer used to seal the wellbore
from the flowline.
• Vent lines - large diameter piping used

to flow the fluids downwind of the rig
(port and starboard).
• Vent line valves - full opening valves

used to select and isolate the desired
vent line.
• Hydraulic control system - functions the

diverter and automatically opens the
selected vent line valve.
Large diameter drive or conductor pipe is usually installed below the mud line for
spudding in an offshore location and a casing string is set and cemented at shallow
depth for land locations. This pipe provides a seal capable of supporting the hydrostatic
of the mud column from the base of the casing to the flow nipple outlet. The diverter
system is installed on the drive or conductor casing.
The working pressure of the diverter and vent lines is not of prime importance, rather
they are sized to permit high flow rate diversion of wellbore fluids while minimizing
wellbore back pressure.
Pressures Experienced at the Shoe

• Based upon the understanding that as the deeper you go into a well the more
the overburden compacts the formation, then the formation with the least
amount of compaction ( strength) will be that highest in the hole that is not cased
off.
• It is with this in mind that we establish the shoe strength.
• Normally this is done from the surface down standard leak off test.
• However to grasp what is happening at the shoe during well control situations it
is necessary to establish the pressures from the “bottom up”

Pressure at the Shoe
Pressure Exerted at Shoe During Kill

The theory states that the pressure exerted at any point in the well bore will be the
difference between the bottom hole pressure and the hydrostatic pressure exerted
from that point to the bottom of the hole.
This theory is most commonly used to establish the bottom hole pressure when a
well has been shut in. ( Shut in drill pipe pressure plus the hydrostatic pressure in
the pipe ) is equal to the bottom hole pressure.
The reverse of this is being applied.
Shut-In Conditions

Key Considerations
• It is not recommended to always check for trapped pressure after shutting in
the well. However, if the pumps are still running when the well is shut in,
pressure may be trapped on the wellbore.
• The Driller should know if pressure is trapped during shut-in.
• Trapped pressure check:

1. Open choke slightly and bleed ¼ bbl (or less) of mud from well.
2. Close choke and record shut-in pressures.
3. If casing and drillpipe shut-in pressures are reduced – Repeat Step 1.
4. If casing and drillpipe pressure remain the same – record these
values as the correct shut-in pressures.
Shut – In Pressures Build – Up

Pressure Build-Up for a 10 MD Reservoir with Gas Migration

Pressures Experience at the Shoe

Based upon the understanding that as the deeper you go into a well the more the
overburden compacts the formation, then the formation with the least amount of
compaction ( strength) will be that highest in the hole that is not cased off.
It is with this in mind that we establish the shoe strength.

Normally this is done from the surface down ( standard leak off test.
However to grasp what is happening at the shoe during well control situations it is
necessary to establish the pressures from the “bottom up”
Pressure Exerted at Shoe During a Kill

The theory states that the pressure exerted at any point in the well bore will be the
difference between the bottom hole pressure and the hydrostatic pressure exerted from
that point to the bottom of the hole.
This theory is most commonly used to establish the bottom hole pressure when a well
has been shut in. (Shut in drill pipe pressure plus the hydrostatic pressure in the pipe)
is equal to the bottom hole pressure.
The reverse of this is being applied.

Annulus Theory
Bottom hole pressure = 500 + 10,000 x 10 x.052
= 5,700 psi
Pressure at the shoe = 5,700 – Hydrostatic P from the shoe
to the bottom of the hole
= 5,700 – ( 1,000 x .1 ) + (4,000 x 10 x .052)
= 5,700 – (100 + 2080)
= 3,520 psi
The shut in casing pressure = 5,700 – Hydrostatic pressure
from surface to the bottom of the hole.
= 5,700 – (1,000 x .1) + (9,000 x 10 x .052)
= 5,700 – ( 100 +4,680)
= 920 psi
920 + H.P. surface to shoe (2,600)
=3,520 psi
The answer is the same if you work top down or bottom up.
Well Shut In

Well Control
Methods

Driller’s Method
Key Points
• Influx is circulated from well with original fluid weight.
• ICP is held constant during the first circulation.
• For mechanically induced kicks not requiring mud weight
increase, the second circulation is not required
• For underbalanced kicks a second circulation is required.
Advantages Disadvantages
• Circulation begins immediately • Longer time on choke (if two
• Barite supply not required to begin circulations required)
procedure • Higher surface pressures than with
Wait and Weight
• Shoe pressure may be higher
Driller’s Method - Procedure

1. Bring pump on line as per Pump Start-up.
2. Compare the actual Initial Circulating Pressure
to the pre-calculated ICP. If the actual
measured ICP is greater that the pre-
calculated ICP, correct the kill sheet and use
the actual ICP.
• If the actual ICP is less than the
calculated ICP, stop the pump and close
the well in. Determine if there are any
problems in the circulating system.
3. Adjust the choke as necessary to control
drillpipe pressure constant until all influx is There are two ways to
circulated from well. do this:
• Always be alert to potential problems. If 1. Hold casing pressure
ANY problem is suspected, STOP the constant till strokes to
pump and CLOSE the well in. bit are pumped and
then hold FCP on DP
4. Keeping casing pressure constant, slowly bring
back to surface.
pump offline. SIDPP and SICP should be equal
or near equal. If not, circulate again to remove 2. Perform the W&W
anymore contaminant out of well. Having method and create a
weighed up mud in the pits, bring well back on DP PSI chart and follow
line to circulate kill mud. the W&W procedure.

Driller’s Method

Driller’s Method
First Circulation
Kill Weight Mud

Kill Weight Mud should be the exact mud weight required to balance formation
pressure (no overbalance margin or safety factor).
• Shut-in Drillpipe Pressure is the difference between hydrostatic and formation
pressure.
• Kill weight mud is calculated using the Shut-in Drillpipe Pressure.
• Always round up to next highest tenth ppg.
EXAMPLE:
Shut-in drillpipe pressure = 200 psi

True Vertical Depth = 8500 ft
Original Mud Weight = 12.0 ppg

Driller’s Method
Second Circulation

Driller’s Method
First Circulation – Choke and Standpipe Pressure
Second Circulation – Choke and Standpipe Pressure

Wait & Weight Method
The Wait and Weight Method gets it’s name from the fact that there is a “waiting” time
while the well stabilizes and the mud weight is increased or “weighted” up prior to
circulating the influx from the hole. The W & W Method is only required for killing a kick
that requires a heavier fluid weight.
Theoretically, the well should be killed in one complete circulation, however circulation
should continue until there is consistent return of kill mud at the surface.
Advantages Include:
• Pressures exerted on the wellbore and on control equipment will generally be
lower than when using the Driller’s Method. The difference is most significant
if the influx is gas, and/or large volume kicks.
• The maximum pressure exerted on the shoe will normally be lower if the W &
W Method is used. The maximum shoe pressure will be lower if kill weight
fluid starts up the annulus before the top of the influx is displaced to the shoe.
• The well will be under pressure for less time.
Vertical and Low Angle Wells

1. Calculate the Kill Weight Mud (KWM).
The kill weight mud is the mud weight required to exactly balance the kick zone
pressure.
2. Calculate the drillstring and annulus volumes and Surface to Bit and
bottoms up pump strokes.
The drill string and annular volumes need be known to determine where the
influx and kill weight mud is within the circulation path during the well kill. This
data is usually obtained from the completed kill sheet.
3. Calculate the anticipated Initial Circulating Pressure (ICP).

The ICP should be calculated in order to estimate the circulating pressure that
will be required to maintain constant BHP at the start of the well kill.

Wait & Weight Method
Vertical and Low Angle Wells

4. Calculate the Final Circulating Pressure (FCP).
As the drillpipe is displaced with kill weight fluid, the circulating standpipe
pressure must be reduced to take into account the increased hydrostatic
pressure of the mud in the pipe. The standpipe pressure must also
compensate for the increase in friction pressure due to pumping a heavier
weight fluid.
Once the drillpipe is completely displaced with KWM, the static drillpipe
pressure should be zero. The required circulating standpipe pressure at this
point is just the SCR pressure adjusted for the KWM.
5. Construct a circulating drill pipe pressure schedule vs. pump strokes.

The choke operator needs to manipulate the control choke to follow the
schedule of circulating drill pipe pressure (required to maintain constant
BHP) verses the accumulated pump strokes during the well kill. This will
ensure the well kill is going smoothly and help identify any potential problems
that may occur.

Pressure Profiles
Choke and Standpipe Pressure
WELL DATA:
Well depth 11,480 ft BHA 6 ½”, 591 ft
Shoe depth 6,560 ft Pipe 5” OD DP
MW 14.2 ppg Method Wait & Weight
Kick EMW 15.2 ppg Influx 20 bbls gas
SIDPP 600 psi SCR 500 psi @ 30 spm

Pressure Profiles
Casing Shoe Pressure
• The pressure at the casing shoe for both the wait and weight and the driller’s
methods is shown above.
• Between point P and Q, the shoe pressure decreases as the influx is displaced above
the BHA. The influx expands as it is circulated to the shoe at point R, after which, the
pressure at the shoe decreases.
• At point S, the kill weight mud starts up the annulus and, hence, reduces the choke
pressure below that for the driller's method. Between points T and U, the original
weight mud is displaced past the shoe until point U, when the kill weight mud arrives
at the shoe.
• The pressure at point U, is equal to the kick zone equivalent mud weight and, thus
represents the minimum pressure that the shoe will see once the well has been killed.
• In this well example, the maximum shoe pressure is unaffected by the technique used
to kill the well; however, the shoe will be under pressure significantly longer if the
driller’s method is used.

Pressure Profiles
Bringing Well On Choke

Pump Operator
1. At the instruction of the choke operator: Begin slow and easy; it should take at
least a full minute to bring the pump up to the planned kill rate.
2. Monitor the pump rate increase. Communicate the stroke increases to the Choke
Operator.
3. Pump pressure should rise steadily with stroke increase and casing pressure
should be kept constant by choke operator. If any unusual pressure behavior is
seen - stop pumping and communicate to the Choke Operator to close-in the well.
Choke Operator's Responsibilities
1. Upon word from the Pump Operator that the pump has started, crack open the
choke slightly and monitor the drillpipe and casing pressures.
2. As the pump comes up to kill rate, adjust choke as necessary to control casing
pressure constant at the shut-in value until the pump is up to desired kill rate.
3. Be aware of unusual pressure behavior and communicate to the Pump Operator
the drillpipe and casing pressures. Be prepared to instruct the Pump Operator to
shut down the pump if unusual pressures are seen.
4. When the pump has reached the proper kill rate, continue to control casing
pressure constant until the casing and drillpipe pressures have stabilized.
5. Record drillpipe pressure as the correct Initial Circulating Pressure (ICP).
Compare it to the pre-calculated ICP value.
Note:
If actual ICP is greater than the calculated ICP, use the actual ICP and correct
same on the Kill Sheet. If the actual ICP is less than the calculated ICP, stop
the pumps, close in the well and determine if a problem exists in the
circulating system. Then retry bringing the pump on line.

Horizontal Well Control
Well Control Issues for Horizontal Wells

Causes of Horizontal Kicks
Underbalanced Kicks
• Faulted reservoir
• Reservoir pinch-outs and re-entry
Induced Kicks
• Swabbing - increased swab/surge
• Swabbing due to restricted annular clearance caused by cuttings beds in
vertical/horizontal transition
• Loss of circulation - increasing ECD while stepping out horizontally; ECD
increasing more rapidly than formation strength
• Loss of circulation - higher swab pressures than equivalent vertical well

Causes of Horizontal Well Kicks – Underbalanced Kicks
Causes of Horizontal Well Kicks – Induced Kicks
LOSS OF CIRCULATION
• Naturally Existing Fractures
• Different Formation Permeability
• Depleted Sections of Reservoir
• Higher ECD Than Vertical Well
SWABBING
• Higher Surge/Swab (TMD/TVD)
• Cutting Beds Likely in Horizontal and
High Angle Transition

Kick Detection by Pit Gain and Flow
Pit Gain is best indicator.
SIDP vs. SICP

Well Kill Underbalanced Kicks
Horizontal vs. Vertical

Controlling Gas Expansion
Controlling Gas Expansion
Whenever the well is shut-in on a gas kick, the gas will start migrating up the hole.
Migrating rates can vary from a few hundred feet per hour upwards to over one
thousand feet per hour – depending on the fluid in the hole. Migrating gas causes
the pressures to increase everywhere in the wellbore. The pressure increase is
equal to the hydrostatic pressure of the mud that has slipped past the migrating
gas.
Record the shut-in pressures every minute as well as any pertinent information
concerning the well control operation. The shut-in pressures will indicate migrating
gas.
• BHP = FP at shut in
• The gas influx will migrate causing
• BHP increase
• Casing shoe pressure
increase
• SICP increase
• Worst possible case is gas at the
surface at its original pressure. By
this time SICP = FP and BHP has
nearly doubled!
• Gas migration can occur whenever the

well is shut-in on a gas influx
• Indicated by uniform increase in SICP and

SIDP
• Uncontrolled gas migration increases

pressure everywhere in wellbore
• If ignored, pressure increase can cause

formation damage and mud losses
• Two methods of controlling

 Drillpipe Pressure Method
 Volumetric Method

Drillpipe Pressure Method
• Simple
• Should be used anytime well is shut-in with the bit on or near bottom and
drillpipe gauge indicating BHP
Procedure:
1. Allow SIDP to increase by a safety margin of between 50 to 100 psi, this
is the lower limit
2. Further, allow DP pressure to increase by a working pressure margin of
between 50 to 100 psi, this is the upper limit
3. Open choke and bleed DP pressure to the lower limit value
4. Repeat 2 & 3 until an appropriate constant BHP procedure is
implemented or gas is at the top of well
Picture of drillpipe pressure method
Controlling Gas Migration

Notes
• Bleed only small volumes of fluid to control BHP between upper
and lower limits. A manual choke is preferred since it allows
bleeding very small volumes.
• In deep wells, prepare for considerable delay between choke
adjustment and drillpipe pressure changes when using the DP
Pressure Method.
Gas migration rate can be estimated by the following formulas:

Increase in Surface Pressure (psi)
Height Gas Has Migrated (ft) =
Mud Gradient (psi/ft)
Pressure Increase (psi/hr)

Migration rate (ft/hr) =
Mud Gradient (psi/ft)
Example:
100 psi/hr pressure increase
= 161 ft/hr migration rate
0.62 psi/ft mud gradient

Volumetric Procedure
Applications
Circulation Not Possible
• Plugged string.
• Pipe out of hole.
• Pump is shut-down or unavailable and there is a float in the
string.
Circulation Not Recommended
• Not @ TVD (off bottom).
• Pipe stuck
• Not possible to strip.
Method should be used with Caution.

Volumetric
Volumetric Procedure
1. Select a Working Pressure Range, Pw and Safety Margin, Ps.
For Example: Pw = 100 psi & Ps = 100 psi.
2. Calculate the hydrostatic pressure per bbl of mud in the upper annulus.
3. Calculate the Volume to Bleed each cycle.
4. Allow shut-in casing pressure to increase by Ps without bleeding from the well.
5. Allow shut-in casing pressure to increase by the Pw without bleeding from the well.
6. Maintain casing pressure constant by bleeding small volumes of mud from the well
until total bled equals correct volume to bleed per cycle
Repeat Steps 5, and 6 until another procedure is implemented or all gas is at

surface.

Volumetric
Volumetric Procedure Worksheet

Gas Lubrication
Lubricating Gas from the Surface of a Well

Gas lubrication is the process of removing gas from beneath the BOP stack while
maintaining constant bottomhole pressure. Lubrication is most suited for surface
stacks but the dynamic gas lubrication procedure can be used to vent gas from
beneath a subsea BOP.
Lubrication can be used to reduce pressures or to remove gas from beneath the
BOP stack prior to stripping or after implementing the Volumetric Procedure for
controlling gas migration.
The volume of mud lubricated into the well should be accurately measured using a
measuring tank on cement unit.
If the influx was swabbed into the well, the mud weight being lubricated should
eventually reduce the casing pressure to zero. However, if the mud weight in the
hole is insufficient to balance formation pore pressure, the final choke pressure will
reflect the degree of underbalance. It will then be necessary to kill the well.

Gas Lubrication
Gas Lubrication
Volume Method
1. Select a Working Pressure Range, Pw.
For Example Pw = 100 to 200 psi
2. Calculate the hydrostatic increase (in upper annulus) per bbl of lube mud.
3. Pump lube mud through kill line to increase casing pressure by Working
Pressure Range, Pw
4. Measure the trip tank and calculate the hydrostatic pressure increase of the
mud lubricated for this cycle
5. Wait 15 to 20 minutes for the mud to “lubricate” through the gas.
6. Bleed “dry” gas only from the choke to reduce the casing pressure by the
Hydrostatic Increase + the Working Range.
Repeat steps 3, 4, 5, and 6 until lubrication is complete.

Gas Lubrication
Volume Method Worksheet

Stripping
Stripping is a technique for moving the string through the BOP stack when the well is
shut-in under pressure. In most cases, stripping is required to return the drillstring to
bottom after shutting in on a kick with the bit off bottom. Stripping requires a high level
of coordination among crew members.
Contingency planning:
• How to move the tool joint through the BOP
• The wear on BOP elements
• Level of redundancy in the BOP control system
• High stripping pressures (near MASP)
• Monitoring of pressures and fluid volumes
• Organization and supervision of crew
• Gas migration
• Possibility of stuck pipe
• Manufacturer’s info regarding BOP equipment
Factors affecting well pressures when stripping:
Compression - fluids are compressed as pipe is lowered.
Under-bleeding - not bleeding correct volume equal to closed end displacement

stripped.
Influx penetration - pipe penetrating the influx causes the influx to elongate, resulting
in additional hydrostatic pressure loss.
Gas migration - must be controlled properly.
Artificial migration - once pipe has penetrated the influx, additional pipe stripped will
“pump” the influx up the hole.
Restored overbalance - occurs when last few stands are stripped to bottom and the
hole is filled.

Stripping
Short Term Annular Stripping
Applications
• When stripping 20 stands or less

• Gas migration & increased pressure not factors
Procedure:
1. Strip first stand closed in to allow casing to increase by the desired 100 – 200
psi “safety margin”
2. Continue to strip “ bleeding on volume” bleed mud equivalent to closed end

displacement of pipe stripped
• Lower pipe slowly
• Floormen should remove pipe burrs from TJs
• Pipe should be filled from the inside BOP to surface for each stand
3. Monitor casing pressure for gas migration - be prepared for volumetric or long
term stripping if indicated
4. Once on bottom, implement Drillers Method

Stripping
Initial Annular Closing Pressures
Initial Annular Pressures for Stripping
With 5” drillpipe, what pressure setting would you use – drillpipe or tooljoint?

Stripping
Long Term Annular Stripping
Since the type of influx is not usually known,
it is prudent to plan a stripping procedure
around a “worst case” scenario; a gas kick
which is migrating up the wellbore.
Well fluids can be accurately accounted for
by bleeding from the choke into a calibrated
trip tank and then bleeding volume from the
trip tank into a calibrated stripping tank used
to account for the closed end displacement.
Mud accumulation in the trip tank is assumed
to be from gas expansion as it migrates and
can then be accounted for accurately.
The life of the annular preventer can be
extended significantly by use of a surge
bottle.
Long Term Annular Stripping Worksheet

Stripping
Long Term Annular Stripping - Procedure
1. Strip first stand closed in to allow casing
to increase to P choke1.
2. Choke operator to bleed as needed to
hold casing pressure constant at Pchoke
value. After each stand, drain V 1 volume
(closed end displacement per stand) from
trip tank into stripping tank.
• Lower pipe slowly
• Floormen should remove pipe
burrs from TJs
• Pipe should be filled from the
inside BOP to surface for each
stand
3. Continue as in Step 2 until a net gain of
V2 (volume representing gas migrating) is
noted in the trip tank. Then close the
choke.
4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3.
5. When on bottom, kill the well using the
Driller’s Method.
Long Term Annular Stripping - Sample Data Sheet

Bullheading
Bullheading – Drilling Wellbores
Bullheading may be used in certain circumstances during drilling operations to pump an
influx back into the formation. The success of the bullheading depends on two factors:
1) the amount of open hole present, and 2) where the influx is relative to a permeable
zone.
When to Bullhead
• When the influx is very large in volume.
• Conventional displacement may cause excessive surface pressures.
• Conventional displacement may cause excessive gas volume at the surface.
• The influx is believed to be H2S.
• Handling a kick when off-bottom and not feasible to strip.
• A kick with no pipe in the hole.
• To reduce surface pressures sufficient to allow other well control operations.
• In Deep Water subsea wells where there is a narrow margin between pore
pressure and frac gradient.
Important Considerations
• The characteristics and condition of the open hole.
• The rated pressure of the well control equipment and the casing.
• The type of influx and the relative permeability of the formation.
• The quality of the filter cake at the permeable formation.
• The consequence of fracturing a section of the open hole.

Complications
and Solutions

Slow Pump Pressure
Be Prepared for Complications During Well Control Operations

Note:
If a problem develops while killing a well, “NOTE and RECORD” the
drillpipe and casing pressure, stop the pump, shut-in the well, and then,
evaluate the situation.
Well controlling pressure is provided by using the horsepower of the mud pumps and
the back pressure associated by the control choke during kick circulation. Excessive
pressures could develop should any part of the circulation path become plugged.
Improper BHP may be induced on the well if any washouts of the circulation path occur
or any other factors that may alter the hydraulics of the system.
Complications include:
• Unknown slow pump circulating pressures.
• Bit and/or choke plugging.
• Drillstring and/or choke washouts.
• Loss of circulation during well kill.
• Excessive surface pressures.

Slow Pump Pressure
Obtaining Slow Pump Pressure after Kick
How is the slow pump pressure obtained if not recorded prior to taking
a kick?
Example:
SIDPP = 500 psi
SICP = 800 psi
Slow Pump Pressure = 1000 psi
Slow Pump Rate = 30 spm
Step No. 1
• Bring Well on Choke Using Correct Start-up
Procedure
Step No. 2
• When Both the drillpipe and Casing Pressure
Gauges Have Stabilized, Read and Record the
Correct Initial Circulating Pressure From the drillpipe
Gauge.
Step No. 3
• From the Well Control Kill Sheet
Initial Circulating Pressure (ICP) 1500 psi

ICP = Slow Pump Pressure + SIDPP
1500 = ? + 500
SPP = ICP - SIDPP
1000 = 1500 - 500

Float in Drillstring
How would the SIDPP and the Slow Pump Pressure be obtained if
a non-ported float is in the string and Slow Pump Pressure was not
recorded prior to taking a kick?
Example:
SIDPP = 500 psi
SICP = 800 psi
Slow Pump Pressure = 1000 psi
Slow Pump Rate = 30 spm
Step No. 1
• Perform a LOT on the float. Use the cementing pump and pump at a
low rate into the drillpipe. When the float opens there will be a slight
fluctuation or delay in the drillpipe pressure.
THIS IS THE SHUT-IN DRILLPIPE PRESSURE.
Step No. 2
• Bring well on choke using correct start up procedure.
• Obtain slow circulating rate pressure using procedure outlined on
previous page.
SPP = ICP - SIDPP
1000 = 1500 - 500

Partial Lost Circulation
Partial Lost Circulation while Killing Well
Identifying and detecting
• Usually indicated by non-responsive choke.
• Gradual decrease in casing pressure followed by decrease in drillpipe
pressure.
• Decrease in mud pit volume may be observed.
Remedial Action
• Reduced pump rate using correct procedure, continue killing well as long as
mud volumes permit.
• Remove any excess pressures being used as overbalance safety factors.
• Use exact kill weight mud – no safety factors.
• When mud volume becomes too low, - shut-in well – let well HEAL while
building mud volume.
• Emergency procedures to prevent the loss of control involve the use of
barite and cement plugs.
Choke Problems
Identifying and Detecting
• Abrasive particles at high velocity - Choke washout
• Slouching or heaving shale – plugged choke.
NOTE: Choke problems will affect BOTH casing pressure and drillpipe
pressure
Washed Out Choke

• Gradual decrease in casing pressure followed by gradual decrease in drillpipe
pressure.
• Closing choke with little or no response to both gauges.
• Could result in underbalance situation with additional pit volume increase if
proper drillpipe pressure cannot be maintained.
Plugged Choke
• Gradually increasing or drastically increasing casing and drillpipe pressure.
• Opening choke with little or no response to both gauges.
• Particles often create noise and vibration.
• Could result in partial or complete loss of circulation.

Choke Problems
Choke Problems
Remedial Action
• Stop pump and shut-in well as quickly and as safely as possible.
• Isolated plugged choke. (Close up stream and down stream valves.)
• If another choke is available, line up proper valves in choke manifold and
resume killing well.
• If no other choke can be used, repair plugged choke then resume kill
operations.
Washed-Out Drillstring
Identifying and Detecting

• Gradual decrease in drillpipe pressure with little or no change in casing
pressure.
• Choke closed to compensate for loss in drillpipe pressure resulting in
increased casing pressure
• May not be noticed until:
• Casing pressure gets so high it finally gets your attention.
• Begin to lose partial returns
• Increasing mud weight returns at flowline before expected.
• Drastic decrease in drillpipe pressure with little or no change in casing
pressure
Remedial Action
• Determine depth of washout.
• If KWM is above washout in annulus, continue kill procedures.
• Stop pump and shut-in well. Bring well on choke to determine new
circulating pressure.
Shallow Washout
• Stop pumping – implement Volumetric procedure.
• Pump softline or other plugging material.
• Coiled tubing/small tubing with packer.
• Strip pipe out of hole to remove washout joint(s)

Well Control
Equipment

Stack Configuration
API Publication (RP-53) Briefs
Surface BOP Stacks

12.3.1 Accumulator Volume Capacity
Useable Fluid Volume = hydraulic fluid recovered between System pressure
and (200 + pre-charge) pressure.
Minimum calculated operating pressure = well pressure divided by closing
ratio
Component minimum operating pressure = as recommended by
manufacturer
12.3.2 Accumulator Bottles: CLOSE one annular, CLOSE all rams, OPEN one
HCR valve against 0 psi well pressure; the remaining pressure should be
200 psi above pre-charge
12.3.3 Maximum Closing Times
Rams 30 seconds
Annular less than 18 ¾” 30 seconds
Annular 18 ¾” and larger 45 seconds
Choke and kill line valves (HCR) should not exceed the minimum observed
Ram close response time
12.3.5 Minimum Pre-charge Pressure

System Pressure Pre-charge Pressure
3000 psi 1000 psi
5000 psi 1500 psi
Pre-charge should be checked at the start of drilling to within 100 psi
12.3.6 Pressure gauge for measuring pre-charge should be calibrated to within 1%

of full scale every three years

Stack Configuration
Surface BOP Stacks

12.4.1 Pump Systems should close one annular on minimum sized drill pipe in use
and open one HCR on the choke line
Pumps must provide operating pressure recommended by annular BOP
manufacturer to seal the annulus in two (2) minutes or less
12.4.2 Air pumps should be able to charge the system to system working pressure
with 75 psi of air supply
12.6.2 Reservoir Fluid Capacity should be at least two times the useable fluid
volume
Subsea BOP Stacks

volume
13.1 General: Eight elements of the BOP Control System

1. Storage (reservoir)
2. Pumping system for pressurizing control fluid
3. Accumulator bottles (both surface and subsea)
4. Hydraulic control manifold
5. Remote panel
6. Hydraulic fluid
7. Umbilical control hose bundles and reels
8. Control pods on the BOP

Stack Configuration
Surface BOP Stacks

13.3.2 Accumulator Useable Fluid Accumulator should supply useable fluid to
CLOSE and OPEN one annular and all rams against 0 psi well pressure with
200 psi above pre-charge remaining on the bottles
13.3.3 Subsea accumulator bottle capacity calculations should be compensated
by:
.445 psi/ft X sea depth (sea water hydrostatic pressure) this is to be added
to accumulator bottle pre-charge pressure
13.3.4 Subsea accumulators shall have isolation and dumping capability
13.3.5 Accumulator response time:
Rams 45 seconds
Annulars 60 seconds
HCR valves should close less than or equal to ram response time
LMRP unlatch less than or equal to 45 seconds
13.4.1 Pump systems (minimum of two pumps) should charge system from
minimum calculated operating pressure to system maximum in 15 minutes
13.4.6 Separate accumulators for pilot control system may have a separate pump
or by check valve from the main accumulator system. Provisions should be
made to supply hydraulic fluid to pilot accumulators from the main system if
the pilot pump fails.
13.6.3 Main hydraulic supply through 1 inch nominal supply hose in bundle. An
alternative is rigid pipe on the riser.
API RP 16-E
Illumination of green lights should indicate that the function is in the normal drilling
position. The red light should indicate that the function is in abnormal drilling position.

Stack Configuration
Standard Surface BOP Configuration
Top Drive with Safety Valves

Stack Configuration
Answer the following questions
Based on the following Drawing Answer Yes or No to the Question Asked.
1) Can the well be killed with the drill string in

hole and the well shut in with the 5” Rams?
Yes or No
2) Can the Annular be repaired with no drill
string in the hole and the well shut in with
the Blind/Shear Rams?
Yes or No
3) Can the Blind/Shear Rams be changed out if
well is shut in the with the 5”Rams with the
drill string in the hole?
Yes or No
4) Could the outer choke valve be repaired if the
well was shut in with the Annular and the
drill string is in the hole?
Yes or No
Flanges

Diverter
Regan – Vetco Diverter
The drawing below represents a Regan-Vetco diverter with several components
numbered:
Diverters

Annular Preventers
Annular preventers have a doughnut shaped elastic element reinforced with internally
bonded steel. Extrusion of the element into the wellbore is effected by upwards
movement of a hydraulically actuated piston. The elastomer element is designed to
seal around any shape or size of pipe and to close on open-hole.
An important function of annular preventers is to facilitate

stripping of the drillpipe in or out of a closed in well having
pressure contained by the annuluar preventer.
The majority of annular preventers currently in use are
manufactured by:
• Hydril
MSP, GK, GL, and GX
• Shaffer
Spherical
• Cameron
Model “D”

Annular Preventers
Hydril GL
• Will close on open hole, but not
recommended.
• Some wellbore pressure sealing
assistance.
• Primarily designed for subsea
operations.
Has a secondary chamber and can be

rigged up to:
• Minimize closing/opening fluid
volumes.
• Reduce closing pressure.
• Compensate for marine riser
hydrostatic effects.
• Operate as a secondary closing
chamber.
Hydril GX
• Seal on open hole

• Like the GK, the wear plate and
packing element are field
replaceable.
• Available up to 15,000 psi.

Annular Preventers
Well Assist
• The unique feature of Hydril annular

preventers is well- Pressure assist on the
bottom of the operating piston.
• Well pressure applied from below helps

keep the annular closed.
Hydril Packing Elements

Annular Preventers
Shaffer Spherical Annular Preventer
Cameron Model D Annular Preventer

Operating Features
• Quick release top latch for easy element
change.
• Most sizes require less closing fluid than
Shaffer or Hydril.
• Overall height is less than Hydril and
Shaffer.
• Two piece packing unit.
• Requires 3000 psi closing pressure for
sealing an open hole and 1500 psi on the
pipe.

Ram Preventers
Basic ram operation is accomplished by

providing hydraulic pressure, supplied
by the accumulator, to the operating
chambers of the preventer. To close the
ram, hydraulic fluid is sent to the
closing chambers and acts on the
piston causing the ram to close. At the
same time, hydraulic fluid is routed
from the opening chambers back to the
accumulator. The opening sequence is
the opposite. Hydraulic fluid sent to the
opening chambers acts on the pistons
causing the rams to open. Fluid
contained in the closing chambers is
sent back to the accumulator.
Ram Types
Ram type BOPs are designed and available to seal the annulus between the various
tubulars (or open hole) that may be present within the BOP cavity.
Pipe rams
• Standard pipe rams are designed to centralize
and pack-off around one specific size of
drillpipe or casing.
Variable Bore Rams (VBRs)
• Variable bore rams are designed to seal-off on
a “group” of pipe sizes. Hang-off capacity may
be diminished with some sizes and types.
Blind and Blind/Shear Rams
• Blind rams are designed to seal on “open” hole.
Blind/shear rams are designed to shear some
sizes of tubulars (not the tool joint) and then
provide a seal on the resulting open hole.
Casing Rams
• Casing rams are available to provide pack-off
on the casing annulus when running casing.
Casing shear rams are also available but may
require “ booster ” pistons or higher closing
pressure to assure shearing of certain sized
casings.
Ram Preventers
Ram Features
Self Feeding Elastomer Packing
The front elements of ram seals have steel “extrusion” plates bonded to the rubber. As
the rams close the steel plates meet and begin to force elastomer to pack into the
sealing area. When stripping, the front face of the ram sealing element will wear. This
self-feeding feature will allow the sealing to be maintained during the stripping
operation.
Secondary Ram Shaft Seal
On many ram preventers there is a “weep hole” located on the under side of the
preventer body. This hole is lined up with the “travel” of the ram. The weep hole is
actually in line with secondary rod shaft seals and is there to indicate leaks in those
seals. If needed, the cap screw is removed and using an allen wrench, plastic sealant
is injected through a check valve and around the ram shaft between seals to
temporarily stop the leak.

Ram Preventers
Secondary or Emergency Mud Seal
• The figure shows the secondary mud
seal on a NL Shaffer ram type BOP.
• The secondary seal is a plastic

packing injected into an exterior
groove around the ram shaft.
• As more plastic is injected and seals

off between the ram shaft and the
interior body off the preventer.
• The secondary mud seal should only

be used in an emergency and is only
usable once.
Ram Locking Device

Many rams feature a manual locking
device. The lock is activated after the
ram is in the fully closed position. In this
case, a ram manufactured by Hydril, is
locked by clockwise rotation of the tail
rod. The locking device travels down
the lead screw and contacts the back of
the piston mechanically locking into the
closed position. The locking device
must be backed out in order to re-open
the ram.
Should hydraulics fail, the locking

device can be used to close the ram. If
this is done, the ram can only be re-
opened hydraulically.

Ram Preventers
U Blowout Preventer Wedgelock Assembly
Hydril MPL Ram Lock
The MPL Locking mechanism is

controlled by a unidirectional
clutch and lock nut. The clutch
maintains the nut and ram in a
locked position until the clutch is
disengaged by applying
hydraulic opening pressure.
This disengages the clutch
plates permitting the lock nut to
freely rotate and the ram to
open. The ram will stay closed
and locked even if closing
pressure is bled to 0 psi.

Ram Preventers
Ram Locking Device
Shaffer Pos – Lock Ram Lock

As closing pressure is applied the piston along with the locking cone moves inward and
closes the ram. When the piston reaches the fully closed position, the locking
segments slides toward the piston OD over the locking shoulder because the locking
cone is forced inward by closing hydraulic pressure and spring action.
The locking cone holds the locking segments in position. It acts like a second piston
inside the main piston and is forced inward by closing pressure and outward by
opening pressure.
As opening pressure is applied, the locking cone moves outward causing the locking
segments to slide toward the piston ID along a tapered locking shoulder. The piston
then freely moves to the fully open position.
One note of interest – the Pos-Lock may not allow for self-feeding of ram rubber
elements in worn rams as it locks in one position only.

Ram Preventers
Hydril Ram with Manual Ram Lock
This model is available in sizes ranging from 7 1/16” to 11” and pressure ratings as
high as 20000 psi.

Ram Preventers
Various Ram Block Types by Shaffer
• Center the ram before
closing bonnet.
• Ram should not be installed

upside down.
Shaffer Shear Rams
1. Upper Holder 2. Lower Holder 3. Upper Ram Block 4. Lower Ram Block
5. Upper Rubber 6. Lower Rubber 7. Lower Shear Blade 8. Retainer Screw
9. O- Ring 10. Retainer Ring 11. Allen Screw 12. O –Ring
13. Washer
Ram Preventers
Cameron Type U Ram

Ram Preventers
Closing/Opening Ratios

Stack Connections, Gaskets, and Ring Grooves
BOP Stack Connections
Connection Types
• Flanged, studded or clamp – hub.
• Flanged by stud connection uses least
headroom.
• Flanged bolts must be torqued correctly.
• Flanged bolts must be correct material to
withstand load due to torque – (API).
API Ring Joints
• Ring gaskets used for metal to metal seal
• Used between preventers and on side
outlets
• Seal inside a machined stainless steel
inlaid ring groove Note:
• API Spec 6A describes these components Some RX and all BX
• R series gaskets are not interchangeable rings have a hole (.16
inch or .12 inch in
with BX gaskets
diameter) drilled
• RX and BX gaskets are “pressure through the height of
energized” the ring for pressure
• Coated ring gaskets are not acceptable
* Acceptable material for flange ring gaskets, as per API spec 6A, “Wellhead Equipment”
• Sweet Oil – Low Carbon Steels
• Sour Oil or Gas – Type – 16 Stainless Steel or Type 304 Stainless Steel
** In some H2S applications, ASTM A-193 Gr B/M with a maximum Rockwell hardness of 22 may be
acceptable. If used, flanges should be derated per Table 1.4 B of API 6A

Hydraulically Operated Valves
• A remotely operated valve is installed on the choke line
adjacent to the BOP stack to rapidly shut-off hazardous
flow in the event of downstream equipment failure. Also,
this valve is usually difficult to reach by hand making
hydraulic operation much more feasible.
• These valves must be rated WOGM (water, oil, gas, or
mud flow.) The hydraulic actuator must be designed for
3000 psi maximum working pressure but should fully
open the valve with 1500 psi control pressure.
• Cameron introduced the HCR (high closing ratio) as the
first remotely controlled valve for choke line service.
This valve has the same basic design and operational
features as the Cameron QRC preventer. Because the
HCR is limited to 5000 psi working pressure, the advent
of 10,000 psi and higher working pressure BOP
required additional valve development. Currently,
Cameron’s Type-F hydraulically operated gate valve is
probably the most widely used and is available with
rated working pressures from 3000 psi to 15,000 psi.
• The Shaffer choke line valve is Type DB and is rated for
5000 psi, 10,000 psi, and 15,000 psi working pressure.
API Type R Ring Gasket

The type R joint gasket is not energized by internal pressure. Sealing takes place along
small band of contact between the grooves and the gasket, on both the OD and ID of the
gasket. The gasket may either be octagonal or oval in cross section. The Type R does not
allow face-to- face contact between the hubs or the flanges so external loads are
transmitted through the sealing surfaces of the ring. Vibration and external loads may
cause the small bands of contact between the ring and the grooves to deform plastically, so
that the joint may develop a leak unless the flange bolting is tightened periodically.
Standard procedure with Type R joints in the BOP stack is to tighten the flange bolting
weekly

API Type RX Gasket
The RX pressure energized ring seals along small bands of contact between the grooves
and the OD of the gasket. The gasket is made slightly larger than the grooves and is
compressed when the flange is made up. The RX does not allow face-to-face contact
between the hubs or the flange. The gasket has large load bearing surfaces to transmit
external loads without plastic deformation of the sealing surfaces. The manufacturer
recommends that a new ring be used each time the flange is broken.
API Type BX Gasket

The BX pressure energized ring was designed for face-to-face contact of the hubs or
flanges. Sealing takes place along small bands between the grooves and the OD of the
gasket. The gasket is made slightly larger than the grooves and is compressed when the
flange is made up. Without face-to-face contact, vibration and external loads can cause
plastic deformation of the ring which can lead to leaks. The BX is frequently
manufactured with axial holes to ensure pressure balance since both the Id and OD of
the gasket may contact the grooves.

API Face – to – Face RX Gasket
The face-to-face type RX ring gasket seals along small bands of contact between the
grooves and the OD of the gasket. The gasket is slightly larger than the grooves so
compression as the flange is made up is used to effect sealing. Face-to-face contact of
the flange leaves the ID of the gasket unsupported and excessive loads can lead to
leaks.
Cameron Face – to – Face RX Gasket

This is a modified RX ring that is pressure energized. The modification prevents
possible leaks caused by buckling of the ring gasket. Sealing takes place along small
bands of contact between the grooves and the OD of the gasket. The gasket is made
slightly larger than the grooves so compression of making up the assists in acquiring
the seal.

Cameron AX Gasket
Sealing takes place along small bands of contact between the grooves and the OD of
the gasket. The gasket is slightly larger than the grooves so compression as the flange
is made up assists in sealing. External loads are transmitted entirely through the hub
faces and cannot damage the gasket.
Manual and Hydraulic Valves
• Gate valves, either manually or hydraulically operated, are an integral part of the
BOP System. They are found on manifolds and as accessory items on the BOP
stack.
• They should be of the same pressure rating as the BOP stack and tested along
with the BOP’s at both low and high pressures.
• The valves at right are manufactured by Shaffer and are specifically designed for
use on circulating manifolds in either drilling or workover/completion environments.

Valves
Drillstring Safety Valve
The TIW valve pictured below

serves as a means of
containing the drill string during
well control events that occur
while tripping. The valve is
designed to hold 10,000 psi
from either direction and is
available in pressure ratings
above 10,000 psi.
Illustrated here is the standard and full bore models.
Inside BOP’s
Allows Pumping Down Through String – Holds Pressure Loaded from Below
Conventional Type Inside BOP
The inside BOP is a type of float valve

which can be pumped through from
the top but will hold pressure from
below this tool. It consists of a spring
loaded valve and a releasing tool.
Unlike the drillpipe safety it is not full
opening.
The inside BOP should be made upon

a closed safety valve whenever the
string needs to be stripped to bottom.

Valves
Inside BOP’s
Landing Sub or Pumpdown Valve

The valve is designed to provide a downhole inside BOP when needed. The
sub is run in the string usually one stand above the collars, and the
“pumpdown” dart is dropped or pumped down and Seated.
Drop or Pump Down Non-Return Inside BOP
Ensure:
• Dart fits the sub body prior to
making up to drill string.
• There are no smaller ID,s in the
drill string that will prevent dart
from reaching sub
• Normally located one std above
the HWDP
May be retrieved with an overshot run

on wire line

Valves
Drillstring Float Valves
Disadvantages:
• Cannot read SIDPP
• Cannot reverse circulate
• Must stop to fill drill string
• Higher surge pressures when RIH
Accumulator and Control Systems

The accumulator and control system provides the means to individually close and
open each BOP and valve conveniently, rapidly, repeatedly, and at the correct
operating pressure. The equipment should be designed to operate in emergencies
when primary rig power may not be available.
Essential elements of the

accumulator and control system:
• Power source(s)
• Control manifolds
• Accumulators
• Pipework / hose bundle and
wiring connections

Manifold Pressure Accum ulator
Accum ulator Unit/Rem ote Gauge (1,500 psi) Annular
Pressure
Bank (160 Sw itch Pressure
Transducer
gals) Transducer
Annular Manifold
Regulato Pressure
Accum ulator r Transduc
Pressure er
Accum ulator Gauge
Intertek Consulting & Training

Bank (3,000 psi)
Isolation
Valves
Hi/Lo
Bypass
Annular
Manifold Pressure
Regulato Gauge (500
r to 1,500 psi)
Accumulator and Control System
Reservoir
(2 x tim es
usable
fluid) Hydro-
pneumati
IWCF Well Control

c
Accum ulator Pressure
Pressure Sw itch
Relief Valve
(3,500 psi)
Check-valve
Prim ary (electric)
Charge Pump Secondary (air)
Prim ary Charge 3 Position, 4 Way, Pum ps
Hydro-electric Pressure
Pum p Control Box Manipulator Valve
Sw itch (90%)
Page 117
Closed Valves When Drilling
Closed
Valves

Surface Accumulator Bottles
Boyles Law
P1 = 1,000 psi
V1 = 10 gal
P1 x V1 = V2
P2
Pre-charge bladder with
Nitrogen to 1,000 psi Boyles Law calculates only for GAS
volume and pressures.
Volume inside bladder = 10

gal/gas
SUB SEA PRE-CHARGED TO 1000psi PLUS HP OF SEAWATER
Turn on accumulator pumps and charge to maximum

operating pressure of 3,000 psi
P2 = 3,000 psi
P1 = 1,000 psi
V2 3.33
gal/gas P1 x V1 = V2
V1 = 10 gal
…P2
P2 = 3000 psi
6.67
gal/fluid 1,000 psi x 10 gal = 3.33 gal/GAS
…...3,000 psi…….
10 gal – 3.33 gal/gas = 6.67 Gal/ fluid

Surface Accumulator Bottles
Minimum operating pressure = 1,200 psi
(200 psi above pre-charge)
P2 = 1,200 psi
P1 = 1,000 psi
P1 x V1 = V2
…P2 V1 = 10 gal
8.33 P2 = 1200 psi

gal/ga
s 1,000 psi x 10 gal = 8.33 gal/gas
…...1,200 psi…….
1.67
gal/fluid
10 gal/gas – 8.33 gal/gas= 1.67 Gal/fluid
Accumulator Bottle Sizing
6.67 gal/fluid
-
1.67 gal/fluid
Equals 5.00 gallons of

USABLE fluid per bottle with
1200 psi operating pressure
5.00 gal
6.67 usable
gal/fluid fluid
1.67
gal/fluid

Sizing Worksheet
Required Info:
Precharge psi
System psi
Total Bottle Volume
Available
Useable Volume (
= Precharge - Precharge
Final System ) x Bottle Volume
NOTE: The available useable volume must be equal to or greater

than the required useable volume!

Standpipe & Choke Manifolds
Standpipe Manifold
For 10,000 psi and 15,000 psi BOP systems, it is acceptable to use 5000 psi
standpipe manifold, but the isolation valve should be the same pressure rating as
the BOP stack, as should the connecting pipework.
The primary purpose of a “manifold” is to allow flexibility with regard to circulation
paths. The manifold shown at right allows one mud pump to be lined up on the
annulus (through kill line) and the second to the kelly or circulating head.

Intertek Consulting & Training
Differences in pressure readings
between the standpipe gauge and
choke gauges result due to transient
pressure effects. For well control
purposes readings should always be
taken at the choke manifold.
IWCF Well Control

Page 123
Control Chokes
Another important part of the BOP System are the chokes. Their main function is to
provide a means of back pressure during well killing operations that involves circulation of
fluid into and out of the wellbore. Chokes are manufactured in both manual and remotely-
operated configurations with the orifice size either being fixed or adjustable.
Several styles of adjustable chokes are
available and range from dart and seat, gate
and seat, to half moon discs. The fixed chokes
incorporate a choke bean of a specific size and
can be changed as desired, but because of the
time involved in changing the bean size, and the
fact that back pressure during a kill operation
may have to be altered somewhat quickly, the
fixed choke is not the tool of choice. And since
chokes are part of the BOP System they must
be tested at both high and low pressures when Typical Choke
the rest of the BOP Systems is tested. Control Panel
Additionally, they should be of the same
pressure rating as the BOPs and choke
manifold onto which they are installed.
Accuracy of Pressure Gauge Readings
The accuracy of a gauge reading depends on the

range of the gauge in use.
The three gauges on this page all indicate a value of

770 psi. Gauge 1 indicates the proper pressure
reading.

Swaco Choke – Choke Mechanism
The Swaco choke uses tungsten carbide “half-moon” discs to create the
restrictions necessary to control circulating pressures. One disc is stationary while
the other rotates as per hydraulic signals received from the choke control panel.
Cameron Type Choke Panel

Cameron Choke Mechanism
Test Plugs and Test Joints for testing above w/head
• The hanger type test plug has a steel

body with outer dimensions to fit the
hanger recess of corresponding types of
casing heads.
• An “0” ring pressure seal is provided

between the tester and the hanger
recess, as shown in the drawing
opposite.
• The tester is available in various sizes

depending on wellhead type and size
and is equipped with tool joint
connections.

Type “F” Cup Type Tester
• There are several makes of test plugs are

available for testing BOP stacks.
• The testing tool arrangement should provide

for testing the bottom blowout preventer
flange.
• Test plugs generally fall into two types:

• hanger type
• cup type (opposite).
• For testing below w/head
Pressure, Force, and Area
Pressure, by definition, is equal to the force exerted by the weight of an object divided
by the area the force is acting upon.
Surface area of Very Important Concept !

piston = 100 sq
Force 1000 lbs
inches Pressure on Gauge = = = 10 psi
Area 100 sq in
1000 lbs
Note: Force = Pressure x Area
Example:
What would be the force acting on a 2 7/8 “ OD tubing
string closed in on a well with 2500 psi shut-in pressure?
Area = .7854 x 2.875 2 = 6.49 sq in
Pressure Gauge Force = 6.49 x 2,500 = 16,225 lbs

Mud Gas Separator
Typical Mud Gas Separator
Vacuum Type Degassers

Fluid is drawn into the vessel by
vacuum pressure where it spills out
over the baffle plate and gas is
extracted. Degassed fluid exits the
vessel and gas is vented.

Degassers
Vacuum Type Degassers

This vacuum degasser by Demco utilizes vacuum pressure to pull fluid into the vacuum
tank where it impinges against the tank roof and spills out on the baffle plates increasing
the surface area of the fluid. Vacuum pressure extracts the gas and sends it into the gas
line while the majority of the degassed fluid falls to the bottom of the tank. The gas enters
the centrifugal chamber where a second separation takes place. Gas is vented from the
separator at the top and any remaining degassed fluid exits at the bottom of the
separator.
Flow Returns Sensor

The fluid or mud return indicator (flow line sensor) is
used to detect and signal a change in mud flow return
rate. The device consists of a pre-positioned hinged
paddle in the flow line and a transmitter system to signal
the Driller’s console when the position of the paddle is
affected by a change in flow rate.
• The mud return indicator should be checked

frequently to ensure there are no obstructions to the
paddle movement.
• Operations can be checked by varying the pump rates

and observing the changes in signals of flow from the
unit
• Maintain High and Low Level alarm settings to proper

values for early kick detection!
Degassers
Pump – Type Trip Tank
BOP Testing – API RP 53 Guidelines
• An initial pressure test should be conducted on all preventer installations prior to

drilling the casing plug.
• Subsequent pressure tests of BOP equipment should be performed after setting

a casing string, prior to entering a known pressure transition zone, and after a
preventer ram and/or any preventer stack or choke manifold component
change, but no less than once every 21 days.
• Equipment should be tested to at least 70 percent of the rated working pressure,

but limited to the lesser of the rated working pressure of the wellhead or 70
percent of the minimum internal yield pressure of the upper part of the casing,
however, in no case should these or subsequent test pressures be less than the
expected surface pressures.

Subsea
Well Control

Shallow Water Flows
Subsea Well Control Techniques
A number of factors make Subsea Well Control procedures unique. They are:
• Reduced Formation Fracture Gradients
• BOP Location
• Length of Riser
• Choke/Kill Lines
• Vessel Motion
Important Considerations are:

1. Kick Detection
2. Fracture Gradients
3. Loss of Riser Hydrostatic Pressure
4. Close-in Procedures
5. Shallow Hole Kicks
6. Hydrates
7. Choke Line Friction
8. Gas In The Choke Line
9. Displacing The Riser With Kill Fluid Weight
Shallow Water Flows

Three Requirements
1. Increased Pore Pressure due

to High Sedimentation Rates
2. Presence of a Top Seal
(impermeable barrier)
3. Permeable Sand
Why Drill Through?? -To Gain Frac Gradient

Shallow Hole Kicks

Drilling Riserless
Drilling Riserless
A gas blowout in open water produces a cone of low density water and a discharge
of highly flammable gas. The intensity of the blowout depends on the water depth
and current. The plume will be more dispersed with deeper water and the current
would likely push the gas plume away from the rig. Gas plumes beneath a floating
rig could cause a loss of buoyancy but this loss decreases with increasing water
depth.
At shallower depths a vessel moored would be more at risk of capsizing. Fire
would also be a major threat, if the gas cloud were to immediately surround the rig.
The following precautions should be considered prior to and during the surface hole
section:
• The rig should be moored with length of moorings remaining in the locker
enabling the rig to be winched away from any plume.
• All hatches should be secured to prevent invasion of flammable gas or
down-flooding, if the freeboard is reduced by loss of buoyancy or heel.
• Personnel should be continuously available at short notice to slack off the
moorings closest to the plume and heave-in those up-current (but not
downwind).
• Control drill a pilot hole at a high circulating rate to distribute the cuttings
and drilled gas.
• Run a float in the drillstring.
• Maintain sufficient volume of a weighted mud that could be rapidly diluted
and pumped as kill fluid.
• Monitor weather conditions and current and have watch posted for
evidence of gas

Subsea Concerns
Reduced Fracture Gradients
• Formation fracture gradient on land is a direct function

of the weight of the rock overburden above.
• Offshore, an amount of rock is replaced by seawater.
• The difference in densities between rock and water
overburden reduces the fracture gradient.
EXAMPLE:
2 – 8,000 ft wells
Land Well Overburden Stress = 8,000 x 1.0 = 8000 psi

Offshore Well Overburden Stress = (1,800 x .445) + (6,200 x 1) = 7001 psi

Subsea Concerns
Maximum Mud Weight

Subsea Concerns
Based on the information given, calculate:
Water Depth = 3300 ft

Air gap = 85 ft
RKB to Shoe = 9243 ft
Sea water gradient = .445 psi/ft
Mud Weight = 11.2 ppg
Riser Margin & Resulting Mud Weight
Riser Hydrostatic Pressure = psi
.052  11.2PPG  3300Feet  85Feet   1971psi
Seawater Hydrostatic Pressure = psi
.445psi / ft  3300feet  1469psi
Loss in Hydrostatic Pressure = psi

1971PSI Riser Hydrostatic  1469psi Sea Water Hydrostatc  502psi
Riser Margin = ppg

502psi
 1.65ppg
.052  9243  3300  85
Resulting Mud Weight = ppg

11.2ppg Mud Weight  1.65PPG Riser Mgn.  12.85  12.9PPG

Gas in the Riser

Riser Collapse/Disconnect
Accidental Causes of Kicks
Accidental Riser Disconnect

• Riser can be accidentally disconnected due to vessel drive offs, hydraulic control
problems, riser failure, etc.
• Bottomhole pressure will be reduced due to net loss of hydrostatic pressure.
In this example, BHP would be reduced by:
• Mud Loss
= 1770 x 10.8 x .052 = 994 psi
• Seawater HP
= 1710 x 0.445 psi/ft = 761 psi
• Net Loss
= 994 – 761 = 233 psi

Riser Collapse/Disconnect
Causes of Kicks
Lack of Riser Margin
• Prior to planned riser disconnect, riser must be displaced to seawater. (MMS)
• The loss of hydrostatic pressure is compensated for by adding a “riser margin” to
the remaining mud column.
• Hydrostatic Loss (from previous example)

= 233 psi
• Remaining mud column

= 8000 ft - 1770 ft = 6230 ft
• Riser Margin
= 233 ÷ 6230 ÷ .052
• Mud Weight
= 10.8 + .72 = 11.52 ppg

Hydrates
Natural gas hydrates are ice-like crystals composed of water and natural gas
molecules. Under favorable conditions of high pressure and low temperature, water
molecules form cages which encapsulate gas molecules inside a hydrogen bonded
solid lattice. Deepwater drilling conditions are ideally suited for hydrate production.
Ingredients Necessary for Hydrate Formation:
• Free Water
• Natural Gas
• Reduced Temperature
• Increased Pressure
The main approach to prevention is to minimize the free water available. Oil base
muds contain little if any free water and are very effective at preventing hydrate
formation.
Prevention
• Remove any of the 4 ingredients

• Oil Based Muds (no free water)
• Thermodynamic inhibitors
• Salts
• Alcohols, Methanols, Glycols
Remedies
• Pull BOPs
• Inhibitors
• Increase temperature
• Radial heat tracing
• Circulate hot water (CT/Boost line)
• Drill up (CT)
• Implications - gas breaks out at 180:1

Choke Line Friction
Choke and Kill Line Considerations
• Subsea choke and kill lines require flexible
connections at the ball/flex joint and the
telescoping joint.
• Choke and kill line valves are “fail-safe” and
hydraulically operated.
• Choke and kill lines should be anchored to
withstand vibration.
• The C & K lines across the ball/flex joint
should be flexible and not restrict movement
of the joint up to its maximum designed
deflection.
• Targeted tees should be used for all 90°
bends.
• Both the C & K line should be “manifolded”
into the choke manifold to allow one to
replace or augment the other.
• BOP should provide stabs for ROV
intervention in emergency situations or when
primary control system has failed.
Determining Slow Circulating Rate Pressure
• Pump down drillstring with returns up

riser to obtain SCRP at various speeds.
• SCRP used in calculating ICP and FCP

on kill sheet.

Choke Line Friction
Determining Choke Line Friction Pressure
• Line up equipment to pump down kill line

and up choke line. Open choke fully.
• Pump at same pump rates used to obtain

SCRPs.
• Pressure on gauge is divided by 2 is CLFP.
• Important to close a ram below choke line

outlet.
Choke Line Friction Pressure
• Line up surface equipment to pump down

choke line with returns up the riser.
• Pressure on choke manifold gauge is CLFP.
• Obtain CLFP at the same pump rates used

in obtaining SCRPs.
• Other methods exist but this is the fastest,

simplest technique and does not exert
excess pressure on the formation.

Choke Line Friction
• Before drilling float collar and shoe take normal SCRPs down drillstring with returns
up riser
• Line up equipment and take SCRPs through chokeline (with choke fully open)
• CLFP = SCRPchokeline - SCRPriser
Note: Regardless of method used, CLFP must be adjusted for increases in mud weight.
New CLFP

Choke Line Friction
• Line up equipment to pump down kill

line and up choke line. Open choke
fully.
• Pump at same pump rates used to

obtain SCRPs.
• Pressure on gauge is divided by 2 is

CLFP.
• Important to close a ram below choke

line outlet.
Choke Line Friction
First, conventional slow pump rates

are taken by pumping down the drill
string, up the annulus and the riser.
The pump pressures and rates used
are recorded.

Choke Line Friction
1700psi  1500psi  200psi

One method of determining choke line
friction pressure entails the following:
• Shut in a BOP above a choke line.
• Open the fail safe valves on the choke
line.
• Circulate down the drill string, up the
annulus, into the choke line, and
through an open choke in the choke
manifold.
Choke line friction pressure is obtained by
calculating the difference between this
observed pump pressure and the pump
pressure that was recorded previously at
the same rate.

Choke Line Friction
400psi
 200psi
2
Another means of determining choke
line friction can be done by:
• Shut-in BOP’s above and below
choke and kill outlets
• Open the fail safe valves on the
choke and kill lines
• Pump down the kill line, across the
stack and up the choke line
Choke line friction pressure is
determined by dividing the observed
pump pressure in half.

Choke Line Friction
Choke Line and Kill Line Considerations
Date: 1/7/99 3” ID Choke and Kill Lines
Depth: 9,441 ft Water Depth: 5,491 ft Mud Weight: 10.5 ppg
Pump Output: 0.1394 bps Viscosity: 45 sec/qt YP: 20 (15 @ 1200 F)
(1) Pressure drop through (2) Record pressure drop through bit and up
bit and up riser: choke line (closed annular):
Kill Monitor
7 spm 60 psi 7 spm 170 psi
70 psi
100 psi
140 psi
330 psi
550 psi
770 psi
(3) Without shutting down, open (4) Calculate the CLFPs

the kill line and record pressures:
Up Choke Line Down Choke Line
Both choke and Kill (measured)
7 spm 110 psi
7 spm 140 psi
14 spm 200 psi 14 spm 150 psi 160 psi
20 spm 240 psi 20 spm 180 psi 180 psi
30 spm 390 psi 400 psi
30 spm 340 psi
50 spm 830 psi
50 spm 620 psi
Both Choke and Kill
7 spm 80 psi
14 spm 110 psi
20 spm 120 psi
30 spm 170 psi
40 spm 200 psi
50 spm 280 psi

Drillstring
Drillstring Motion & BOP Wear
The Driller must always take into account the heave of the vessel when handling of
the drillstring. When the pipe is hanging in the blocks and apparently standing still in
relation to the rotary, the drillpipe may be working up and down in the hole through
the preventers. This motion can cause wear on the drillpipe and BOPs. If the
weather dictates and it becomes necessary to close in the well; the drillpipe must be
hung-off on a preventer. When the drillpipe is hung-off, care must be taken to permit
the tool joint in the elevators to have freedom of movement.
The driller must take into account the rise and fall of the sea surface due to tidal
action. The dimensions from the rotary to the subsea rams must be available and
posted on the rig floor at all times. The driller should know the correct “space-out” of
all string components.
It is not advisable to work pipe through a closed preventer.
ROV Intervention
The Remote Operated Vessel (ROV) is the

arms and eyes below water. It’s purpose is
to perform tasks with cameras and
manipulators in support of the drilling
operation. Critical stack functions are
equipped with a hydraulic over-ride
intervention system operated through stabs
which have fluid supplied from a 5000 psi 6
gpm pump on the ROV.
The subsea BOP should be equipped with
control panels for live intervention with BOP
functions. A “dummy” training panel should
also be installed.
Functions Hot Stabs Should Include:
• BOP wellhead and LMRP connectors,
primary and secondary unlock.
• Ring gasket release for wellhead and
LMRP connectors.
• Upper and Lower shear rams; closing.

Subsea Procedures

Shut-in Procedures
Shut – in Well
If kick warning signs are observed:
• Pick up and space out tool joint for BOP closure.
• Close upper annular. Open upper choke line valve.
• Record time, SIDP, SICP, and pit gain. Close diverter, line up to monitor riser
for flow.
• Locate tool joint with upper annular. Close ram. Lower annular pressure and
hang off drillpipe.
• Open annular, open upper kill line valve, use kill line gauge as monitor to bring
well on choke.
General Well Shut-In Procedures
• Shut-in well with appropriate

procedure.
• Allow pressure to stabilize.
• Gauge reading may include

trapped pressure, check
before recording.
• Record gauge readings, pit

gain and begin kill sheet.

Shut-in Procedures
Pump Start-Up Considerations
A special procedure is required to
minimize the impact of choke line
friction pressures when initiating the
mud pumps. If the shut-in casing
pressure was held constant on the
choke line side when bringing pumps
up to kill speed, the choke line friction
pressure would be placed as an
“extra” pressure on the open hole. As
a result casing pressure must be
reduced by choke line friction by the
amount of the choke line friction.
As an alternative kill line pressure can
be held constant while bringing pumps
up to kill rate.
Pump Start-Up Procedure

Pump Start-Up
Pump Start-Up Constant BHP
Shut-in Casing is reduced by Choke

Line Friction. Kill Monitor Pressure
Remains Constant
Procedure:
Hold Kill Monitor Gauge constant as

pump is brought up to kill rate.
OR
Reduce choke line gauge by

appropriate amount (CLF) as pump is
brought up to kill rate.
Subsea Gauges at Stack For Choke

and Kill Line Remain Equal
Pump Shut-Down Constant BHP
Shut-in Casing is increased by Choke

Line Friction. Kill Monitor Pressure
Remains Constant
Procedure:
Hold Kill Monitor Gauge constant as

pump is shut down.
OR
Increase choke line gauge by

appropriate amount (CLF) as pump is
brought up to kill rate.
Subsea Gauges at Stack For Choke

and Kill Line Remain Equal

Pump Start-Up
Effect of Chokeline Friction Later in Kill
• All influx out of wellbore
• Pump rate remains at 30 SPM
• Choke is 100% open
• Drillpipe pressure is rising
• What is the drillpipe pressure at this
time?
• What is the kill line pressure at this
time? (10.8 ppg mud in kill line)
• What is the circulating BHP?
• If we stopped the pumps and shut in
the well, what would the SICP be?
Minimizing CLF Effect Later in Kill

Method 1:
• Reducing pump speed to 50% cuts CLF in line to
25%
• 200 x .25 = 50 psi
• Remember – FCP will also be reduced
Method 2:
• Flowing through 2 lines reduces flowrate in each
line to 50%
• CLF in each line is then 25% or 50 psi
• Adopt one of these methods before the casing
pressure reaches zero and the choke is fully
open.
• If reducing pump speed, use proper constant
BHP technique.
• When KWM reaches C and K lines, it may be
impossible to avoid some overbalance, but the
effect is reduced by these methods.

Pump Start-Up
Hydrostatic Swap-Out as Gas Enters Choke Line
• Gas at choke line, wellbore • Gas fills choke line, wellbore fluids
fluids as shown on drawing. as shown on drawing
• What is about to happen to • Casing pressure must rise to
the casing pressure? maintain BHP
• Choke is closed to compensate for
reduced friction
Dead Man System (DMS) Design Criteria

The purpose of the DMS is to secure the well in the
event of a parted riser caused by a drift-off or drive-off
of a DP vessel. The DMS should respond
automatically and not require manual initiation, hence
the name “dead man”.
The system will auto sense all of the above and initiate
the DMS. Battery power will provide electrical power
and signal and the subsea accumulators will provide
hydraulic fluid power.
Will initiate if the following conditions are fulfilled:
• Loss of hydraulic supply, both conduit and hot
line.
• Loss of electrical power supply.
• Loss of electrical signal.
• Subsea accumulators are charged.
• DMS selector switch at panel is in “ARM”
position.
Stack Gas Clearing
Trapped Gas in BOP Stack
Stack Gas is DANGEROUS!

• Consider that for:
• MW = 14.6 ppg
• Water Depth = 850 ft
• Air Gap = 80 ft
• Volume increase surface
• P1V1 = P2V2
P1 = (14.6 x .052 x 930) + 14.6 psi = 720.66 psi
V1 = 8.0 bbls
P2 = 14.6 psi
(720.66)(8) = (14.6)V 2
V2 = 395 bbls
• Unloading riser could cause riser collapse.
• Surface equipment cannot tolerate gas flowrate (slip joint packer, shakers,
gumbo buster).
• Hazard to personnel: 4 fatalities plus 3 severe injuries from one rig incident.
WE MUST REMOVE GAS SAFELY.

Stack Gas Clearing
Stack Gas Clearing
After killing the well and riser, the pipe is still hung-
off.
Step 1.
• Close upper annular and surface diverter.
• Close boost valve and upper choke valve.
• Open upper kill line valves and annular sweep valves.
• Circulate KWM down kill across BOP via sweep line.
Step 2.
• Take weight off of hang off ram, close lower pipe ram, and
set annular closing pressure at 1500 psi.
• Continue circulating down kill and out sweep line.
Step 3.
• Open upper pipe rams, and hang off on lower pipe rams.
• Close upper kill line valves and open lower kill line valves.
• Circulate Kill Wt mud down kill line and up choke line
through sweep line according to gas units and mud weight.
Step 4.
• Open UA in stages by reducing closing pressure to allow
any gas below annular to seep into riser. Circulate out riser.
Shut down pumps, check pressures and flow from below

LPR. IF OK, open lower rams and close all stack valves.

Stack Gas Clearing
Stack Gas Cleanout
U-Tube Method - Well Killed w/Annular
Procedure:
1. Close lower preventer to isolate wellbore. Note: If not already done so, first
displace kill line and choke line and choke line with kill weight mud.
2. Line up and pump light-weight fluid (base oil or water) down the kill line through
the stack beneath the suspect preventer, taking returns up the vent line outlet
and choke line. Sweep complete volume of kill line, stack cavity, and choke line
to surface. Hold back pressure on kill line gauge (and ultimately choke line
gauge) to maintain constant “stack” pressure.
3. Stop pump and close kill line stack outlet valves, open annular against closed
choke and then open choke to u-tube gas from stack cavity through vent line
and up and out choke line. Some gas may remain in stack cavity.
4. Close annular and open kill line outlets and sweep base fluids from choke line
and kill line with kill weight mud. Vary pump speed to attempt to “flush”
remaining gas from stack cavity. Monitor gas units of returning fluid.

Subsea Equipment

BOP’s
Subsea Equipment & Components
Riser Tensioners
Used to maintain flex/ball joint angles
within specs as mud weight and marine
conditions change.
Divert System
Provides for similar function as a surface
stack type diverter system.
Telescoping Slip Joint
Slip joint allows for vessel heave so that
flow lines and surface connections remain
stationary. The flexible hose connectors
for the choke and kill lines terminate here.
Marine Riser
The marine riser is the primary flow path
for the mud circulated from the wellbore to
the surface. The riser is not capable of
high pressure mud sealing since it has to
connect to the seafloor BOPs and
compensate for rig motion.
Choke & Kill Lines
High pressure choke and kill lines are run
integral along the riser and provide for
high pressure circulation of the drilling
fluid.
Subsea BOP Package
The subsea BOPs include an “upper”
package consisting of a connector, flex
joint, and annular BOP (called the Lower
Marine Riser Package, LMRP) as well as
the main BOP stack and hydraulic
wellhead connector and BOP control
system.
Control POD
The hydraulic/electric control system
distribution PODs are located with the
lower marine riser package.

BOP’s
Subsea BOP Stack Features
Kill and Choke Isolation Valves
Prevent choke and kill line evacuation when planned or unplanned disconnects occur.
Riser Boost Line and Valve
To assist in hole cleaning when drilling smaller diameter holes caused by the reduced
AV of the mud in the larger ID riser. Can also be used to flush gas or “kill” the riser.
Gas Vent Line
Used to remove gas that may have accumulated beneath a closed annular during kick
pump-outs. Gas can accumulate beneath the preventer due to the “separator” effect
when gas influxes are circulated through the BOP and choke line.
Multiple Pipe Shear Rams
Dynamic positioning drill vessels have a greater need for the ability to rapidly shear
and disconnect. Usually redundant shears or shears for multiple drillpipe sizes are
included.
Casing Shear
Casing shears are generally provided on subsea stacks rigged for deepwater use.
Additional “booster” pistons are necessary for super shearing capabilities.
Pressure and Temperature Sensors
Electronic pressure and temperature sensors can be of great help when circulating
kicks and performing LOT, etc.

Fail Safe Valves
Spring Assist Closure Valves (Fail Safe Valves)
Marine Riser System

A marine riser system is used to provide a return fluid path from the wellbore to the
drilling vessel and to guide the drillstring and tools to the wellhead on the sea floor.
For a drilling vessel, the marine riser should have adequate strength to withstand:
• Loads while running and pulling the BOP stack.

• Forces from ocean currents, waves, and vessel movement and displacement.
• Loads from the riser weight, drilling fluid weight, and any freestanding pipe in the
riser.
Subsea ram preventers should be equipped with hydraulic locking mechanisms. The
lowermost ram should be used to close in the well when no other ram is available for
this purpose. Choke and kill lines installed below the lowermost set of rams should be
used for pressure testing and monitoring the well only.
Remotely Operated Connector

The connection to the riser and BOP is remotely operated for use during emergency
disconnect if conditions warrant. Engagement or disengagement of the connector with
the mating hub should be an operation that can be repeatedly accomplished with ease,
even for those conditions where some degree of misalignment exists.
Mechanical strength of the connector should be sufficient to safely resist loads that
might reasonably be anticipated during operations. This would include tension and
compression loads during installation, and tension and bending forces during both
normal operations and possible emergency situations.
Marine Riser System
Lower Marine Riser Package
This figure illustrates the main
components of the Lower Marine Riser
Package (LMRP) used for a Subsea
drilling operation.
Identify the listed components in this

illustration by matching the correct
part numbers to the description
The Lower Marine Riser Package
below.
(LMRP) connector should have a
4 a. Flexible choke/kill lines
pressure rating at least equal that of
the annular BOP. The pressure rating 7 b. Ball (flex) joint
of the wellhead connector should be at 2 c. Control Pod
least equal to that of the ram 1
preventers. LMRP and wellhead d. LMRP connector
connectors should have ring gaskets 6 e. Subsea accumulator bottles
designed to provide for metal-to-metal
sealing.
Marine Riser System

Flex Joint
A flexible joint is used in the marine riser system to minimize bending moments, stress
concentrations and problems of misalignment. The angle freedom of a flexible joint is
normally ten (10) degrees from vertical. A flexible joint is always installed at the bottom
the system just above the BOP stack. In deepwater operations, a flexible joint may
also be needed in the top of the system.
Investigations and experience have shown the importance of close monitoring of the
flexible joint angle during operations to keep it at a minimum. For continuous drilling
operations, the flex joint should be maintained as straight as possible, normally at an
angle of less than three (3) degrees. Greater angles cause undue wear or damage to
the drillstring, riser, BOPs, wellhead or casing.

Marine Riser System
Marine Riser System

Riser Sections
The riser should have minimum yield strength and fatigue characteristics well in
excess of those required, not only for the present but for reasonably anticipated future
conditions. Riser pipe is determined by the size of the BOP and wellhead with
allowance for clearance in running drilling assemblies, casing and casing hangers. A
20 – 22” OD marine riser would normally be used to run an 18 ¾” wellhead and BOP
stack.
Telescopic Joint
The telescopic joint serves as a connection between the marine riser and the drilling
vessel, compensating principally for heave of the vessel. It consists of two main
sections; the outer barrel (lower member) and the inner barrel (upper member).
The inner barrel (upper), which moves up and down within the outer barrel, is
connected to and moves with the drilling vessel. The top portion of the inner barrel has
either a drilling fluid return line or a diverter system attached.
The telescopic joint, either in the extended or contracted position, should be capable
of supporting any anticipated load while running or pulling the BOP stack; and should
have sufficient strength to safely resist stresses that might reasonably be anticipated
during operations. Stroke length of the inner barrel should provide a margin of safety
over and above the maximum established operating limits of heave for the vessel due
to wave and tidal action.
Tensioners
Tensioning at the top of the riser is one of the more important aspects of the riser
system, as it attempts to keep the riser profile as nearly straight as practicable and
reduces stresses to bending. As tensioning is increased, axial stress in the riser also
increases. Therefore, an optimum tension exists for a specific set of operating
conditions (water depth, current, riser weight, mud weight, vessel offset, etc.).

Marine Riser System
Riser Design Considerations
Collapse and Ball Joint Failure
Gas in Riser
Gas in the riser poses a severe risk to rig
personnel and equipment. The riser should
be killed any time the riser is flowing with the
pumps shut-off.
Fill Up Valves (Dump Valves)
Auto fill dump valves can help prevent riser
collapse due to gas expansion and the rapid
evacuation of drilling fluid. Dump valves are
usually located a few hundred feet from the
surface of the riser.
Riser Boost Line Valves

Riser boost valves can help during the riser kill and maintain fluid hydrostatic within
the riser. They are also used when increasing the riser mud weight to kill weight
value prior to opening of the BOPs during post kill operations.
Subsea Control Systems

Detailed specification for a particular application will be determined by the number,
size and pressure rating of the BOPS. Water depth will also influence the design of
subsea BOP systems.
Power Source
The primary power source should be by an electrical powered pump located at the
main accumulator unit. An air powered pump should be available to provide back -
up hydraulic fluid power for the system. For 3000 psi accumulator systems, the
pumps should be equipped with a pressure switch set to cut in a drop equal to 10%
of the system pressure.. The electric pump output should be twice that of the
secondary air pump. The combined output of the electric and air pumps should be
sufficient to charge the accumulator system from pre-charge to operating pressure
in less than 15 minutes and sufficient to close an annular preventer in less than 2
minutes (w/o accumulator assistance).
A stand-by air compressor piped to the back-up air pump should be provided at a
location away from the primary rig power source.
Where electric panels are used and for electro-hydraulic systems, a battery pack is
required and must be located greater than 150 ft from the wells axis.

Telescopic or Slip joint
Hydraulic System
A master hydraulic power unit supplies fluid to
both pilot and hydraulic lines via accumulator
bottles. The stack can be controlled from this unit
or from a remote control panel on the rig floor or
an electric mini-panel from alternate locations on
the rig.
Pilot and operating fluid is sent to the stack via
one of two hose bundles which terminates in a
pod (yellow or blue pod) mounted on the lower
marine riser package. The pods are identical, one
providing complete back-up for the other, either
one being selected from the control panels. A
typical hose bundle is made up of a 1” supply
hose for power fluid and up to 64 3/16” hoses for
pilot fluid. Inside each pod the pilot lines
terminate at pilot valves, each of which is
connected to the common power fluid supply.
When a particular stack function is selected, pilot
fluid pressure is directed down a pilot line to the
corresponding pilot valve in both pods. Both
valves then open allowing operating fluid to pass
through it then via a shuttle valve to the operating
cylinder. The shuttle valves, which are mounted
on the stack, allow the fluid to flow to the
operating cylinder from the one selected pod
only.
Hydraulic System
The operating fluid is stored in the accumulator bottles at 3000 psi. This pressure is
too high for normal operations; so control pods contain regulators in order that
closing pressures can be controlled as required – usually 1500 psi, though more if
the situation demands. The subsea regulator is controlled from the surface via a pilot
line and another line is used to return to a panel gauge the “readback” operating
pressure downstream of the regulator.
Each control pod is mounted on a receptacle on the lower riser package and can be
retrieved independently if repairs are necessary. While the stack is being run, the
hose bundle is fed out from a power driven reel which is equipped with a manifold so
that control of 5 or 6 stack functions can be maintained. Once the stack has been
landed and a sufficient hose run out then a special junction box on the reel enables
a quick connection to be made between the pod and the hydraulic unit.

An example SPM Valve
NL Shaffer Shuttle Valve

Hydraulic System
Some of the hydraulic power fluid is stored in accumulator bottles located on the
stack in order to reduce closure times and also to provide a surge chamber effect
for the annular preventers. All of the fluid on the low pressure side of a function is
eventually vented to the sea via the pilot valves. This requires the use of
environmentally-friendly operating fluid that is compatible with anti-freeze additives
when needed. Large volumes of fluid are prepared and stored near the hydraulic
unit and are transferred automatically to the accumulator by electrically driven
triplex pumps when the accumulator pressure falls below a pre-set level. The pilot
fluid circuit is a closed circuit.
A turbine flow meter on the hydraulic unit measures the volume of hydraulic fluid
used every time a function is operated, This can indicate whether or not a ram is
closing all the way, for example, or if there is a leak somewhere in the system.
Apart from the obvious CLOSE and OPEN positions, it is also possible to place a
function in the BLOCK position. In this position, the lines carrying pilot fluid have a
vented spring action in the pilot valves which shuts off the power fluid supply and
vents both sides of the operating piston.

Hydraulic Fluid
• Power Fluid – 3,000 psi - 5,000 psi
Main hydraulic fluid from the surface via 1”
line in hose bundle or “hot” line from the
surface; and/or from sub sea accumulator
bottles.
• Pilot Fluid – 3,000 psi
Pilot fluid operates SPM valves in control
pods. One 3/16” pilot line for each function
on the BOP stack. Pilot fluid is in a closed
dead-end system. Vented to reservoir tank
on surface. Pilot fluid and Power fluid may
be separate systems at the surface.
• Control “Regulated” Fluid – Less than
3,000 psi
Control fluid operates each function on the
BOP stack including the shuttle valves.
Control fluid is vented to sea during
function.
• Components of Hydraulic Fluid
Potable water, water soluble concentrate,
bactericide, corrosion inhibitor, and
antifreeze
Electro-Hydraulic Control System

The object of the BOP control system is to move sufficient power fluid, at the
required pressure, to the operating cylinder in minimum time. For very long lengths
of hose bundles (over 2000 feet) friction losses inside the small pilot lines result in
unacceptable closure times. If the diameter of these lines was increased, the hose
bundles would be too bulky to handle so an alternative to purely hydraulic control
systems is needed for deep water operations.
This is found in electro-hydraulic system in which 3/16” hydraulic pilot lines are
replaced by electrical lines which operate solenoid valves in the control pods. High
pressure is taken from the main power line in the pod under control of the solenoid
valve and is used as pilot pressure to open the pilot valve and thus allow regulated
power fluid through to the operating cylinder.
A further refinement to this system replaces all separate electrical lines in the hose
bundle with just two, down which coded multiplexed signals are transmitted. A
multiplex package in the control pod decodes these signals and activates the
corresponding solenoid valve.

Acoustic Control System

Although in both the control systems described redundancy is assured through the
use of two identical pods, a further independent system is sometimes desired for
complete back-up. To suit this requirement, acoustic control systems have been
designed which can operate certain vital stack functions even if the rig is forced off
location and is not physically attached to the wellhead.
Basically this system uses a portable battery powered surface control unit
connected to either a hull mounted or portable acoustic transducer to transmit an
acoustic signal to a receiver on the stack. The receiver and battery powered
subsea control unit respond to the signal and transmit a reply back to the surface.
A subsea valve package on the stack interfaces the acoustic signal and primary
hydraulic systems via shuttle valves. It contains solenoid valves powered by the
subsea battery pack (rechargeable only on the surface) and pilot valves.
Hydraulic System Fluid Flow

Hydraulic fluid consists of potable water,
ethylene glycol to prevent freezing, and
a biocide agent to prevent bacteria
growth. The fluid must be anti-pollutant .
An automatic mixing system is used and
the resultant fluid mix stored in a
reservoir. It is picked up by electric
pumps and/or air pumps and filtered to
40 microns.
The fluid then enters a bank of
accumulators where it is stored at a
maximum of 3000 psi. A typical
accumulator bottle arrangement with a
1000 psi precharge pressure is used.
The hydraulic fluid is also measured via
a flow meter. An accumulator pressure
gauge is located on the front of the
hydraulic manifold and a pressure
transducer transmits pressure readings
to the remote panels. A low accumulator
alarm switch closes whenever the
accumulator pressure falls below 1500
psi.

Hydraulic System Fluid Flow
The main line of hydraulic fluid flows through a check valve on its way to a manipulator
type valve which selects the pod which is to receive the main hydraulic supply. The pod
which receives the main hydraulic supply is called the active pod. The pod selector
valve is on the front of the accumulator unit and operates either manually or remotely
from a remote panel. When the main hydraulic supply flows from the valve to either of
the pods, the pressure activates one of the pressure switches in the output lines and
operates the appropriate pod indicator light on the remote panel. This gives remote
indication of the active pod.
Main hydraulic supply leaves the pod selector valve and flows to the BOP control pod
located subsea. This line is a 1” hydraulic hose located in the hose bundles. The main
hydraulic supply line enters the pod through the large connection in the center if the
kidney plate. The flow then continues to the two subsea regulators.

Regulated Pilot Fluid Circuit

Pressure is supplied from the accumulator through a 1” check valve to the manifold
pressure regulator and the annular pressure regulator. These two regulators in the
hydraulic control manifold apply pilot pressure through the pilot lines to the subsea
manifold and annular respectively. Regulator pilot pressure is also fed to gauges and
pressure transducers. The subsea regulators supply output pressure at a 1 to 1 ratio
to the applied pilot pressure. A 1500 psi pilot pressure produces 1500 psi output
pressure from the subsea regulators for the BOP’s.
The output of the manifold subsea regulator goes to all ram preventers, valves, and
connector functions while the output of the annular regulator supplies power only to
the annular preventers. A pilot line leaves each of the subsea regulators and returns
back to the surface through the hose bundle. These two lines supply manifold and
annular readback pressures to gauges and pressure transducers located on the
hydraulic control manifold. A shuttle valve is located on the input to each gauge
between readback lines from both the blue and yellow pods (“this pod” and “that
pod”). Only the active pod supplies readback pressure through the shuttle valve to
the gauge and pressure transducer.

Three Position Function

The pilot pressure required to control a function begins at the main
accumulators where 3000 psi hydraulic fluid supplies two five-gallon pilot
pressure accumulator bottles ( with 1500 psi precharge pressure)
through a ½” check valve. The pressure in the pilot accumulators is
monitored by a gauge and pressure transducer. These pilot pressure
accumulators supply pressure to the ¼” manipulator valves on the front
of the hydraulic control manifold. Pilot lines leave the manipulator valve,
connect to pressure switches, then leave the manifold and go to both
pods. Once in the pod, both lines connect to SPM valves. These two
valves supply hydraulic pressure to either open or close the preventer.

Operation of a Three Position Function

When the preventer is operated, pilot pressure leaves the ¼” manipulator valve
through one pilot line and activates the associated pressure switch to turn an
indicator light on the remote panel. The pilot pressure then enters both hose bundles
and continues subsea to the kidney plates. The pilot lines then lead to the proper
SPM valve in the control pod. Pressure forces the SPM valve into the open position.
This allows hydraulic fluid to flow through the open SPM valve and into the preventer.
The opposite line is vented by the manipulator valve to release pressure in that line.
When pilot pressure is released from the opposite SPM valve, it returns to the closed
position by spring action and vents pressure from the BOP.
Note that both pods receive pilot pressure but only one pod will actually be supplying
fluid to operate the preventer. This is the pod which is receiving main hydraulic
supply pressure from the pod selector.
In the center or block position, the manipulator valve vents both pilot lines to the
BOP. This allows both SPM valves to close and vent all control pressure off the
preventer.
Operation of a Two Position Function

A two position function differs from a
three position function due to the
presence of only 1 pilot line. There are
only two positions of open and close
(vent). These functions are used for
such items as failsafe valves which
must be pumped into the open position
or vented to allow them to close under
their own spring power.
Power for the pilot pressures originate
in the pilot accumulator bottles. Only
one pilot line leaves the ¼” manipulator
valve. Leaving the valve the pilot line
leads to a pressure switch and to both
pods by the way of the RBQ’s, hose
bundles and kidney plates. The single
pilot line then leads to the proper SPM
valve in the subsea control pod.

Subsea Accumulators
Subsea mounted accumulators perform three functions:

1. Improve the Response Time
Increasing water depth decreases the speed at which subsea preventers may
be functioned. This is caused by expansion of the fluid in the supply lines and
by pressure losses in the lines.
2. Emergency Use
Floating rigs are generally equipped with acoustic back-up control systems for
operation of stack functions. Stack mounted accumulators should be capable
of closing at least one set of rams, one annular preventer, and release the riser
disconnect, all from the acoustic back-up system.
3. Surge Dampening
Subsea accumulators provide dampening for the power fluid operating the
annular preventers. This facilitates stripping operations. Nominal 10 gal
capacity accumulators are typically used.
Sizing Subsea Accumulators
The precharge pressure of the subsea bottles must be increased to compensate for
the hydrostatic of the fluid in the supply lines. The usable volume from each subsea
bottle will be lower than the equivalent surface bottle. The deeper the water, the
greater will be the reduction in usable volume from the accumulators.
Precharge the subsea bottles to 1000 psi plus the hydrostatic of the control fluid. Also
temperature and gas compressibility must be taken into account.
Precharge psi - 1000 psi + hydrostatic of control line fluid

Operating psi - 1200 psi + hydrostatic of control line fluid
System psi - 3000 psi + hydrostatic of control line fluid
NOTE: You will not get the same useable fluid from a subsea bottle as from as
surface bottle

Gasket
Cameron AX Gasket
Sealing takes place along small bands of contact between the grooves and the OD
of the gasket. The gasket is slightly larger than the grooves so compression as the
flange is made up assists in sealing. External loads are transmitted entirely through
the hub faces and cannot damage the gasket.
Cameron CX Gasket
Sealing takes place along small bands of contact between the grooves and the OD
of the gasket. The gasket is slightly larger than the grooves so compression of
making the flange up aids in effecting seal. The gasket design allows face-to-face
contact between the clamp hubs or flanges. External loads cannot damage the
gasket.
Cameron AX and CX Gasket

Application of the AX and CX Pressure Energized Ring Gaskets
Both gaskets achieve face-to-face contact between hubs with minimal clamping
force. The AX gasket is used at the base of the collet connector since the lower
gasket must be positively retained in the connector when the hubs are
separated. The AX design insures that axial pressure loading on the collet
connector is held to an absolute minimum. The AX is also suitable for side
outlets on the BOP stack.
The CX gasket is suitable for use throughout the BOP and riser systems;
except at the base of the collet connector.

Gasket
ROV Intervention
The Remote Operated Vessel (ROV) is the
arms and eyes below water. It’s purpose is
to perform tasks with cameras and
manipulators in support of the drilling
operation. Critical stack functions are
equipped with a hydraulic over-ride
intervention system operated through stabs
which have fluid supplied from a 5000 psi 6
gpm pump on the ROV.
The subsea BOP should be equipped with
control panels for live intervention with
BOP functions. A “dummy” training panel
should also be installed.
Functions Hot Stabs Should Include: ROV Intervention Panel

• BOP wellhead and LMRP connectors,
primary and secondary unlock.
• Ring gasket release for wellhead and
LMRP connectors.
• Upper and Lower shear rams; closing.
BOP Equipment Testing

Pressure Test Frequency
All BOPs, wellhead components and connections, BOP control systems, choke
manifolds, choke & kill lines, standpipe manifold, safety valves, and inside BOPs
should be pressure tested according to the following frequency and standards:
• Prior to installation if practical (stump tested with water when available).
• After installation of wellhead or BOP assembly and prior to drilling (with
water).
• Prior to drilling out each casing shoe (mud).
• When any component change or any repair is made (mud / water).
• Prior to drilling into a suspected high pressure zone (mud).
• Prior to initial opening of drill stem test tools.
• At least once every two weeks or during the first trip after 14-day interval,
or as specified by applicable regulations, providing the interval between
pressure tests does not exceed 21 days. This (every two weeks) pressure
test does not apply to shear rams.

Gasket
BOP Equipment Testing
• Blind-shear rams should be tested (at a minimum) every other BOP
pressure test. Stump test of blind/shear rams should be valid for no longer
than the first 21 days after installation of the stack on the wellhead.
Variable bore pipe rams should be tested against all size pipe being used
(excluding collars and other BHA members).
BOP tests should be carried out using alternating control stations and pods so that
all stations / pods are be tested. If any control station / pod is not functioning,
further drilling operations should be suspended until the system is operable or
applicable permits have been received.
Function Testing Frequency

For subsea BOPs, all rams, ram locks, annular preventers, failsafe valves,
diverters, and other subsea items, should be function tested according to the
following frequency and standards:
• Prior to running the assembled BOP stack all components should be

functioned with both control pods from the Driller’s remote control, and
hose reel control panels. Operations of an acoustic pod should be confirmed
during stack preparation (if equipped).
• After initial installation of the BOP stack using both control pods from the
Driller’s control panel and from the remote control panel.
• Weekly or during the first trip after the 7-day interval. The weekly function
test may not be required for shear rams.
• Shear rams should be function tested prior to drilling out after each casing
job.

Appendix

Introduction
General Information
Rotary Drilling Well Control

Assessment and Certification Programme
1. The Assessment programme contains three separate components:

1.1 A practical assessment exercise on a well control simulator
1.2 A written test on Well Control Equipment
1.3 A written test on Principles and Procedures of Well Control
2. The Surface BOP Stack and Combined Surface/Subsea BOP Stack Tests are
two separate programmes and may not be mixed. In each programme, there are
separate tests for Drillers and Supervisors. Candidates or their employees
nominate the programme and test level to the Assessment Centre. It is not
possible to sit both programmes and test levels at the the same test session.
3. Candidates are required to bring their passport to the test centre. The Practical
Assessor and Written Test Invigilator will check the passport details against the
candidates personal details on the registration form.
4. The Practical Assessor or Invigilator will give each candidate an IWCF
registration form to complete. Please ensure that your name, date and place of
birth are as stated on your passport.
5. The Training Centre should make a copy of the IWCF Certification Standards
Syllabus available to all candidates. Copies can be downloaded from the website
http://www.iwcf.org
6. Candidates who pass at least one component of the test programme at the first
test session (including Practical Assessment) are allowed two attempts to re-sit
the failed component (s). The re-sits (whether it be one of two components) must
be taken at a maximum of two separate test sessions. Successful re-sits must be
completed within a period not exceeding two calendar months from the initial test
date.
7. Candidates who do not successfully complete the programme in the re-sit period
and wish to take the programme again must re-register as new candidates.

Introduction
Practical Assessment:
8. Prior to the Practical Assessment Exercise, candidates will be briefed on the
purpose of the exercise and their role as either a Driller or Supervisor candidate
(dependent on the level at which they are to be tested).
9. Candidate (s) will be assessed on their demonstrated ability to:
9.1 Set up for drilling
9.2 Recognize a drilling break and positive kick
9.3 Perform the shut-in correctly and within the shortest possible time in
accordance
9.4 Complete a “kill sheet” and kill the well using the designated procedure.
(“Wait & Weight” or “Driller’s Method”).
9.5 Bring the pump up to kill speed maintaining constant bottom hole
pressure.
9.6 Operate the remote choke and make adjustments in accordance with the
time delay to maintain constant bottom hole pressure
10. Candidate (s) will not receive any assistance from the assessor during the test
exercise.
Written Tests:
11. The time allowed for the written test papers in each programme are as follows:
11.1 Driller Level
11.1.1 Surface or Subsea Equipment Test Paper 1 hour
11.1.2 Surface Principles & Procedures Paper 1 ½ hours
11.1.3 Subsea Principles & Procedures Paper 2 hours
11.2 Drilling Supervisor Level
11.2.1 Surface or Subsea Equipment Test Paper 1 hour
11.2.2 Surface or Subsea Principles & Procedures 2 ½ hours
12. Candidates will require a calculator, pen and ruler to complete their written test
papers
13. Candidates will be provided with approved Formula Sheets, Kill Sheets and
working paper by the Invigilator. All working papers and kill sheets must be
handed to the Invigilator on completion of each test paper.
14. Mobile Phones, brief cases, textbooks, calculation tables, and any other materials
that candidates bring with them to the training course must be left outside the test
room during the test.
15. Candidates may only leave the test room during the written tests with the
Invigilator’s permission.

Introduction
Examination Tips:
Please read the following information carefully.

16. Unless otherwise requested each question must only be marked with one answer.
17. If you are asked to select more than one answer, the precise number will be
indicated in the questions, and you must provide the correct number of answers.
There are no part marks for half-completed answers.
18. If a candidate gives ambiguous answers on a test paper, (e.g. marks two answers
when only one answer is requested; or marks one answer when two are
requested); then the candidate will not receive any points for the question.
19. All multiple-choice questions must be answered by placing an “X” in the
appropriate answer box.
20. Other questions may require the calculation of an answer. The marking scheme
provides sufficient margin to allow for correct rounding of the final answer in a
calculation answer.
21. Candidates must answer all calculation questions based on the data given.
Assumptions must not be made about data or events that have not been provided,
and candidates may not change data that they believe is incorrect.
22. Calculations should be rounded in accordance with recognized field practice.
23. To correct an answer that has been already been marked on the paper, draw two
lines through the original answer or box – then enter the new answer or tick the
correct box.
24. Candidates should check their paper carefully when they have completed it – to
ensure that all questions (on both sides of all the pages) have been answered

Introduction
On Completion of the Examination:
25. Candidates must hand their completed test paper to the Invigilator together with
any working papers or kill sheets. If a candidate is found to have removed
examination material, or notes made during the examination from the examination
room their test paper may subsequently be voided by IWCF.
26. The person grading the test papers uses a standard Marking Key. They will mark
the candidates answer (s) in accordance with this key and make no assumptions
about answers given or omitted.
27. A grading sheet is completed for each candidate for the Practical Assessment
Exercise and each of the two written test papers. These grading sheets are
retained by the Accredited Centres for to assist trainers identify Candidate
strengths and weaknesses.
28. Trainers are not allowed to see or review actual written test papers before, during
or after a test session.
29. Candidates are not allowed to review test papers at any time.
Results
30. The Accredited Centre Manager or a designated deputy will issue test results. The
Test Session Invigilator does not give information directly to candidates.
Practical Simulation Assessment Guides

The following tables are to serve as guides as to the requirements of the Test
Simulation. Read through these carefully. You are responsible for performing
the responsibilities listed as per your testing level, either Driller or Supervisor
and Surface BOP or Subsea BOP.
Points are subtracted from your score for requirements not performed as
prescribed. You must make at least 70% on the Practical Simulation Exam.
The practical simulation exercise must be passed prior to taking the written
exams.

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction
Hard Close-In and Hang-Off

With Compensator
• Stop drilling and position tool joints free of ram interference
• Stop drilling fluid pumps
• Close BOP
• Open the choke line on the BOP with the choke valve closed
• Adjust hydraulic annular closing pressure to permit stripping of tool joints
• Position a tool joint above the hang-off rams allowing lower kelly cock above
the rotary table during maximum expected heave and tide
• Close hang-off rams
• Lower the drill string to rest on hang-off rams
• Reduce support pressure on the drill string compensator to support about half
the weight of the drill string
• Record pressures
Soft Close-In and Hang-Off

With Compensator
• Stop drilling fluid pumps
• Open the choke line
• Close the BOP
• Close the choke valve
above rotary during maximum expected heave and tide
• Close hang-off rams
• Lower the drill string to rest on hang-off rams
• Reduce the support pressure on the drill string compensator to support about
half of the drill string weight
• Record pressures

Introduction
Close-In and Hang-Off

Without Compensator
• Stop the drilling fluid pumps
• Carry out a hard or soft shut-in
• Set the slips on the top joint of drill pipe
• Close the lower kelly cock valve
• Break the kelly connection above the lower kelly cock and stand kelly back in
the rathole
• Pick up the assembled space-out joint, safety valve, and circulating head with
the safety valve closed; make-up the space out joint on the closed lower
kelly cock
• Open the lower kelly cock, remove the slips and position a tool joint above the
hang-off rams leaving the safety valve high enough above the rig floor to be
accessible during the maximum expected heave and tide when the selected
tool joint rests on the hang-off rams
• Close the hang-off rams
• Carefully lower the drill string until the tool joint has landed on the closed hang-
off rams; slack off the entire weight of the drill string while holding tension on
the circulating head with the air tugger or other tension device
• Connect the circulating head to the standpipe and open the upper safety valve
• Allow shut-in pressures to stabilize and record pressures

Introduction
Emergency Release
Without Shearing
This procedure is used if time and weather permits
• Displace the dill string with KWM and pump down the back pressure valve to the
receiving sub in the drill string
• Bleed off the drill pipe pressure
• Pick up the weight of the closed drill string from the closed pipe ram supporting
it
• Close the annular and adjust the closing pressure so that tool joints may be
stripped into and out of the annular preventer; open the pipe rams
• Strip enough drill pipe to reach the tool joint that was hung in the ram
• Install the subsea preventer hang-off tool or loosen the tool joint of the landing
joint immediately above the closed annular
• Close the hang-off ram and open the annular
• Lower the drill string, landing the hang-off tool or loosened tool joint on the hang-
off ram
• Release the hang-off tool or back out the loosened tool joint above the hang-off
ram
• Close and, if possible, lock the blind/shear rams above the hang-off tool or
broken out tool joint
• Close the choke lines; close, and if possible, lock the applicable pipe rams
• Pull the remaining drill string and release the marine riser if necessary
With Shearing
This procedure to be used if time is short or weather is rapidly deteriorating
• Displace the drill string with KWM and pump down the back pressure valve to
the receiving sub in the drill string
• Bleed off the drill pipe pressure
• Shear off the drill pipe using the blind/shear rams and leave the shear rams
closed
• Release the marine riser

Introduction
API (Field Units) Rounding Rules
Section 1. Rounding Answers and Range Statements for Calculation Questions

These rules will apply to the rounding of calculated answers, unless otherwise stated in
a specific question. Range statements for calculated answers will be in accordance with
the “Answer Range” shown in Table A below.
Table A – Answer Rounding and Range Statements
Section 2. Filled-in Kill Sheet Exercises – Gauge Problem Actions
Introduction of a minimum pressure differential for incorrect gauge pressure readings.
The casing and/or drill pipe pressure will only be relevant to the action if –
a. The casing and/or drill pipe pressures given in the question are below the
expected pressure, or
b. The casing and/or drill pipe pressures given in the question are 70psi or more
above the expected pressure

Worked Questions and Answers
A Learning Document for prospective Candidates

For the Rotary Drilling Well Control Test Programme
Copyright, IWCF June 2000
Revision No.1, November 2000

Introduction
Candidates sitting the IWCF written test papers for the first time are often rather
anxious about the structure of the test.
They will frequently ask:
• Are there any trick questions?

• How does the IWCF compose questions?
• Is there more than one answer and so on?
It is not easy to give straightforward answers to these questions. It is for this reason
that this publication has been prepared. It aims to assist the candidate by providing a
collection of various questions and fully worked-out answers.
IMPORTANT POINTS
Read questions first, don't rush or skip words. Then read the question once again,
highlighting with a transparent marker (or underline with your pen) important words or
phrases.
If a question has multiple-choice answers you can note your correct answers first (in
the right margin) and then review the remaining answers before you finally make your
selection in the check boxes. Alternatively, you can strike out the incorrect answers
first and then review the remaining answers before you finally make your selection in
the check boxes. Both methods are perfectly valid.
Some questions require more than one answer – the candidate must select the
requested number of answers. If a candidate does not select the requested number
of answers –the answers that have been selected will be ignored and the candidate
will not receive any points for the question .
Check your test paper one final time before handing it to the Invigilator.
The following pages contain some examples with detailed analysis.

Introduction
Example Question 1
It is planned to perform a leak-off test. Which of the following actions have to be

performed before the test is conducted?
(TWO ANSWERS)
A. Circulate the mud to obtain a uniform weight and condition.

B. Drill 3 ft (1 m) out of the casing shoe and test the BOP-stack against
exposed formation and cement.
C. Spot a viscous LCM pill on bottom.
D. Drill 6 - 15 ft (2 - 5 m) of new formation.
E. Run a calliper through casing and open hole.
Comments:
Each set of answers has a few distracters. These might be legitimate answers but in
the wrong context or they might be inappropriate answers altogether.
In this question we find the following important words. A candidate could highlight
these as follows: -
'plan‘ It is planned to perform the test, the test has not yet been
performed.
'actions‘ The first indication that more than one answer is
required.
'before' Once again stressing that these are activities that happen prior
to, not during, the test.
‘two answers’ Below the question and in bold style the number of answers
required is stated.
The above suggestions might seem insignificant, but candidates are literally distracted
by answers and fail to remember the intent of the question. Highlighting critical words
not only improves the focus, it also shortens the time to answer the question.

Introduction
Detailed Analysis:
Answers ‘A’ and ‘D’ are correct. They are key activities preceding all leak-off tests
performed in accordance with good practice.
Answer ‘B’ is incorrect. Drilling a mere 3 ft (1 m) out of the casing shoe is usually
not sufficient to get into new formation. Testing the BOP stack against the exposed
formation is totally out of bounds. Nevertheless, it is important to properly read the
answer before discounting any inappropriate activity.
Answer ‘C’ is incorrect. Spotting a viscous LCM pill might have an operational
purpose, but it is not the standard action to take before a leak-off test. Use the
common sense approach and don't be led by activities, which could be taken, instead
of those which need to be taken.
Answer ‘E’ is incorrect. The volume of drilling fluid is fairly accurately known when
the casing has just been set and cemented. It also does not serve any immediate
purpose for calculating the formation strength following the leak-off test.
Example Question 2
Determine the leak – off pressure from the

test graph shown.
A. 875 psi.
B. 975 psi.
C. 1,050 psi.
D. 1,125 psi.
E. 1,175 psi.
Detailed Analysis:
The correct answer is 875 psi.

Introduction
Detailed Analysis:
The incorrect answers are 975, 1050, 1125, and 1175 psi. The test should have been
terminated at 975psi, the first visible deviation from the straight line. In some weak
formations a breakdown could result if the test continued beyond this pressure.
The leak-off pressure is here defined as the highest pressure point (875 psi) at which
no leak-off has taken place. The volume of mud pumped from surface (3.5 bbls) has
only compressed the total fluid volume in the hole and expanded the casing in the
process. After another ½ bbl is pumped from surface we have injected a small amount
of fluid into a newly created fracture. It is quite conceivable and probably even likely
that the leak-off starts somewhere between 875 and 900 psi, but the graph does not
allow us to be more accurate than intervals of ¼ bbl volume being pumped.
Furthermore, no details are given about the leak-off method.
If the graph is difficult to read, ensure you use a ruler and there will be no doubt about
the last pressure point on the straight line.
• What can we do with this leak-off pressure?
• What other information is required to calculate the formation strength?
• Where does MAASP fit in all of this?
The relationship between the leak-off pressure, MAASP and fracture pressure (not
breakdown pressure) relies on the fluid column between surface and casing shoe. The
fluid column needs to be a uniform and accurately measured density.
The true vertical depth of the casing shoe is information we also require. If the overall
fluid density is changed, or if we have two or more different densities between surface
and casing shoe, the pressure at surface will change. This is because the fracture
pressure is - for practical purposes - considered to be an absolute value and will remain
the same as long as we do not initiate a breakdown.
In summary:
• The leak-off pressure is directly related to the fracture pressure with a fluid
column of a known density between surface and true vertical casing shoe
depth.
• The MAASP allows the user to relate to the fracture pressure during a well
control situation, as long as the density of one (or more) fluid columns is
accurately known

Introduction
Example Question 3
Understanding the reasons for performing a leak-off test simplifies the following
question.
The leak-off test results are now recorded.

Which of the following information is essential to calculate the fracture pressure?
(TWO ANSWERS)
A. The capacity of the drill string.

B. The true vertical depth of the casing shoe.
C. The presence of a float sub in the drill string.
D. The pore pressure of the formation being tested.
E. The mud density.
Comments:
The candidate can highlight the following words: -
'results.....recorded‘ The information related to leak-off pressure.
'essential‘ It is the essential information that is required, not any other.
'fracture pressure‘ This is what we are after....!

Introduction
Detailed Analysis:
(MW X TV Depth of Shoe X .052) + LOP
Answers (B) and (E) are correct. Without this information no accurate calculation(s)
can be made. You could scribble the following formula on a piece of paper, or next to
the question itself, to jog your memory.
Pfrac = (MW x TVDepthcsg.shoe) + LOP
Note that the abbreviations (Pfrac, MW, TVDepthcsg.shoe, LOP) are not universal and
could be quite different in your company or area!
Answer (A) is incorrect. The capacities or volumes of hole, casing and drill string have
no impact on the hydrostatic head calculation.
Answer (C) is incorrect. It is a distracter in relation to the leak-off test activity. A float
sub in the drill string might have an influence on the value of the leak-off pressure, if
the test was performed through the drill string instead of the annulus. However, the
validity of the leak-off test result is not part of the question.
We want to calculate the fracture pressure from the information we already have.
Note that this (somewhat disputable) distracter has been chosen to illustrate the
importance to carefully read the question!
Answer (D) is incorrect. The pore pressure value has no direct relationship with the
fracture pressure value. We do not need this information to calculate the fracture
pressure.

Introduction
Example Question 4
By now you have probably come to terms with some aspects of the IWCF testing
methodology. The following three questions have fully worked answers.
Which of the following are relevant considerations when selecting a slow circulation
rate during a well kill using a surface BOP system?
(THREE ANSWERS)
A. Choke control management.

B. Annular friction losses.
C. Vacuum degasser handling capacity.
D. Pressure rating of the Ram Preventer.
E. Removal of gas influx in horizontal holes.

Introduction
Detailed Analysis:
Answers (a), (b) and (e) are correct.

• A reduced or slow circulation rate will simplify choke control management.
Pressure fluctuations at the choke will be slower because any decompression
of mud and influx will take place at a slower rate. If choke control cannot be
managed at any given rate, a further reduction will be beneficial, provided the
circulation pressure is adjusted accordingly.
• Annular friction losses will always be affected by the circulation rate, the
amount is dependent on many factors, such as annular capacity and mud
rheology.
• In horizontal holes it might be more difficult to remove gas trapped in washouts
when circulation rate is vastly reduced. If circulation rates higher than normal
cannot be applied, circulation time might be substantially longer than is
commonly experienced in deviated or vertical holes.
Answer (c) is incorrect. The vacuum degasser has no impact on the selection of the
reduced circulation rate pressure during the well kill.
Answer (d) is incorrect.

• The well pressure below the Ram Preventer is the same as that of the casing or
choke pressure. Any decrease or increase in slow circulation rate while
maintaining bottom hole pressure will have an impact on the choke pressure.
• However this choke pressure will always be lower than the shut in casing or
well pressure below the Ram Preventer, because with no pump running, no
annular friction loss has to be taken into account (static casing pressure =
dynamic choke pressure plus dynamic friction loss when bottom hole pressure
is kept constant).
When in doubt, sketch a diagram with typical data.

Introduction
Example Question 5
While running in the hole it is observed that the trip tank level is significantly higher
than pre-calculated values. There is a float valve in the drill string.What action should
the Driller take?
A. Flowcheck. If no flow, pump out of hole and check for plugged nozzles.
B. Flowcheck. If no flow, close the well in and spot LCM around the bit to
cure seepage losses.
C. Continue running in the hole. It is impossible to swab the well while
running in. Ignore trip tank levels.
D. Shut the well in and reverse circulate to clean the hole.
E. Flowcheck. If no flow, continue running in the hole or consider stripping to
bottom.

Introduction
Detailed Analysis:
Note the words significantly higher and float valve in the question.
Answer (E) is the only correct answer.

• Whatever procedure you would like to follow, utmost caution needs to be
exercised. The string will need to go back to the bottom before circulation can
commence, preferably under controlled conditions (consider closing the BOPs
and diverting returns through the choke while continually monitoring pit levels).
• If the trip tank level increase is genuine, it is probably caused by a swabbed influx
during the trip out of the hole. This influx is migrating and expanding in volume.
Answer (A) is incorrect.

• It is unlikely that any of the nozzles are plugged as we have a float in the string.
• Furthermore, we should not pull out of the hole before investigating the trip tank
volume discrepancy.
• Pulling out of the hole will always place you in a disadvantageous situation when
an (possible) influx migrates and expands even further up the hole.
Answer (B) is incorrect.

• A significant increase in trip tank level is unlikely to be caused by losses.
• Spotting LCM at random depth would not be a solution in all situations.
Answer (C) is incorrect.

• The statement (it is impossible to swab the well in whilst running in) is probably
correct in most common well situations, but the proposed action (continue
running in the hole - ignore trip tank levels) is wrong practice.
Answer (D) is incorrect.

• It is assumed there is an influx in the well located above the bit.
• The Driller’s Method would be the first choice kill method.
• Reverse circulation is not possible as there is a float in the string.
• If it had been possible to reverse circulate it would have created higher annular
pressures leading to induced losses.

Introduction
Example Question 6
The figure to the right illustrates a BOP-

stack and wellhead.
Indicate if the following activity can take

place safely.
With the well shut in under pressure on 5

inch drill pipe, is it possible to repair a
leaking flange on the drilling spool?
A. Yes.
B. No.
The correct answer is B. (No).

• If the well is shut in under pressure, it
has been closed using either the
Annular Preventer or the ‘5-inch’ Ram
Type Preventer.
• Because the lower pipe ram is fitted
with 3-1/2 inch pipe rams instead of 5
inch pipe or variable bore rams the well
cannot be secured below the drilling
spool. Therefore, any attempt to repair
the drilling spool would expose it to well
pressure.
With this sort of questions it is important not to be led by situations you might have
experienced at the well site. The illustration has been chosen to portray a situation,
which allows only one answer to the question. Use your pen to mark the drawing
when in doubt and/or to assist you with getting the correct answer.
Incorrect answers usually stem from hasty decision making or oversight. Be aware.

Appendix
Section 2:
API Information
Accumulator Guide

Appendix: API Publication (RP-53) Briefs
Surface BOP Stacks
12.3.1 Accumulator Volume Capacity

Useable Fluid Volume = hydraulic fluid recovered between System pressure
and (200 + pre-charge) pressure.
Minimum calculated operating pressure = well pressure divided by closing
ratio
Component minimum operating pressure = as recommended by
manufacturer
12.3.2 Accumulator Bottles: CLOSE one annular, CLOSE all rams, OPEN one
HCR valve against 0 psi well pressure; the remaining pressure should be
200 psi above pre-charge
12.3.3 Maximum Closing Times
Rams 30 seconds
Annular less than 18 ¾” 30 seconds
Annular 18 ¾” and larger 45 seconds
Choke and kill line valves (HCR) should not exceed the minimum observed
Ram close response time
12.3.5 Minimum Pre-charge Pressure

System Pressure Pre-charge Pressure
3000 psi 1000 psi
5000 psi 1500 psi
Pre-charge should be checked at the start of drilling to within 100 psi
12.3.6 Pressure gauge for measuring pre-charge should be calibrated to within 1%

of full scale every three years

Surface BOP Stacks
12.4.1 Pump Systems should close one annular on minimum sized drill pipe in use
and open one HCR on the choke line
Pumps must provide operating pressure recommended by annular BOP
manufacturer to seal the annulus in two (2) minutes or less
12.4.2 Air pumps should be able to charge the system to system working pressure
with 75 psi of air supply
volume
Subsea BOP Stacks
volume
13.1 General: Eight elements of the BOP Control System

1. Storage (reservoir)
2. Pumping system for pressurizing control fluid
3. Accumulator bottles (both surface and subsea)
4. Hydraulic control manifold
5. Remote panel
6. Hydraulic fluid
7. Umbilical control hose bundles and reels
8. Control pods on the BOP

Surface BOP Stacks
13.3.2 Accumulator Useable Fluid Accumulator should supply useable fluid to

CLOSE and OPEN one annular and all rams against 0 psi well pressure with
200 psi above pre-charge remaining on the bottles
13.3.3 Subsea accumulator bottle capacity calculations should be compensated
by:
.445 psi/ft X sea depth (sea water hydrostatic pressure) this is to be added
to accumulator bottle pre-charge pressure
13.3.4 Subsea accumulators shall have isolation and dumping capability
13.3.5 Accumulator response time:
Rams 45 seconds
Annulars 60 seconds
HCR valves should close less than or equal to ram response time
LMRP unlatch less than or equal to 45 seconds
13.4.1 Pump systems (minimum of two pumps) should charge system from
minimum calculated operating pressure to system maximum in 15 minutes
13.4.6 Separate accumulators for pilot control system may have a separate pump
or by check valve from the main accumulator system. Provisions should be
made to supply hydraulic fluid to pilot accumulators from the main system if
the pilot pump fails.
13.6.3 Main hydraulic supply through 1 inch nominal supply hose in bundle. An
alternative is rigid pipe on the riser.
API RP 16-E
Illumination of green lights should indicate that the function is in the normal drilling
position. The red light should indicate that the function is in abnormal drilling position.





Appendix
Section 3:
Formulas

Formula Sheet – Equation – Field Units

Formula Sheet – Equation – Field Units

Appendix
Section 4: Surface BOP
Equipment & Controls
Study Guide

Appendix: Surface BOP Equipment
Operations Features
1. With drill pipe in hole, the upper blind rams may be changed to pipe rams. The drill
pipe then can be reciprocated through the upper rams, keeping the lower pipe rams
in reserve.
2. With two pipe rams and some drill pipe in the hole, the drill pipe can be stripped in
hole.
3. With pipe in hole, the lower pipe rams can be closed to repair the drilling spool
flowlines, upper rams, annular, etc.
4. When the blind rams are closed, it permits the use of the choke line and choke.
5. There would be no control should a leak occur around the drilling spool with the
blind rams closed and no pipe in hole.
6. This stack arrangement is generally the accepted hook-up for a two ram type
preventer.
7. If a leak develops above the rotary, the drill pipe can be suspended in the lower
rams, and by closing the blind rams, the well can be controlled.
BOP Stack Arrangement

Operations Features
1. With drill pipe in hole, the upper blind rams may be changed to pipe rams. The drill
pipe then can be reciprocated through the upper rams, keeping the lower pipe rams
in reserve
2. When the blind rams are closed, it permits the use of the choke line and chokes.
3. With either of the rams closed, it permits the use of the choke line and choke.
4. By use of double type preventers, a low substructure height may be used. The
outlets on this type of preventer can be used in lieu of the drilling spool.
5. When the pipe rams are closed on drill pipe, the flowline is available for use.
6. Should a leak develop around the drilling spool, there will be no control for repair.
7. This arrangement exposes more flanges to well pressure. Flanges are considered
a weak point in any hook-up

Operations Features
1. The hole can be closed off when changing rams.

2. If a serious leak should develop, the drill pipe can be dropped and the well closed in
with blind rams as a last resort.
3. There are a minimum number of flanges exposed below the master (blind rams)
valve.
4. When drill pipe is in the hole, the pipe rams can be closed permitting the use of the
flowline and chokes.
5. When the master (blind rams) valve is closed, all the connections above can be
stripped off or repaired.

Operations Features
1. This stack arrangement is generally the accepted hook-up for three ram preventers.
2. When the blind rams are closed, the hole can be closed to permit changing the
upper pipe rams.
3. Most kicks occur with some pipe in the hole. The lower pipe rams can be closed to
repair the upper preventers, drilling spool, and flowlines.
4. With the drill pipe in the hole, the blind rams can be changed to pipe rams, the drill
pipe can then be stripped into the hole using the two top pipe rams, keeping the
lower pipe rams in reserve.
5. There would be no control should a leak occur around the drill spool and lower pipe
rams with the blind rams closed.

Operations Features
1. The hole can be closed off when changing pipe rams.

2. There are a minimum number of flanges exposed below the blind rams.
3. When the blind rams are closed, all of the preventers and connections can be
removed or repaired.
4. If a serious leak should develop, the drill pipe can be dropped and the well closed in
as a last resort.
5. The flowline and choke can only be used when the upper pipe rams are closed.
6. The lower rams cannot be changed to pipe rams when stripping.
7. This arrangement might be preferred for a workover operation.

Operations Features
1. With drill pipe in the hole, the blind rams can be changed to pipe rams. This will
allow the drill pipe to be stripped into the hole while maintaining the lower pipe rams
as a reserve.
2. With drill pipe in the hole and the top pipe rams closed, the flowline and chokes can
be used.
3. With the blind rams closed, the annular preventer, top pipe rams, drill spool, flowline
and choke can be replaced or repaired.
4. With drill pipe in the hole, and the bottom pipe rams closed, all the preventers above
the bottom pipe rams can be repaired.
5. There would be no control should a leak occur around the casing head or bottom
pipe rams with blinds closed.
6. With the blind rams closed, the flowline and choke cannot be used.


Appendix
Section 5: Surface BOP
Equipment & Controls
Study Guide

Ram Preventers
A conventional BOP stack consists of two sections – the lower one which consists of ram
preventers and one annular preventer, and the upper part which usually contains a
hydraulic connector (to connect it to the lower part), an annular preventer, the control
system pods and a ball or flex joint to the top of which the riser is connected. The upper
part is referred to as the lower marine riser package, the term stack being applied to the
lower part. If it ever needs to be repaired during the course of the well, the package can be
retrieved with the riser leaving the stack in position on the wellhead.
Besides being able to seal off the annulus around drill pipe, the pipe rams can also support
the weight of the drill string if it needs to be hung-off on them. The maximum hang-off
capacity is in the region of 600,000 lbs depending on the ram and pipe size. To hang-off
the string securely, the rams must be able to be locked in the closed position with no risk of
accidental opening.
Cameron Type U preventers use a wedge-lock device to achieve this. It consists of a
tapered wedge, hydraulically operated, which moves behind the tail rod of the ram
operating piston when the ram is in the closed position. Since it can only move when the
ram lock pressure is applied and the ram is fully closed, all the ram lock cylinders on the
stack can be connected to just two common control lines – lock and unlock. Ram lock
pressure balance system is fitted to each ram lock cylinder to eliminate the possibility of
sea water hydrostatic pressure opening the wedge lock in case closing pressure is lost.
On Shaffer type LWS or SL rams, the locking device is actuated automatically whenever
the ram is closed. Called the Poslock, this system uses segments that move out radically
from the ram piston and lock into a groove in the circumference of the operating cylinder
whenever the ram is closed.
Whenever hydraulic closing pressure is applied, the complete piston assembly moves
inward and pushes the ram towards the wellbore. With the rams closed, the closing
pressure then forces a locking piston inside the main piston to move further inwards and
forces out the segments. A spring holds the locking piston in this position so that the
segments are kept locked in the groove even if closing pressure is lost.
When opening pressure is applied, the locking cone is forced outward. This allows the
locking segments to retract back into the main piston which is then free to move outward
and open the ram.
In order to provide more flexibility and perhaps avoid having to pull the stack to change
pipe rams when drilling is to continue with 3 ½” pipe rams, variable bore pipe rams can be
used. These can close on any pipe diameter 3 ½” and 7 5/8” or 2 7/8” and 5” in a Cameron
18 ¾” , 10M ram. They are capable of also being used for hang-off purposes though the
weight they are capable of supporting depends on the size of pipe they are closed around.
Shaffer “Multi Ram” assemblies for their SL BOP’s can close on any pipe diameter
between 3 ½” and 5”.
All subsea stacks contain blind/shear rams. These are designed to cut through pipe and
then seal on the wellbore completely. They are nearly always placed in the upper ram
cavity of the stack and should have a kill line outlet immediately underneath in case a well
has to be circulated.

Subsea Annular Preventers
When operating any annular preventer subsea, the hydraulic pressure of the drilling
fluid in the marine riser exerts an opening force on the blowout preventer. Therefore,
the required closing pressure is equal to surface closing pressure plus a compensating
ΔP to account for the opening force exerted by the column of drilling fluid. The Hydril
GL Annular is designed specifically for subsea operations.
The GL preventer secondary chamber should be hooked up using one of the three
techniques to realize the full benefits of the GL design. The opening and closing
chamber areas are equal and therefore the hydrostatic pressure of the control fluid
columns have no effect. Two of the hook-up techniques require adjustment of the
closing pressure by adding ΔP to compensate for the drilling fluid column hydrostatic
pressure in the marine riser (a function of water depth and mud weight).
A counter balance hook-up technique automatically compensates for the effect of
subsea operations. The area of the secondary chamber is equal to the area acted on
by the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling fluid in the riser. Thus, when the secondary
chamber is connected to the marine riser the opening force exerted by the drilling fluid
is automatically counter balanced.
Accumulators
Accumulators are used to store hydraulic fluid under pressure. As much accumulator
volume as possible is located on a subsea stack in order to reduce operating time and
also to enable them to act as surge chambers for annular preventers. Note that the
accumulator size factor will be different when the accumulator is placed on the stack
as the following example illustrates.
To determine the total volume of hydraulic fluid that must be stored in the accumulator
(both surface and subsea) a common criteria is that there should be sufficient fluid to
close-open-close all BOP’s with a 25% safety factor. A stack consisting of:
4 Cameron 18 ¾”, 10000 psi type U rams
2 Shaffer 18 ¾” 5000 psi annulars
The fluid requirements would be:
BOP CLOSE OPEN CLOSE TOTAL
Ram 24.9 23 24.9 72.8
Annular 48.1 37.6 48.1 133.8
4 X 72.8 = 291.2
2 X 133.8 = 267.6
Total = 555.8 X 1.25 = 698.5 = 700 gallons

If the stack is to be located at a depth of 1500 feet the pressure would be:
1500 Feet  .445 psi / ft  668 psi
Therefore the full charge pressure (P 1) is the sum of:
3000 psi  668 psi  15 psi  3683 psi (15 psi atmospheric pressure)
P2 would be 1883 psi 1200 psi  668 psi  15 psi  1883 psi
P3 would be 1690 psi 1000 psi  668 psi  15 psi  1683 psi
If it is decided that there should be 100 gallons of useable fluid in the subsea
accumulator, then the volume needed is:
100 gal
 228.92  229 gallons
  1683 psi   1683 psi  
  
  1883 psi   3683 psi  
   
The remaining hydraulic fluid will be stored on the surface, the accumulator volume
begin given by:
600 gal
Vol Surface   1200 gallons
  1015 psi   1015 psi 
   
  1215 psi   3015 
   psi 
For this application, therefore, a total accumulator volume of 1430 gallons will be
required. Note that the control fluid pumps should be sized to pump 700 gallons to re -
pressurize the accumulator from 1200 psi to 3000 psi in 15 minutes or less.

Fail Safe Valves
For subsea applications these valves are usually placed in pairs on the choke and kill
lines. They are opened hydraulically from the surface (.6 gallons of fluid is typically
required) but once the opening pressure is released an internal spring closes the
valve.
In deep water operations, there would be a tendency for the hydrostatic head of the
fluid in the operating line to cause the valve to open by itself. Some designs therefore
have a system that transmits seawater hydrostatic to an oil chamber on the spring
side of the piston to compensate for this effect. Other designs have pressure-assisting
closing lines.
Due to space limitations, the first valve out from the stack is usually a 90° type with a
target to avoid fluid or sand cutting. The outer valve is straight through and must be bi -
directional – able to hold pressure from top and below so the choke and kill lines can
be tested. Liquid lock between the two valves in each line is eliminated by porting the
fluid, exhausted from the pressure chamber when opening the valve, away from the
neighboring valve. Line pressure acting against the lower end of the balancing stem
assists in closing the valve.
BOP Control Systems

The simplest form of BOP control is to assign a hydraulic line directly to each function.
This presents no major problems on land rigs where the large number of control lines
can be easily handled and the distances the control fluid has to travel is minimal. For
subsea stacks, this direct control system is impractical. Too many individual lines
would be needed and the pressure drop inside the lines would be too great for the
reaction times to be acceptable.
For these reasons, other systems have been developed on the idea of using one
hydraulic line through which power fluid is sent to the stack, and for pilot valves
located on the stack to direct it to various functions on command from the surface.
These commands can easily be transmitted to the pilot valves either hydraulically,
electrically, or acoustically. The hydraulic system is the most common.

Hydraulic Control System
A master hydraulic power unit supplies fluid to both pilot and hydraulic lines via accumulator
bottles. The stack can be controlled from this unit or from a remote control panel on the rig
floor or an electric mini-panel from just about any other location on the rig – rig offices etc.
Pilot and operating fluid is sent to the stack via one of two hose bundles which terminates in a
pod (yellow or blue pod) mounted on the lower marine riser package. The pods are identical,
one providing complete back-up for the other, either one being selected from the control
panels. A typical hose bundle is made up of a 1” supply hose for power fluid and up to 64
3/16” hoses for pilot fluid. Inside each pod the pilot lines terminate at pilot valves, each of
which is connected to the common power fluid supply. When a particular stack function is
selected, pilot fluid pressure is directed down a pilot line to the corresponding pilot valve in
both pods. Both valves then open allowing operating fluid to pass through it then via a shuttle
valve to the operating cylinder. The shuttle valves, which are mounted on the stack, allow the
fluid to flow to the operating cylinder from the one selected pod only.
The operating fluid is stored in the accumulator bottles at 3000 psi. This pressure is too high
for normal operation of annulars or rams and so control pods contain regulators in order that
closing pressures can be controlled as required – usually 1500 psi, though more if the
situation demands. The subsea regulator is controlled from the surface via a pilot line and
another line is used to return to a panel gauge the “readback” operating pressure downstream
of the regulator.
Each control pod is mounted on a receptacle on the lower riser package and can be retrieved
independently if repairs are necessary. While the stack is being run, the hose bundle is fed
out from a power driven reel which is equipped with a manifold so that control of 5 or 6 stack
functions can still be maintained. Once the stack has been landed and a sufficient hose run
out then a special junction box on the reel enables a quick connection to be made between
the pod and the hydraulic unit.
Some of the hydraulic power fluid is stored in accumulator bottles located on the stack in
order to reduce closure times and also to provide a surge chamber effect for the annular
preventers. All of the fluid on the low pressure side of a function is eventually vented to the
sea via the pilot valves. This requires the use of environmentally-friendly operating fluid that is
compatible with anti-freeze additives when needed. Large volumes of fluid are prepared and
stored near the hydraulic unit and are transferred automatically to the accumulator by
electrically driven triplex pumps when the accumulator pressure falls below a pre-set level.
The pilot fluid circuit is a closed circuit.
A turbine flow meter on the hydraulic unit measures the volume of hydraulic fluid used every
time a function is operated, This can indicate whether or not a ram is closing all the way, for
example, or if there is a leak somewhere in the system.
Apart from the obvious CLOSE and OPEN positions, it is also possible to place a function in
the BLOCK position. In this position, the lines carrying pilot fluid have a vented spring action in
the pilot valves which shuts off the power fluid supply and vents both sides of the operating
piston.

Electro – hydraulic Control Systems
The object of the BOP control system is to move sufficient power fluid, at the required
pressure, to the operating cylinder in minimum time. For very long lengths of hose
bundles (over 2000 feet) friction losses inside the small pilot lines result in
unacceptable closure times. If the diameter of these lines was increased, the hose
bundles would be too bulky to handle so an alternative to purely hydraulic control
systems is needed for deep water operations.
This is found in electro-hydraulic system in which 3/16” hydraulic pilot lines are
replaced by electrical lines which operate solenoid valves in the control pods. High
pressure is taken from the main power line in the pod under control of the solenoid
valve and is used as pilot pressure to open the pilot valve and thus allow regulated
power fluid through to the operating cylinder.
A further refinement to this system replaces all separate electrical lines in the hose
bundle with just two, down which coded multiplexed signals are transmitted. A
multiplex package in the control pod decodes these signals and activates the
corresponding solenoid valve.
Acoustic Control System
Although in both the control systems described redundancy is assured through the
use of two identical pods, a further independent system is sometimes desired for
complete back-up. To suit this requirement, acoustic control systems have been
designed which can operate certain vital stack functions even if the rig is forced off
location and is not physically attached to the wellhead.
Basically this system uses a portable battery powered surface control unit connected
to either a hull mounted or portable acoustic transducer to transmit an acoustic signal
to a receiver on the stack. The receiver and battery powered subsea control unit
respond to the signal and transmit a reply back to the surface. A subsea valve
package on the stack interfaces the acoustic signal and primary hydraulic systems via
shuttle valves. It contains solenoid valves powered by the subsea battery pack
(rechargeable only on the surface) and pilot valves.
Pilot fluid comes from a separate pilot fluid accumulator and power fluid is stored in a
separate bank of stack mounted accumulator bottles. These store fluid at 3000 psi
and can be recharged via the primary control system. The valve package contains no
subsea regulator hence the 3000 psi is applied directly to the operating piston. If
necessary, the accumulators can be dumped under control of the primary system.
A secure coded signaling system and nose rejection circuit eliminate the possibility of
a function being accidentally executed. To improve signal reception on the stack, two
subsea transducers are mounted on long horizontal arms which swing down
automatically on opposite sides of the stack when it is lowered.
Manufacturers claim the transmission range for such a system to be up to one mile.

Diverters
If shallow gas is encountered while drilling an offshore well, it is vital that the well is
not shut-in. Instead the well should be allowed to flow the produced gas being vented
downwind of the rig. To do this, a diverter system is used.
For offshore use, the overboard lines of the diverter systems are usually 12 inches or
more in diameter in order to minimize the back pressure on the formation during high
flow rates which are usually a feature of shallow blowouts. The control system to
activate the diverter system closes the bag and opens the diverter lines
simultaneously.
Another feature of a shallow gas blowout is that large amounts of sand and stone can
be produced. In this event, sea water should be pumped down the drill string at
maximum rates to reduce the risk of sparks igniting the gas. Ideally the overboard
lines would contain no elbows or sharp radius bends.

Storm Valve
In the event that the string has to be hung off

while waiting on weather or pulling the BOP
stack for repair, the well can be secured by
using a storm valve. The valve is run above a
retrievable packer and serves both as a means
of sealing off the drill pipe and as a means of
releasing the running string.
It is a sleeve type valve operated by left hand

rotation. As the upper mandrel is backed out of
the upper body, it pulls up and closes the valve
sleeve. Continued rotation then releases the
upper mandrel which is retrieved with the
running string.
To recover the string, the mandrel is carefully
stabbed into the upper body and turned to the
right. This will move the valve sleeve down and
allow a check to be made for any pressure build
up which may have occurred.
The course threads should always be checked

after using the valve since they can be easily
damaged if the mandrel is run into the upper
body before being made up. The retrieving
string should be well centralized to minimize this
problem. Another difficulty often encountered
when retrieving the valve is that solids can drop
out of the mud and settle inside the upper body,
in which case they have to be carefully washed
out.
Some models of storm valves have an
expendable plug on bottom held in place by
shear pins. If wireline operations are necessary
after the valve has been re-opened, then
dropping a sinker bar will knock out the plug to
provide an unrestricted opening through the
valve. Alternatively, the plug can be pumped out
with the valve in the closed position.


Cameron Fail Safe Valve




Hydraulic System Flow – Main Hydraulic Supply
Hydraulic fluid, made up by automatically mixing potable water and K-50 or K-90
concentrate, is stored in a reservoir. It is picked up by electric pumps and/or air
pumps and flows through to 40 micron filters in parallel. The fluid then enters a
bank of accumulators where it is stored at a maximum of 3000 psi. (1000 psi
precharge pressure in accumulators). The hydraulic fluid also continues through a
flow meter (FM). An accumulator pressure gauge is located on the front of the
hydraulic manifold and a pressure transducer (PT) transmits pressure readings to
the remote panels. A low accumulator alarm switch closes whenever the
accumulator pressure falls below 1500 psi. The main line of hydraulic fluid flows
through a 1” check valve on its way to a 1” manipulator type valve which selects the
pod which is to receive the main hydraulic supply (MHS). The pod which receives
the main hydraulic supply is called the active pod. The pod selector valve is on the
front of the accumulator unit and operates either manually or remotely from a
remote panel. When the main hydraulic supply flows from the valve to either of the
pods, the pressure activates one of the pressure switches in the output lines and
operates the appropriate pod indicator light on the remote panel. This gives remote
indication of the active pod.
Main hydraulic supply leaves the pod selector valve and flows to the BOP control
pod located subsea. This line is a 1” hydraulic hose located in the hose bundles.
The main hydraulic supply line enters the pod through the large connection in the
center if the kidney plate. The flow then continues to the two subsea regulators.



Regulator Pilot Circuits
We now need pilot lines to control these two subsea regulators. Pressure is supplied from
the accumulator through a 1” check valve to the manifold pressure regulator and the
annular pressure regulator. These two regulators in the hydraulic control manifold apply
pilot pressure through the pilot lines to the subsea manifold and annular respectively.
Regulator pilot pressure is also fed to gauges and pressure transducers. The subsea
regulators supply output pressure at a 1 to 1 ratio to the applied pilot pressure. A 1500 psi
pilot pressure produces 1500 psi output pressure from the subsea regulators for the BOP’s.
The output of the manifold subsea regulator goes to all ram preventers, valves, and
connector functions while the output of the annular regulator supplies power only to the
annular preventers. A pilot line leaves each of the subsea regulators and return back to the
surface through the hose bundle. These two lines supply manifold and annular readback
pressures to gauges and pressure transducers located on the hydraulic control manifold. A
shuttle valve is located on the input to each gauge between readback lines from both the
blue and yellow pods (“this pod” and “that pod”). Only the active pod supplies readback
pressure through the shuttle valve to the gauge and pressure transducer.
Operation of a Three Position Function
The pilot pressure required to control a function begins at the main accumulators where
3000 psi hydraulic fluid supplies two five-gallon pilot pressure accumulator bottles ( with
1500 psi precharge pressure) through a ½” check valve. The pressure in the pilot
accumulators is monitored by a gauge and pressure transducer. These pilot pressure
accumulators supply pressure to the ¼” manipulator valves on the front of the hydraulic
control manifold. Pilot lines leave the manipulator valve, connect to pressure switches, then
leave the manifold and go to both pods. Once in the pod, both lines connect to SPM valves.
These two valves supply hydraulic pressure to either open or close the preventer.
When the preventer is operated, pilot pressure leaves the ¼” manipulator valve through one
pilot line and activates the associated pressure switch to turn an indicator light on the
remote panel. The pilot pressure then enters both hose bundles and continues subsea to
the kidney plates. The pilot lines then lead to the proper SPM valve in the control pod.
Pressure forces the SPM valve into the open position. This allows hydraulic fluid to flow
through the open SPM valve and into the preventer.
The opposite line is vented by the manipulator valve to release pressure in that line. When
pilot pressure is released from the opposite SPM valve, it returns to the closed position by
spring action and vents pressure from the BOP.
Note that both pods receive pilot pressure but only one pod will actually be supplying fluid
to operate the preventer. This is the pod which is receiving main hydraulic supply pressure
from the pod selector.
In the center or block position, the manipulator valve vents both pilot lines to the BOP. This
allows both SPM valves to close and vent all control pressure off the preventer.


Operations of a Two Position Function
A two position function differs from a three
position function due to the presence of only 1
pilot line. There are only two positions of open
and close (vent). These functions are used for
such items as failsafe valves which must be
pumped into the open position or vented to
allow them to close under their own spring
power.
Power for the pilot pressures originate in the
pilot accumulator bottles. Only one pilot line
leaves the ¼” manipulator valve. Leaving the
valve the pilot line leads to a pressure switch
and to both pods by the way of the RBQ’s,
hose bundles and kidney plates. The single
pilot line then leads to the proper SPM valve
in the subsea control pod.
When it is desired to open a subsea failsafe
valve, it must be pumped into the open
position against a spring force. To initiate this
the ¼” manipulator valve is put into the open
position. This supplies pressure to the
pressure switch in the pilot line which turns
the indicator light on the control panel. The
pilot pressure also enters both pods through
the pilot lines and activates the proper SPM
valve. The SPM valve is forced into the open
position which allows hydraulic pressure to
flow from the subsea manifold, through the
open SPM valve, and into the opening
chamber of the failsafe valve.
When it is desired to close the failsafe valve,
the ¼” manipulator valve is placed in the
center or closed position which vents off the
pilot pressure to the subsea SPM valves and
pressure switch. The pressure switch turns on
the proper indicator light on the remote panel.
With pilot pressure removed from the SPM
valve, it returns by spring force to the closed
position and also vents pressure from the
opening chamber of the subsea failsafe valve.
With no hydraulic pressure to hold it in the
open position, the failsafe valve closes due to
spring force.




Cameron Iron Works Type AX Pressure Energized Ring Gasket
the gasket. The gasket is slightly larger than the grooves so compression as the flange
is made up assists in sealing. External loads are transmitted entirely through the hub
faces and cannot damage the gasket.
Cameron Iron Works CX Pressure Energized Ring Gasket

the gasket. The gasket is slightly larger than the grooves so compression of making
the flange up aids in effecting seal. The gasket design allows face-to-face contact
between the clamp hubs or flanges. External loads cannot damage the gasket.

Application of the AX and CX Pressure Energized Ring Gasket
Both gaskets allow face-to-face contact between hubs to be achieved with
minimal clamping force. The AX gasket is used at the base of the collet
connector since the lower gasket must be positively retained in the connector
when the hubs are separated. The AX design insures that axial pressure loading
on the collet connector is held to an absolute minimum. The AX is also suitable
for side outlets on the BOP stack.
The CX gasket is suitable for use throughout the BOP and riser systems, except
at the base of the collet connector.

Notes

Notes

Notes

Notes

09Jan13© All Rights Reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyrights herein may be reproduced or copied in any
form or by any means--graphic, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or information and
retrieval systems--without the written permission of Intertek Consulting & Training.

IWCF Participant Guide - 09jan13.pdf - Protected

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

IWCF Participant Guide - 09jan13.pdf - Protected

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

International Well

Fundamentals Well Control Equipment

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 1

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 2

Formation Lithology: Downhole Rock Types

Shales, Clays, and

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 3

• The “pore” spaces within the

Permeability is the capacity of a porous

• A permeability of 1 Darcy will allow flow

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 4

• Normal formation pore pressure is equal

• Subnormal formation pore pressure is

• Abnormal pore pressure is defined as a pore pressure greater than normal.

Normal Pore Pressure

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 5

Seal or Caprock (Under Compacted Shale)

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 6

Diapirism (Salt Dome)

Pressure Distribution - Salt Dome

Uplift and Erosion

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 7

Abnormal Pore Pressure Gas Cap

Consider the drawing at

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 8

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 9

Hydrostatic Pressure & Pressure Gradient

What is the hydrostatic pressure at the casing

What is the bottom-hole hydrostatic pressure?

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 10

Functions of Drilling Fluids

Types of Drilling Fluids

Water Based Fluids

• Fresh water based

• Salt water based

Oil Based Fluids

• Refined diesel oils

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 11

Properties of Drilling Fluids

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 12

Equivalent Fluid (Mud) Weight

Example: What is the equivalent mud weight of a producing reservoir

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 13

Pshoe – MW x 0.052 x Hmud =

BHP – Hinflux x Ginflux – Hmud x 0.052 x MW =

MW x 0.052 X TVD + SIDPP =

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 14

Pshoe – MW x 0.052 x Hmud =

BHP – Hmud x 0.052 x MW – Hinflux x Ginflux =

MW x 0.052 X TVD + SIDPP =

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 15

Pshoe – MW x 0.052 x Hmud =

BHP – HKillMud x 0.052 x KMW

MW x 0.052 X TVD + SIDPP =

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 16

Circulating Pressure of the Fluid

The factors that effect these

• Dimensions of the system:

These pressure losses occur in the following areas:

Intertek Consulting & Training IWCF Well Control Page 17

ECD- Equivalent Circulating Density

Calculate the ECD for the well info given.

= 12.32 ~ 12.4 ppge