BOP STACKS

A set of two or more BOPs used to ensure pressure control of a well. A typical stack might consist of
one to six ram-type preventers and, optionally, one or two annular-type preventers. A typical stack
configuration has the ram preventers on the bottom and the annular preventers at the top.

The configuration of the stack preventers is optimized to provide maximum pressure integrity, safety
and flexibility in the event of a well control incident. For example, in a multiple ram configuration,
one set of rams might be fitted to close on 5-in diameter drillpipe, another set configured for 4 1/2-
in drillpipe, a third fitted with blind rams to close on the openhole, and a fourth fitted with a shear
ram that can cut and hang-off the drillpipe as a last resort.

It is common to have an annular preventer or two on the top of the stack since annulars can be
closed over a wide range of tubular sizes and the openhole, but are typically not rated for pressures
as high as ram preventers. The BOP stack also includes various spools, adapters and piping outlets to
permit the circulation of wellbore fluids under pressure in the event of a well control incident.

The Blowout Preventer is comprised of four main components, stacked one upon another. They
are the annular preventer, blind ram, blind shear ram, and the pipe ram. There can be many
different configurations, sizes and pressure ratings, dependent on well design, formation pressures,
and areas of use. The BOP is attached to the steel casing that is cemented around the well bore. The
drill string is suspended through the center of the well bore. This is the rotating pipe to which the
drill bit is attached.

The first BOP component is the pipe ram. During a kick, this ram is activated and creates a seal
between the well bore and the outside of the drill string. The next component is the blind shear ram.
If a kick occurs, it may become necessary to sacrifice the drill string to stop the flow of material
inside of the well bore. The blind shear ram performs this function by cutting, or shearing the drill
string, and sealing the well bore. The blind ram is used to seal the well bore when there is no drill
string in the well. The annular preventer is a device that can seal around any object in the well bore,
or upon itself. It is designed to create a seal, with or without the drill string present.

These multiple components provide redundancy, and are controlled by a device called the
accumulator. This unit can be operated remotely, using a panel located on the rig floor, or by
personnel on the ground, using duplicate controls on the accumulator itself.

The BOP control system, called an accumulator, provides the energy to operate the blowout
preventers.