BSEE Model Advances Analysis of Offshore BOP Closure
The model evaluates BOPs during extreme pressure and flow conditions
A BSEE funded study represents a step forward in understanding how offshore blowout preventers (BOPs) are likely to function. The model has been validated by the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and was presented at the Ocean Energy Safety Institute’s Public Technology Assessment Program Forum.
“The emergency closure of a wellbore with a BOP is a highly complicated process in which high strength steel pipe must be cut and pinched closed under extreme pressure and flow conditions,” said SwRI’s Steven Green.
According to the report, SwRI is under contract with BSEE to develop a methodology for conducting an analysis of a BOP closure event.
“We have also developed a database tool that, when completed, will hold simulation results and allows BSEE and industry to interactively assess the basic design requirements of a BOP under its expected operating conditions,” Green said.