In what is believed to be an industry first, Furmanite Australia has developed and proven a new process for specialist precision machining into blowout preventer (BOP) valve outlet bores, which allow tools to be inserted to monitor conditions in the well.
The first application saw Furmanite develop a special tool, similar to a blind hole borer, with a cage adapter to attach to the 31/16 inch BOP spool adapter. This enabled drilling into a BOP stack, rated at 10,000 psi (pin outlet), to be achieved with the high degree of accuracy required, to allow locator pins for a tubing hanger orientation pin to be located inside the BOP. Prior to the work commencing, a full scale mock-up in the workshop to prove the concept was undertaken before the equipment was shipped offshore.
“The requirements are extremely onerous and the work has to be absolutely accurate with tight tolerances, so this requires exceptional machining precision; very much a specialist skill,” Furmanite WA sales manager David Arnold explains. “In one case we had to drill and ream holes for a 3.081-3.083 inch diameter over a 25.7 inch long locator pin, to tolerances of 0.002 inches.”
He continues: “Previously maintenance, repairs and refurbishments would have been left as long as safely possible as these services generally require the BOPs to be shipped onshore for the manufacturer’s attention. Now, however, Furmanite’s ability to machine into the BOP valve outlet bores means we can offer a quick, reliable and cost-effective service that will ensure efficient continuation of rig operations.”
The group of equipment called blow-out preventers (BOPs) represents the second line of defence for the workers and the well to prevent a blow-out. BOPs and associated valves are installed on top of the casing head before drilling ahead after rigging up. These high-pressure safety valves and associated equipment are designed to shut off the well hole and prevent the escape of the underground fluids, preventing a blow-out from occurring. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and pressure ratings, and are critically important to safety.
For further press information please contact:
Sarah Manwaring-White, Keep in Touch Ltd,
Tel: +44 (0)1451 844 488
Email: sarah_mw@keepintouch.co.uk
Issued on behalf of Furmanite Australia
www.furmanite.com