Safest Available Technology to Reduce the Blowout Probability in High-H2S and High-Pressure Drilling and Completions Applications While Using a Surface BOP

Abstract

With the goal to exhibit leadership in industry process safety, North Caspian Operating Company (NCOC), Eni, and Kinetic Pressure Control have collaborated to evaluate the feasibility and potential process safety benefits from use of the Kinetic Blowout Stopper (K-BOS®) technology in High-H2S and high-pressure drilling and completions and intervention applications from artificial islands in Kashagan field. The study focused on efforts to detect any showstoppers for the application of K-BOS, quantify the reduction in the blowout probability due to its application, and summarize the information currently available about the technology. Using the Eni proprietary e-wise™ fault tree analysis approach, a quantitative risk assessment was performed to compare the probability of a blowout in Kashagan field using conventional BOP systems to the probability of a blowout with the K-BOS added to the stack. The study also reviewed OEM provided operating procedures, a risk assessment for running the equipment, as well as a feasibility study regarding any height restrictions in the BOP stack and the position of the K-BOS in the stack. The impact of alternative equipment for risk reduction such as additional redundancy was also assessed. The application of the 13 5/8" 10M K-BOS system during reservoir drilling, completion and intervention operations significantly reduces the probability of a blowout by at least an order of magnitude. For drilling operations in the most challenging Rim portion of the reservoir, the blowout probability decreases by more than 90% and the residual value is below the blowout frequency for Producing Wells. The improved shearing/sealing capacity and reduced closure time provided by the K-BOS enable a reduced likelihood of a blowout and enhance the risk profile for the oil and gas industry.