Effective decision-making, higher uptime availability, and safer drilling operations

Subsea Blowout Preventers (BOPs) have evolved from simple stacks with limited redundancy to multiple ram configurations with complex redundant capabilities. Increasing the number of redundant capabilities for BOPs reduces the major accident risks. However, increasing the number of components lead inevitably to an increased risk for failures, potentially leading to the need for pulling the BOP stack. It has a significant cost impact due to the delays and increased rig time.

The modified in-depth FMECA is a powerful tool. The focus is on the effect of a failure and the ability of BOPs to keep operating within the defined functional requirements. The methodology includes the following main steps:

1. Identification of detection method of the failure;

2. Troubleshooting methods to pinpoint the failure to the component;

3. Establish contingency plan for critical failures;

4. Operational considerations;

5. Enables a graphical visualization of the BOP’s critical failures, redundancy and bottlenecks by the use of Reliability Block Diagrams and/or Fault Trees;

6. Tool that enables a thorough, instant and transparent risk analysis for decision-making in case of failure of BOP components.

Multiple applications of the modified in-depth FMECA show that it allows the performance of fast and transparent risk assessments with results integrate to other tools. Simplified and accelerated risk assessments empower drilling rig companies with a clear understanding of failures. It allows effective decision-making, higher uptime and safer drilling operations.

ORS provides highly specialized consultancy services and tools for improved safety and operational performance of drilling and well interventions.