Investigation Report
Synthetic-Base Mud Release from Subsea Blowout Preventer
09-20-2008 01:00 G21245 WR/678 Pollution
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- Environmental protectionLoss of containmentMechanical failurePressure systems
- Fluid transferPressure testing
- Blowout preventerValve
- Operating and work procedures
- Upstream oil and gas
- Marine watersSubsea
Summary
This investigation examines synthetic-base mud pollution from a subsea blowout preventer following return from Hurricane Ike evacuation. Opening rams without pressure equalisation caused seal failure and washout. Pressure testing and ROV observation revealed the leak; the report describes discharged pollutant volume, seal upgrades and recovery of the stack for repairs.
Classifications: Environmental protection; environmental safety; pollution prevention.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Fluid transfer; fluid loading; fluid offloading.
Classifications: Pressure testing; hydrostatic testing; pneumatic testing.
Classifications: Blowout preventer; BOP; blow-out preventer.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Classifications: Marine waters.
Classifications: Subsea; underwater worksite.