Ops HB 02 Iss02 Rev01 Sbop Sections 1 9

Title:
SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM

FLOATING VESSELS
Revision Status:
Level: L1B
Classification: HANDBOOK
Manual Number: HQS-OPS-HB-02
Issue Number: 02
Revision Number: 01
Revision Date: FEBRUARY 14, 2005
Transocean
NONCONTROLLED
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM SECTION:
TOC
FLOATING VESSELS
HQS-OPS-HB-02 SUBSECTION: N/A
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 ...............................................................................POLICY AND PROCEDURE
SUBSECTION 1 SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM FLOATING

VESSELS POLICY AND PROCEDURE
SECTION 2 ....................... SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND COMPONENT SPECIFICATION
SUBSECTION 1 SURFACE BOP STACK

SUBSECTION 2 CONTROL SYSTEM
SUBSECTION 3 TENSIONING RING
SUBSECTION 4 TELESCOPIC JOINT
SUBSECTION 5 BOP CONNECTOR AND UPPER RISER MANDREL
SUBSECTION 6 STRESS JOINTS
SUBSECTION 7 STRESS JOINT SAVER SUBS
SUBSECTION 8 RISER
SUBSECTION 9 TEST STUMPS
SUBSECTION 10 TESTING AND RUNNING TOOLS
SUBSECTION 11 SEAFLOOR ISOLATION SYSTEM (SIS)
SUBSECTION 12 ACOUSTIC CONTROL SYSTEM
SUBSECTION 13 MUD MAT
SUBSECTION 14 SUBSEA WELLHEAD
SECTION 3………………………………………………….LOCATION AND PROJECT DATA
SUBSECTION 1 WATER DEPTH AND LOCATION

SUBSECTION 2 DRILLING PROGRAM
SUBSECTION 3 FORMATION PRESSURE / MUD WEIGHT
SUBSECTION 4 WELL DEPTH / CASING PROGRAM
SUBSECTION 5 SOIL
SUBSECTION 6 SHALLOW GAS
SUBSECTION 7 BATHYMETRY
SUBSECTION 8 OCEANOGRAPHIC AND METEOROLOGIC
SECTION 4……………………………………………………………………DESIGN PREMISE
SUBSECTION 1 OPERATING CONDITIONS

SUBSECTION 2 RISER SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA
SUBSECTION 3 MOORING SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA
SUBSECTION 4 RISER FATIGUE LIFE
Hardcopies are printed from an electronic system and are not controlled
ISSUE NO: 02 REVISION NO: 00 PAGE OF
REVISION DATE: OCTOBER 1, 2004 1 2
SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM SECTION:
TOC
FLOATING VESSELS
HQS-OPS-HB-02 SUBSECTION: N/A
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 5………………………………………………………………….….RISER ANALYSIS
SUBSECTION 1 SPACE OUT

SUBSECTION 2 DYNAMIC ANALYSIS
SUBSECTION 3 HANG-OFF ANALYSIS – LATERAL AND AXIAL
SECTION 6………………………………………………………...………MOORING ANALYSIS
SUBSECTION 1 INPUT PARAMETERS

SUBSECTION 2 ANALYSIS CASE MATRIX
SUBSECTION 3 ANALYSIS RESULTS
SECTION 7……………………………………………….………………….RISER TENSIONING
SUBSECTION 1 MINIMUM REQUIRED TENSION

SUBSECTION 2 RISER TENSIONING OPTIONS
SUBSECTION 3 PURPOSE-BUILT RISER
SECTION 8……………………………………DRILLING AND OPERATIONAL PRACTICES
SUBSECTION 1 RISER MONITORING

SUBSECTION 2 DRILL STRING ROTATION
SUBSECTION 3 RISER WEAR MONITORING AND MITIGATION
SUBSECTION 4 RISER PRESSURE TESTING
SUBSECTION 5 DRILL STEM TESTING CONSIDERATIONS
SECTION 9………………………………………………………………….WELL COMPLETION
SUBSECTION 1 COMPLETION IN WELL HEAD

SUBSECTION 2 COMPLETION IN TUBING HANGER SPOOL WITH 12 ¼”
SYSTEM BORE
SUBSECTION 3 COMPLETION IN HORIZONTAL TREE WITH 13 5/8”
SYSTEM BORE
SECTION 10……………………………………………….……….DEPLOYMENT SEQUENCE
SECTION 11……………………………………………..PROJECT ASSESSMENT PROCESS
SECTION 12……………………………………….……HAZARD AND OPERABILITY STUDY
SECTION 13…………………………………...…………………EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM FLOATING VESSELS
HQS-OPS-HB-02
OPERATIONS
1 POLICY
Each surface BOP project from a floating vessel must be specifically reviewed
and approved by HQS Operations management in accordance with the
requirements established in the Corporate Surface BOP Operations from a
Floating Vessel Manual.
Reference: Operations Policy and Procedure Manual, HQS-OPS-PP-01, section 3,

Subsection 1.9.
2 PURPOSE
To ensure that Surface BOP projects are:
• Conducted in a safe and efficient manner,

• Conducted in accordance with the Company’s Policies and Procedures, and
• Designed in accordance with applicable codes and recommended practices
as described in HQS-OPS-HB-02 and Company Engineering Document:
Surface BOP Drilling Systems Minimum Design & Analysis Standards
3 SCOPE
This procedure is applicable to all the Company Surface BOP Projects from floating
vessels.
4 PROCEDURE
4.1 APPROVAL PROCESS
The Project Assessment Flowchart Figure 1.1 depicts the steps required to evaluate,
plan and approve a Surface BOP project.
4.1.1 REGION / DISTRICT SUPPORT STAFF
The Region or District sponsoring a Surface BOP project are required to collect and
furnish all relevant location and well data from the Operator.
4.1.2 ENGINEERING SUPPORT TEAM
An Engineering Support Team must be selected on a case-by-case basis, subject to

the scope and extent of work required to conduct the Surface BOP Project.
Generally a Project Manager must be assigned with an appropriate complement of
staff according to the Engineering Disciplines required by the project’s scope.
REVISION DATE: FEBRUARY 14, 2005 1 80
HQS-OPS-HB-02
OPERATIONS
4.1.3 OPERATIONS SUPPORT
The HQS Surface BOP Operations Manager must consolidate all project data and
prepare a Project Specific Proposal for review by the Operations Review Committee.
4.1.4 OPERATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE
The Operations Review Committee comprising:
• VP Operations and Technical Services

• VP Technology and Performance
The operations review committee must assess the proposal, which may be rejected,
approved as presented or approved with amendment.
All new surface BOP Projects require approval from the Operations Review
Committee prior to making a firm commitment to the Operator.
4.1.5 SEA FLOOR ISOLATION UTILIZATION
All Surface BOP proposals and negotiations must clearly indicate that the use of a
sea floor shut-in device provides an important safeguard when conducting Surface
BOP operations.
4.1.6 SEA FLOOR ISOLATION REQUIREMENT EXEMPTION
For surface BOP operations in benign environments, the absence of a sea floor
shut-in device may be permitted subject to management review and approval.
In the event a shut-in device is not utilized, additional precautions must be

implemented to mitigate the risk of riser failure (i.e. adequate riser margin).
4.1.7 EXTRAORDINARY OPERATIONS
Conducting drill stem tests or other extraordinary operations in Surface BOP mode
requires separate management approval documented in accordance with the
Company’s Policies and Procedures.
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OPERATIONS
4.1.8 OPERATORS RESPONSIBILITIES
The Operator must accept full liability for all pollution and property damage
associated with any Surface BOP component or system failure. This provision must
be clearly stipulated within the Contract.
5 RESPONSIBILITY
5.1 OPERATIONS MANAGER (REGION / DISTRICT) (I)
The Region or District sponsoring a Surface BOP project must:
• Issue the appropriate Request for Engineering Assistance (REA), clearly

detailing the required Engineering deliverables in accordance with the
• Collect and furnish all relevant location and well data from the Operator.
• Arrange and conduct with the Operator any required HAZOP relevant to the
project.
• Prepare site specific operating guidelines in accordance with the Company’s
Policies and Procedures.
5.2 ENGINEERING MANAGER (ENGINEERING SUPPORT) (I)
Engineering Support must:
• Process any approved Surface BOP Request for Engineering Assistance in

accordance with the Company’s Policies and Procedures, applicable codes
and recommended practices as described in HQS-OPS-HB-02 and Company
Engineering Document: Surface BOP Drilling Systems Minimum Design &
Analysis Standards.
• If required, assign a dedicated Project Manager and an appropriate
complement of Engineering staff according to the engineering disciplines
required for the project’s scope of work.
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OPERATIONS
5.3 HQS SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS MANAGER (OPERATIONS

SUPPORT) (D)
Operations Support must:
• Ensure that Surface BOP project Analysis and Design is conducted in

accordance with the Company’s Policy and Procedures.
• Facilitate as required the flow of information requests between District /
Region Support, Engineering Support, Operator, and any Third Parties.
• Consolidate all project data and prepare a Project Proposal for review by the
Operations Review Committee.
5.4 OPERATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE (OPERATIONS SUPPORT) (D)
• V.P. - Engineering and Technical Support(D)

• V.P. - Technology and Performance(D)
must:
• Review the Surface BOP Project proposal to ensure compliance with the
• Ensure that the work can be performed in a safe and efficient manner without
importing additional risk to the Company.
• At its discretion approve the Surface BOP Project.
6 DOCUMENTATION
• Surface BOP Operating Manual, HQS-OPS-HB-02

• Engineering and Construction Standard, HQS-OPS-RP-02
HQS-OPS-HB-02
OPERATIONS
Figure 1.1, Project Assessment Flowchart
OPERATOR TRANSOCEAN INDUSTRY RESULTS
Location & Vessel & Equip. Design Criteria

Project Data (1) Data (3) * API RP 16R
* API RP 16Q
* API RP 2RD
* API RP 2A-LRFD
Site &
Well Program Location
Data (2) Analysis (4)
Possible Solutions:
- upgrade vessel?
NO
- alternate vessel?
Project Feasible? - weather window?
(1) Metocean ,
Bathymetry , YES
Operating Parameters
Soil, Riser/Casing Document Operating - mooring plan
Parameters - operating envelope
(2) Max. Mud
- R/T settings
Weight, Max. - stack configuration
W/head Press. Hazard Identification
(3) RAO, BOP, Risk Analysis (QRA)
Hazard & Operability Study Project Terminated
TJ, Mooring & YES
Tensioner Systems
(4) Mooring, Riser, NO NO

Risks Acceptable? Mitigation?
VIV, Fatigue
YES
Document Policies & Procedures Rig & Project Specific

Operating Manuals
Document Rig & Project

VSC & Operations Plans Rig & Project VSCs
& Operational
Plans
Vessel & Equipment
Modifications Submit Documentation for
Approval(s) (Corporate / Regulatory) Return to HazOp
Training YES
YES NO NO
Execute project Approval Received? Modify Approach?
Capture & Document Feedback to Design

Lessons Learned & Evaluation
Continuous Improvement
END & Learning Information
HQS-OPS-HB-02
OPERATIONS
2 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND COMPONENT SPECIFICATIONS
Surface BOP Operation is the practice of utilizing a floating drilling unit, fitted with a BOP
that is suspended above the waterline in the moon pool area. The BOP, usually a surface
type BOP, is connected to a high-pressure riser serving as a conduit to the sea floor. The
recommended practice is to deploy a shut-off and disconnect device at the sea floor.
Transocean has developed such a system, referred to as a SIS (Seafloor Isolation System).
The SIS consists of a single shear ram with an upper & lower hydraulic connector and is
acoustically controlled. The industry has conducted surface BOP operations without a shut-
off and disconnects device, whereby the 13-3/8” casing is deployed in one continuous length
from shoe to surface wellhead.
The Surface BOP concept was initially introduced to drill inexpensive exploration wells in a
benign environment in water depths between 100 and 500 ft. The operation proved
successful and can save several days time compared to conventional subsea operations.
Drilling in the Surface BOP mode also facilitates operations in much deeper water, beyond
the capability of the drilling unit’s self-contained mooring system. The use of a pre-laid
mooring system extends water depth capability and can significantly reduce the time
required to move the drilling unit between locations.
Surface BOP operations are ideally suited to areas where relatively benign environmental
conditions prevail. However, moderate environmental conditions and seasonal operating
windows will also permit its application.
A base case will be referenced throughout this Guideline to facilitate the description of the
Surface BOP arrangement. The reader should bear in mind that in most instances this base
case can be modified to suit a particular program or preference. Where practical, such
alternatives will be noted along with any associated implications or considerations. The
system described herein comprises of a 13-5/8” surface BOP, 13-3/8” casing riser string,
upper & lower stress joint assemblies, 13-5/8” SIS with a single blind/shear ram and upper &
lower hydraulic connectors and an acoustic control system for the SIS. The illustrations on
pages 3, 4 and 5 depict the base case arrangement.
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OPERATIONS
Figure 2.1, Surface BOP Arrangement
BALL
JOINT
DIVERTER
TELESCOPIC
JOINT
ANNULAR
BOP
TENSIONING
RING
SURFACE
BOP
HYDRAULIC
CONNECTOR
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OPERATIONS
Figure 2.2, Riser System
UPPER
RISER
MANDREL
UPPER
STRESS
JOINT
UPPER
SAVER
SUB
13-3/8”
RISER
LOWER
SAVER SUB
LOWER
STRESS JOINT
LOWER RISER
MANDREL
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OPERATIONS
Figure 2.3, Seafloor Architecture
SIS
SUBSEA
MUD WELLHEAD
MUD
MAT
MAT
26” HOUSING
WITH
EXTENSION
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OPERATIONS
2.1 SURFACE BOP STACK
The size, or bore, of the BOP stack is determined by well construction and
completion requirements. For most applications, a 13-5/8” system will suffice. The
smallest size BOP is preferable due to its lower weight and ease of handling.
However, deep formation objectives with multiple casing sizes or large completions
may require the use of a larger BOP and/or riser. In certain applications, the use of
the existing subsea BOP may be utilized as a surface type BOP. The size of the
rig’s moon pool, vessel motions and tensioning capacity must also be considered in
the selection of the BOP.
In benign operating environments, the surface BOP can be enclosed in a frame and
laterally constrained. As vessel motions increase with deteriorating environmental
conditions, the surface BOP is generally suspended from the tensioner lines and
allowed to move laterally, thus reducing the bending loads in the surface equipment.
A system that is not laterally constrained may still incorporate the use of a frame
assembly to act as a bumper to protect choke & kill line outlets and control system
hoses as well as add additional steel to withstand bending and tension loads.
The surface BOP is located at an elevation above the splash zone to minimize
environmental loading. As such, it is prudent to minimize the overall height of the
BOP. The moon pool size must be commensurate with the surface BOP
dimensions, including frame, and the relative predicted vessel motions to avoid or
minimize contact between the BOP or tensioner wires and the hull. The surface
BOP stack is designed to be rig independent and has little if any adverse affect on
the subsea drilling capability of the drilling unit. As such, it can be utilized on other
drilling units without the need to undertake costly rig modifications provided sufficient
tensioning capacity exists. This also facilitates the process of changing between the
conventional subsea mode of operation and the surface BOP configuration.
For the base case, a 13-5/8” BOP stack was utilized, consisting of 3 ram preventers
rated for 10,000 psi working pressure and 1 annular preventer rated for 5,000 psi
working pressure. The middle ram preventer is capable of shearing 5”, 19.5 ppf,
grade S-135 drill pipe. All rams shall be equipped with a hydraulically actuated
mechanical locking device.
A minimum of 2 choke and 1 kill outlets must be provided. Each choke outlet must
be equipped with 2 gate valves with a minimum bore of 3-1/16” and rated for 10,000
psi working pressure. The kill outlet must be equipped with 2 gate valves with a
minimum bore of 2-1/16” and rated for 10,000 psi working pressure. The kill outlet
must also be fitted with a non-return valve, 2-1/16” bore, rated for 10,000 psi working
pressure. All choke and kill outlet valves must be hydraulically operated.
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OPERATIONS
The choke and kill outlet valves will be hard piped to a suitable termination point
within the BOP frame / work platform surrounding the stack. The drilling unit’s
existing flexible choke and kill hoses will be utilized and connected to a gooseneck
at the termination point. All lines shall be rated for 10,000 psi working pressure with
a minimum 3” bore.
2.2 CONTROL SYSTEM
The drilling unit’s existing control system can be adopted for use with the Surface
BOP. This can be accomplished in a number of ways. Generally, the hydraulic
control lines from the BOP stack are assembled at a suitable termination point on
the BOP frame. Jumper hoses are used to connect from this termination to a POD
receptacle mounted on the deck area inside the moon pool. The jumper hose should
be designed to accommodate rig movement from heave, tide, storm surge and
lateral excursion. One of the drilling unit’s existing control PODs is landed inside the
POD receptacle. The BOP functions can then be controlled as if operating in the
conventional subsea mode. Hydraulic fluid from the accumulator may be set-up to
by-pass the POD hosereel if deemed appropriate. Temporary alterations to the
control panel schematics are also required to reflect the arrangement of the surface
BOP hydraulic control lines.
2.3 TENSIONING RING
The tensioning ring is purpose built to suit the number of tensioning lines required.
All connecting points are symmetrically positioned, providing equal distribution of the
load. The base case tensioning ring is designed to fit around the underside of the
annular preventer body and does not incorporate swivel mechanism. The tensioning
ring may also be incorporated into the telescopic joint. In the case of DP operations,
the tensioning arrangement must also allow for heading changes.
In addition, top tensioning may be applied to the BOP stack frame. In this case the
load is not transmitted directly through the BOP. The BOP frame is designed to
withstand the tensioning load as the BOP rests on the frame assembly. Vessel
motions and the effective bending loads on the surface equipment must be analyzed
to ensure suitability of the top tensioning arrangement.
2.4 TELESCOPIC JOINT
The base case telescopic joint has three sections with a maximum stroke of 45 ft
and a collapsed capacity of 100 kips. The overall length of the assembly is
approximately 25.0 ft.
The connections selected for the telescopic joint must consider the drilling unit’s
existing equipment. The top connection must adapt to the existing diverter ball joint
HQS-OPS-HB-02
OPERATIONS
connection. The bottom connection can be a flange to interface directly with the top
of the annular preventer. Alternatively, a mandrel can be flanged to the top of the
annular preventer to facilitate the use of a standard marine riser coupling that can be
assembled much quicker than an API flange.
The design of the telescopic joint must also consider the available height between
the top of the BOP and diverter housing, bearing in mind the elevation of the BOP is
to remain sufficiently high in order to remain out of the splash zone. The telescopic
joint must have sufficient stroke to withstand the maximum vessel excursion in the
event of one mooring line failure in addition to accommodating maximum vessel
heave and tidal changes.
2.5 BOP CONNECTOR & UPPER RISER MANDREL
The base case utilizes a 13-5/8” Vetco H-4 connector (or similar) installed below the
surface BOP to connect to the riser through the upper riser mandrel. The upper riser
mandrel is flanged to the top of the upper stress joint. Refer to the illustration on
page 3. This use of a hydraulic connector provides an efficient means to nipple-up
the surface BOP in the moon pool.
The purpose of the upper riser mandrel is two-fold. Primarily, it serves as the
connection between the surface BOP and the riser. The mandrel has a profile to
accept the connector in use below the BOP. If the drilling/completion program calls
for surface casing tiebacks, then the mandrel will contain the appropriate load
shoulders and seal areas. In such cases, top tensioning capacity must be
considered. In all applications, a seating shoulder for landing a test plug must be
machined into the mandrel to facilitate testing the BOP while connected to the riser.
2.6 STRESS JOINTS
Stress joints are deployed to mitigate the affect of fatigue in the riser at known “hot
spots” located just below the surface BOP and just above the SIS. The design of the
stress joint will vary, subject to fatigue life requirements, vessel motions,
manufacturing limitations and operational requirements.
The fatigue life of the stress joint is pre-determined by assuming a maximum number
of in-service days for the stress joint and applying a 10:1 safety factor. The stress
joint is first modeled to confirm survivability in “everyday” weather conditions for a
period equal to the number of in-service days x 10 days FOS. The stress joint is
also modeled to confirm survivability. Depending on the area of operation, a10-year
or 1-year storm is utilized for the analysis. The stress joint should survive for a 24-
30 hour period, generally being equal to 10 times the duration of the design storm.
When the stress joint reaches its designed fatigue life, in terms of maximum days in
operation, it should be removed from service.
HQS-OPS-HB-02
OPERATIONS
The base case utilizes flanged stress joints, 13-5/8” 15M API flange x 13-5/8” Vetco
HMF pin. The 15M API flange is orientated up for the upper stress joint and down
for the lower stress joint. This is required to satisfy the higher bending loads at the
extremities of the riser. The wall is tapered from 1.00” (14.413” OD) to 0.481”
(13.375” OD). Each joint is approximately 22 ft. long and made of N-80 material.
The base case stress joint is designed to plastically deform to 1% of strain at

maximum transient excursion with one mooring line failure in a 10-yr storm. The
upper and lower stress joints are identical. A minimum of one spare stress joint is
recommended.
2.7 STRESS JOINT SAVER SUBS
The stress joint saver subs are nothing more than an extension of the stress joint
design and philosophy discussed in section 2.6. The saver sub concept is part of
the base case philosophy. The saver sub facilitates the manufacturing process by
limiting the length of the stress joints and providing a means to more conveniently
renew the nearest threaded casing connection without replacing the entire stress
joint. The saver sub is smaller and therefore easier to handle, re-machine and less
expensive. Use of the saver sub also eliminates the need to remove the mandrels
(flanged to the end of the stress joints) when re-cutting the casing connection.
The base case scenario incorporates a 13-5/8” 10M flange on the outer end
(extremity) of the saver sub (to flange together with the associated stress joint) and a
threaded casing connection on the opposite end to connect to the casing riser. The
wall thickness is uniform to accommodate the 13-3/8” riser. The construction
material of the tube is selected to suit the casing grade. Each joint is 13 ft. long and
made of N-80 material. The upper and lower stress joints saver subs are identical. A
minimum of two spare stress joint saver subs are recommended, depending on the
duration of the wells and proximity to suitable facilities to re-cut the casing thread.
Both saver subs should be replaced after each well. The end casing connection of
the used saver sub will be re-cut prior to its re-use.
2.8 RISER
The base case scenario considers the use of 13-3/8” grade P-110, 68 ppf casing
with NSCC connections. Other casing connections such as VAM TOP or VAM TOP
FE have proven to enhance the fatigue performance of the threaded connection.
The recommended practice is to utilize the casing as riser for 1 well only.
Subsequent use of the riser is permissible but only as casing below the mudline.
The size of the riser is driven by well construction criteria such as the number of
casing strings required, size of casing hangers / running tools and well completion
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OPERATIONS
requirements (tubing & hanger sizes). A smaller riser is preferred due to its ease of
handling, lower weight and lower mud volumes and associated weights. This has a
direct impact on the top tensioning requirement, a critical factor in utilizing an older
generation vessel in water depths beyond its traditional working envelope.
Generally, removal of the traditional marine riser and subsea BOP from the drilling
unit will result in additional deck space and variable load when compared to
conventional drilling operations.
There are numerous riser options available. The base case is perhaps the least
expensive option. More elaborate purpose-built riser can be used and such riser
can be fitted with buoyancy to mitigate the requirements for costly upgrades to the
drilling unit’s tensioning capacity. The optimum solution is program specific and
subject to the availability of drilling units.
2.9 TEST STUMPS
Two 13-5/8” 15M Vetco H-4 test stumps are included in the base case scenario, one
for the surface BOP and one for the SIS (Seafloor Isolation System). The test stump
has a Vetco H-4, 10M mandrel with appropriate test ports. Both the SIS and Surface
BOP are stored on the test stump in the moon pool area.
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OPERATIONS
2.10 TESTING & RUNNING TOOLS
2.10.1 SURFACE BOP TEST TOOL
Lands in surface wellhead mandrel and allows full pressure test of BOP without
applying pressure to the riser.
2.10.2 SIS TEST TOOL
Allows for pressure test of SIS without requiring a complete riser pressure test. This
tool has an isolation seal in the lower riser mandrel and another in the subsea
wellhead housing. The tool then allows for a pressure test between the packers,
isolating the riser and well bore system from the test pressure.
2.10.3 SUBSEA WELLHEAD & CASING HANGER RUNNING TOOLS
• Wellhead Cam Actuated Running Tool is used to run the subsea wellhead in
open water.
• Casing Hanger / Seal Assembly Running Tool is run within the drilling riser on
drill pipe and is used to land the casing hanger, set the seal assembly and
test the seal assembly inside the subsea wellhead housing.
2.10.4 RUNNING/PULLING TOOL, HMF PIN
For engaging upper stress joint saver sub.
2.11 SIS (SEAFLOOR ISOLATION SYSTEM)
The SIS serves as the second barrier in Surface BOP drilling operations, providing
the capability to shut-in the well in the event of an emergency such as a catastrophic
failure of the riser. It is equipped with an upper and lower hydraulic connector. The
connectors provide operational flexibility, allowing for re-entry into the well or
changing to a higher pressure rated riser to account for increased formation
pressures or well testing operations. The SIS is located at the mudline and
deployed by running the assembly on the bottom of the riser. An acoustic control
system is used as the primary means to operate selected SIS functions. SIS
equipment components are described below. The acoustic control system is
discussed in section 2.12.
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2.11.1 UPPER CONNECTOR & LOWER RISER MANDREL
The base case utilizes a Vetco 13-5/8” 15M H-4 connector installed on the top of the
SIS to connect to the lower riser mandrel.
The lower riser mandrel is flanged to the lower stress joint. The purpose of the lower
riser mandrel is to serve as the connection between the SIS and the riser. The
mandrel has a profile to accept the SIS upper connector.
The H-4 connector is flanged to the top of the SIS ram preventer in an inverted
position. The inverted orientation is to allow functioning of the connector by use of
stored hydraulic fluid from the SIS accumulator bottles. This arrangement eliminates
the need for a control umbilical to be deployed along the riser. The connector is also
fitted with a guide funnel to facilitate re-entry of the riser.
2.11.2 RAM PREVENTER, SIS
The base case includes 1 ea. 13-5/8” 10M ram preventer with 13-5/8” 10M flanges
top & bottom, equipped with blind/shear rams capable of shearing 5” OD, 19.5 ppf,
grade S-135 drill pipe.
2.11.3 LOWER CONNECTOR
The base case utilizes a Vetco 13-5/8” 15M H-4 connector. The SIS lower connector
is flanged to the bottom of the SIS ram preventer. The lower connector will engage
the subsea wellhead that was deployed with the 13-3/8” casing string.
2.11.4 ROV INTERVENTION
All functions on the SIS can be operated by the ROV through use of the ROV
intervention panel. In addition, the ROV must be capable of recharging the SIS
accumulator bottles as well as deploying and recovering the acoustic control
transducers.
2.12 ACOUSTIC CONTROL SYSTEM
For the base case design, Kongsberg Simrad was selected as the acoustic vendor
and ABBOSI (ABB Offshore Inc) was selected as the hydraulic pod vendor. Much of
the system description and basis of design information from these two vendors has
been used in this document. The acoustic control system selected was the
Kongsberg Simrad ACS 413, (modified to suit Surface BOP operations), operating in
the low frequency (11 – 13.5 Khz) range and suitable for operations in up to 2,300
meters (7,546 ft.) of water.
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An acoustic control system was selected to eliminate the requirement to deploy an

umbilical with the riser. Historically, acoustic control systems have been used as a
back up system. However, the proposed acoustic control system for the Seafloor
Isolation System (SIS) differs in two ways from the standard acoustic back up
system. First, in this application the acoustic control system will open and close the
shear ram as well as lock and unlock the wellhead connector. Secondly, the
acoustic control system will be the primary means of control for the SIS with the
ROV serving as the back up control system.
The following regulations must be considered in the design of the of the acoustic
control system:
• API 16 D Specifications for Drilling Well Control Equipment

• API 16E Recommended Systems for Drilling Well Control Equipment and
Practice for Design of Control
• API RP 53 Recommended Practices for Blowout Prevention Equipment
Systems for Drilling Wells
The acoustic control system for the SIS should be designed to operate in the
conditions and parameters described below:
• Maximum water depth for intended area of operation.

• Electronics capable of operating in a temperature range of 0-50°C.
• Batteries in the system must have a minimum operating life equal to the
longest duration well to be drilled.
• Where practical, battery packs should be replaceable while the SIS is
deployed
• Battery packs in the system are to be isolated and dedicated to one of the two
seafloor transponders and electronic units such that a short in one set of
batteries does not affect the other transponder and its electronic unit.
• Acoustic system is to have analog read-back capability such that pressures
and temperatures can be ascertained from surface on demand.
• One (1) pressure switch mounted on the accumulator manifold to give an
instantaneous alarm to the surface should accumulator pressure drop below a
preset value.
The SIS control system consists of two primary packages. An electronic / acoustic
package is used to transmit command signals from the surface to the subsea
equipment and to send status and analog read-backs from the subsea equipment to
the surface. The hydraulic package directs fluid from the charged accumulator
through the control valves to activate a particular function. The electronic system is
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linked to the hydraulic system through a cable and connector that interface and fire a
solenoid valve, which then activates a hydraulic valve.
2.12.1 ELECTRONIC / ACOUSTIC PACKAGE
The electronic / acoustic package of the SIS control system is divided into two parts,
the surface equipment and the subsea equipment.
The surface equipment consists of the following major components:
• PC with touch screen control mounted in a safe area (OIM’s office).

• Touch Screen control panel located at the Driller’s console, suitable for
hazardous area use.
• UPS capable of two hours operations in case of vessel power failure.
• Transceiver unit.
• Independent portable control unit and dunking transducer, capable of
functioning SIS components from remote locations (e.g. lifeboat).
• Hull mounted transducer.
• Data logger.
The subsea equipment consists of the following major components:
• One pressure housing, rated for 3,000 meters of water, containing two
separate electronic units.
• Two transducers connected to the pressure housing by 50 meters of cable
• ROV mounted transceivers with transducer.
• Electric Riser Angle Sensor.
• Accumulator pressure switch.
• Accumulator pressure sensor.
• Well bore temperature and pressure sensor.
• Pressure sensor downstream of pressure regulator.
2.12.2 HYDRAULIC PACKAGE
The hydraulic package of the SIS control system consists of the following major
components:
• Acoustic control pod

• Inclinometer, x and y axis indication
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• Pressure switch / pressure transmitter

• Nine (9) solenoids (expansion to 12 possible)
• Nine (9) SPM valves (expansion to 12 possible)
Additional safeguards were incorporated into the control system in order to increase
its reliability. Traditional acoustic control systems did not incorporate sufficient
redundancy or health monitoring features. In order to utilize an acoustic control
system as a primary control mechanism, critical functions were assigned a
secondary (back-up) function with independent control circuitry. In addition, health
monitoring of the system was added to assure the system performs satisfactory
when required.
2.12.3 REDUNDANCY
Important functions are duplicated in the system. The System Arm and Ram Close
functions are each fitted with two solenoid valves and a common shuttle valve. The
subsea electronics package consists of two identical units contained within one
pressure housing. Either unit can operate the solenoids. If communication can not
be established with the first electronic unit, the system automatically switches to the
second unit.
The following SIS functions are acoustically controlled:
1. Upper Connector – Lock

2. Upper Connector – Unlock
3. Shear Ram – Close
4. Shear Ram – Close, Secondary
5. Shear Ram – Open
6. Lower Connector – Lock
7. Acoustic Control System – Arm
8. Acoustic Control System – Arm, Secondary
9. Acoustic Control System – Disarm
An ROV mounted transceiver also provides a separate communication path in the

event of difficult acoustic conditions. In addition, a completely separate and portable
control unit and transducer is available in case of failure of the main control
transceiver or control station(s).
ROV intervention also serves as a back-up control device for all the above
acoustically controlled functions. An ROV intervention panel is located on the SIS
package and is equipped with hot stabs for all SIS controls and is the primary means
to actuate the following SIS functions:
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1. Lower Connector – Unlock

2. Accumulator Charge
3. Accumulator Dump
4. Upper Connector Gasket Release
5. Lower Connector Gasket Release
2.12.4 HEALTH MONITORING
The system will continuously monitor a pressure switch on the subsea accumulator
bank. If the pressure drops below minimum operating pressure, the subsea
electronics will automatically transmit this alarm condition to the surface. The system
will time-tag and log all commands that have been transmitted, including the results
of those commands.
The system will perform internal checks on the subsea electronic modules and
batteries to ensure their ability to operate when requested. A check of potential
current leakage is performed before any solenoid is operated. If any current leakage
is detected, the system aborts the command and notifies the operator. Current path
detection is available upon demand when interrogating the system health status
manually. Continuous monitoring of solenoids and potential current leakage paths is
not performed. Such capability is not included in the design of any acoustic control
system at this time. To add this feature would require an extensive development
effort.
The following discrete information is available:
• Subsea electronics: OK or Not OK

• Hydraulic manifold pressure: OK or Not OK
• Command/Readback Mismatch: (Pressure switch status on function does not
match last command)
• Accumulator pressure: OK or Not OK
• Battery warning
• Solenoid current out of limits (lower or upper)
• Current path detection when common return path is on, but solenoid not
actuated.
• Each function is monitored via a pressure switch on the downstream side of
the solenoid
2.12.5 THE FOLLOWING ANALOG STATUS INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE:
• Subsea accumulator pressure

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• Riser angle information

• Well bore pressure
• Well bore temperature
2.13 MUD MAT
Soil strength, well construction and anticipated bending loads must be considered
when designing the mud mat. The mud mat should be designed to be deployed
while jetting in the structural casing, generally by making use of a drill-ahead tool.
The mud mat should be equipped with a funnel to facilitate re-entry of the drill string
or casing after the top hole section is drilled. Specifications of the funnel should
consider wellhead design, connector dimensions and the impact of any subsea
completion/production equipment as well as any future intervention plans (e.g. re-
entry with conventional BOP stack). For the base case, a simple 8 ft. x 8 ft. mud mat
is utilized together with 80 ft. of 26” OD conductor pipe.
2.14 SUBSEA WELLHEAD
The subsea wellhead interface is between the SIS lower connector and the 13-3/8”
downhole casing. The subsea wellhead serves multiple functions, depending on the
drilling/completion program. First, the subsea wellhead mandrel serves as a high
pressure housing and structural foundation. The subsea wellhead mandrel also
provides a connecting point for the SIS and sealing interfaces for the connector.
The base case utilizes a Vetco 13-5/8” H-4 profile mandrel. Secondly, when it is
desirable to have casing hangers (as opposed to liner hangers), the subsea
wellhead housing provides an internal landing point and seal area for the casing
hanger. In the base case, the subsea wellhead housing provides a landing/sealing
area for a 9-5/8” casing hanger. The subsea wellhead has a 12-1/4” drift to
complement the 13-3/8” casing riser system. Finally, if the operation calls for the
completion of the well, the subsea wellhead serves as a connection point for the
subsea tree. The various options for completion are discussed in Section 9.0.
3 LOCATION & PROJECT DATA
In order to properly assess the feasibility of a project for the application of Surface
BOP drilling operations, the following information must be provided:
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3.1 WATER DEPTH & LOCATION
The range of water depths for the drilling program must be specified, including the
geographical location of the well(s) in order to apply the correct oceanographic and
meteorological data for the purpose of conducting the mooring and riser analysis.
3.2 DRILLING PROGRAM
The number of wells, duration of each well and desired start date should be
specified. This information can impact the design of certain drilling equipment such
as stress joint fatigue life and acoustic control system battery life. The start date can
have an impact on seasonal weather conditions and therefore affect the outcome of
the riser & mooring analysis. The duration of the program may be insufficient to
justify the start-up costs associated with converting a drilling unit to Surface BOP
mode.
3.3 FORMATION PRESSURE / MUD WEIGHT
Formation pressure determines the maximum anticipated mud weight for the well
and may also require the use of a smaller, higher pressure rated, riser for drilling
lower well sections. Mud weight has a direct impact on top tensioning requirements.
3.4 WELL DEPTH / CASING PROGRAM
The well depth may have an impact on the number of casing strings required to
reach geological targets. The base case utilizes a 13-3/8” riser system that limits the
number of casing strings that can be deployed. A larger riser may be required to
reach deeper geological targets where additional strings of casing are required.
Larger riser (non-buoyed) will be heavier and holds more mud. This in turn requires
more top tensioning capacity.
3.5 SOIL
Soil data (density, shear strength, friction coefficient, etc.) should be used in
accordance with API RP 2A for calculating P-Y resistance curves. The soil data is
required to design a foundation for the structural casing and for the purpose of
conducting the riser and mooring analysis. Due to soil variations within the same
region of operations, detailed riser analysis work should include a sensitivity study
on the base case soil condition by investigating a range from 0.5x to 10x the soil
stiffness values. Both clays and sands should be investigated if the region is
subjected to both bottom conditions.
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3.6 SHALLOW GAS
A wide scan seismic survey should be conducted to ascertain the presence of

shallow gas.
3.7 BATHYMETRY
A bathymetric survey must be conducted over the entire anchor pattern, including
bottom hazard and obstruction identification.
3.8 OCEANOGRAPHIC & METEOROLOGIC
Site specific wind, wave, current and tidal information is required as specified below:
1-minute mean wind speeds for the 99% non-exceedence, 1-year, 5-year and 10-
year return events for annual and seasonal (preferably monthly) periods.
Significant and maximum wave heights for the 99% non-exceedence, 1-year, 5-year
and 10-year return events for annual and seasonal (preferably monthly) periods.
Wave scatter diagrams for fatigue calculations (monthly & yearly).
Current profiles for the 99% non-exceedence, 1-year, 5-year and 10-year return
events including trends such as collinear or reversing profiles with seasonal
influence. Unique events such as loop currents or shelf currents should also be
provided with information on persistence of events (i.e. frequency and duration).
Current scatter diagrams or 10% to 90% non-exceedence profiles should be

provided for VIV fatigue calculations.
Tidal extremes for each location.
When possible, directionality can be used to reduce the conservatism of collinear

environment assumptions and as such this information can significantly affect the
outcome of the riser and mooring analysis.
4 DESIGN PREMISE
The Surface BOP system must satisfy the following criteria during the design phase.
Criteria specified below are considered minimum requirements for maintaining a
safe level of riser integrity for Surface BOP operations and may not be relaxed. The
riser must maintain gas tight integrity under anticipated worst case conditions. The
return period environments can account for seasonal extremes provided the drilling
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program starting date and duration is established and operations are conducted in
accordance with the analysis design criteria.
4.1 OPERATING CONDITIONS
The Surface BOP system will be designed to operate and survive in the three (3)
following conditions:
4.1.1 NORMAL DRILLING
Routine well and environmental conditions where normal drilling operations are
conducted. This condition can be characterized by angles throughout the riser
remaining below a mean 2 degree limit and vessel excursions less than 2% of water
depth. The riser system must be designed so that “Normal Drilling” conditions exist
in up to at least the 99% non-exceedence storm and current profile event with the
aid of mooring system position management to reduce mean vessel excursions.
4.1.2 SURVIVAL, CONNECTED
Operations are curtailed by severe environmental conditions where drilling is no

longer possible due to excessive riser angles or vessel excursions or in the event of
a well control or well testing situation. This condition can be characterized by angles
throughout the riser remaining below a mean 6 - 8 degree limit and vessel
excursions less than approximately 4% of water depth. The riser system must be
designed so that maximum “Survival, Connected” conditions exist in up to a
minimum 1-year return period storm and current profile event with the aid of mooring
system position management to reduce mean vessel excursions. In the event that a
mooring line is damaged, the riser should not exceed design stress limits for this
event at the maximum transient offset following the line failure.
4.1.3 SURVIVAL, DISCONNECTED
The well is secure and the riser is disconnected from the SIS and either suspended
from the vessel or fully retrieved. This condition represents the maximum mooring
system design condition under which the riser and BOP should be examined in the
moonpool / hull interference. An environmental condition on the order of the 10-year
return event should be considered for this condition.
4.2 RISER SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA
The riser system will be designed in accordance with industry guidelines for drilling
operations and in accordance with sections of the following recommended practices:
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API RP 16Q Recommended Practice for Design, Selection, Operation and

Maintenance of Marine Drilling Risers
API RP 16R Specification for Marine Drilling Risers
API RP 2RD Recommended Practice for Design of Risers for Floating

Production Systems and Tension Leg Platforms
API RP 16Q and API RP 2RD differ greatly in recommended allowable stress limits.
For the purpose of Surface BOP operations, the stress criteria given in API RP 2RD
will generally be applied for the following reasons:
Unlike conventional marine drilling risers, the riser will always be new casing and
replaced after each well. Therefore, fatigue and riser loading history are better
known than in the case of conventional riser.
The code provides justification for increasing allowed stress levels based on the
probability of occurrence and consequence of failure for each design condition. For
low probability, extreme events, this methodology is applied to avoid over designing
the riser.
The code (reference appendix c ) requires across wall stress calculations in regions
where the large section changes occur. (e.g. in the stress joint connections at the
surface BOP and SIS). It is not appropriate to use thin wall calculations to assess
system integrity in these locations.
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Table 4.1 outlines the required criteria from each of the specified codes above as
they are used for the various operating conditions A – C defined in Section 4.1.
Table 4.1 - Riser System Design Conditions and Criteria
(A) Connected Normal (B) Survival

Condition (C) Survival Disconnected5
Drilling Connected5
Minimum Return Period 99% Non-exceedence 5-yr or 10-yr Return 10-yr Return Storm &
Environment Event Storm & Current1 Current
Normal operations & Well secured, SIS Riser disconnected and

Description
well control ram closed, WOW hung off from vessel
Intact & 1 line
Mooring condition 1 line damaged ---
damaged
Tmin / Tmin /
Tension2 Tmin / Tfail ---
Tfail Tfail
Riser Content Max Mud Gas3 8.6 ppg 8.6 ppg bottom open to sea
Internal Surface Max
0 psi 0 psi ---
Pressure Design
Allowable Stress, % yield
67% 80% 100% 80%
(total combined)
Riser Slope wrt
No contact with
Vertical(4) (max 1-2 deg 4 deg 6-8 deg
moonpool/hull
recommended)
Fatigue Per Section 4.4
NOTE:
1 Minimum 5-yr return environment for operations away from other

structures, 10-yr return for operations adjacent to structures.
2 Tmin as calculated according to API RP 16Q, Tfail = Tmin – loss of
tensioner(s).
3 For DST operations, a full gas column and associated surface pressure
to be applied; for non-DST operations the riser is designed for 1/3rd
mud, 2/3rd gas content at maximum drilling depth and mud weight.
4 Riser slope allowed depends on amount of drill string rotation. The use
of a downhole motor or turbine is recommended to reduce wear inside
the riser. Rotating the drill string inside the riser is not recommended
and should be avoided or limited.
5 A storm packer or cement plug should be set below the SIS to provide
an additional barrier in these cases.
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4.3 MOORING SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA
The mooring system will be designed to the following recommended practices:
API RP 2SK Recommended Practice for Design and Analysis of Station-

keeping Systems for Floating Structures
NOTE: Where applicable, POSMOOR code may be substituted for API RP 2SK
API RP 2SM Design, Manufacture, Installation and Maintenance of Synthetic

Fiber Ropes for Offshore Mooring – First Edition
NOTE: Applied only when synthetic rope is used in the mooring system
The appropriate code is to be applied based on the mooring system used in the
Surface BOP application. Table 4.2 provides a summary of basic API RP 2SK code
requirements.
Table 4.2 - API RP 2SK Design Requirements
(A) (B) (C)

Operating Condition Normal Connected, Disconnected,
Drilling Survival Survival
5-yr or 10-yr Return
Transocean Minimum Return 10-yr Return Storm
99% Non-Exceed. Storm and
Period Environment and Current
Current(1)
Intact Condition
Line Tension
Quasi-static Analysis FOS ≥ 2.00 FOS ≥ 2.00 FOS ≥ 2.00
Line Dynamic Analysis FOS ≥ 1.67 FOS ≥ 1.67 FOS ≥ 1.67
Anchor Uplift Angle < 5° < 5° < 5°
Anchor Design Load
Line-Dynamic Analysis FOS ≥ 0.80 FOS ≥ 0.80 FOS ≥ 0.80
Offset 2 – 4% WD 6 – 8% WD
No requirement
(Transocean Recommended) (estimated) (estimated)
Slacking Leeward Lines Allowed Allowed(2) Allowed(2)
Thruster Assistance(3) All -1 @ 70% All -1 @ 70%(2) All -1 @ 70%(2)
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Table 4.2 - API RP 2SK Design Requirements (Continued)
One-Line Damaged Condition

Line Tension
Transient Excursion Tensions
Anchor Uplift Angle < 10° < 10° < 10°
Anchor Load Not specified Not specified Not specified
Offset
within riser limits within riser limits within riser limits
(Transocean Recommended)
Slacking Leeward Lines Allowed Allowed(2) Allowed(2)
Thruster Assistance All -1 @ 70% All -1 @ 70%(2) All -1 @ 70%(2)
NOTE
1 Minimum 5-yr return environment for operations away from other

structures, 10-yr return for operations adjacent to structures.
2 If vessel is manned slacking lines and thruster assistance is allowed, if
hurricane or cyclone event requires vessel abandonment, lines
adjustment and thrusters are not considered in analysis.
3 Manual remote control thruster assistance limited to 70% thrust,
automatic thruster assist increases to 100% thrust. Thruster losses
such as thruster-hull, thruster-thruster, and current inflow effects
should be considered.
4.4 RISER FATIGUE LIFE
Fatigue life shall be estimated for both wave action and vortex induced vibration
(VIV) conditions. Determining acceptable fatigue life duration for Surface BOP
operations is outlined below.
4.4.1 STRESS CONCENTRATION FACTORS (SCF) AND S-N CURVES
An appropriate SCF is essential to estimate fatigue life with any accuracy. A SCF
from manufacturer FE model calculations of the coupling or instrumented testing
must be used in feasibility and design work. Once a SCF has been agreed upon,
sensitivity to changes in the parameter shall be investigated in the detailed design
cases for the region of operation. As a rule of thumb, three SCFs should be
investigated: base case, base +25%, base +50%. So for instance, a base case SCF
of 3.0 would suggests that additional sensitivity cases for SCFs of 3.75 and 4.50 are
also calculated. In addition to the riser coupling, SCFs created by the SIS, guide
base and in the Surface BOP assembly must also be considered. Manufacturer data
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utilized to model the coupling pertains to local analysis conducted on the coupling
itself. The global riser analysis is conducted with the use of industry accepted
software as discussed in Section 5.
A representative S-N curve for the casing used as the riser will be applied to
determine the fatigue damage accumulation for both wave action and VIV
conditions. The formulation will follow the common S-N calculation approach using
the formulation:
N = C [∆σ]-m
Where N = Number of cycles to failure

C,m = Empirical constants from testing
∆σ = Stress range
Curves may be used from definitions in documents such as API RP 2A Planning,

Designing, and Constructing Fixed Offshore Platforms and DNV Classification Note
No. 30.2 Fatigue Strength Analysis for Mobile Offshore Units.
4.4.2 FATIGUE LIFE REQUIREMENTS
Fatigue life requirements are based on the estimated well duration in combination
with extreme events as well as daily environments. For evaluation of adequate
fatigue life the following criteria must be applied:
1) For fatigue based on wave scatter diagrams (wave action) and probabilistic
current profiles (VIV fatigue) the fatigue life must be a minimum of 10x the
duration of the well program.
2) For extreme events (storm and current) the fatigue life in the riser must be a
minimum of 3x, and preferably10x, the duration (persistence) of the event.
As an example, if a well program is estimated to take 20 days, then;
• Daily event required fatigue life = 20 days x 10 = 200 days of combined wave
and current fatigue life based on the wave scatter diagrams and probabilistic
current profiles
• Extreme event required fatigue life = duration of event x 10
− Max storm duration = 0.5 days = 5 days required fatigue life

− Max current duration = 3 days = 30 days required fatigue life
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The values here are for example purposes only and should be determined on a site-
specific basis for the extreme event duration.
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5 RISER ANALYSIS
The riser must be analyzed and designed to meet the criteria outlined in Section 2.
This section will discuss the types of analyses that will be required, assumptions that
can be made and the feasibility and detailed analyses case matrix.
5.1 SPACE OUT
A riser space out should be determined that meets the following criteria:
1) The telescopic joint stroke should be such to allow the vessel to heave down
while over well center at low tide and have a stroke margin remaining prior to
scope in of the inner barrel. For instance:
Min TJ strokeout = Max single amplitude vessel heave in survival connected

storm
+ Max tidal change from mean sea level

+ margin (equal to accuracy of available pup joint selection)
2) The Surface BOP should remain out of the wave action zone in up to the
maximum Survival, Connected condition in order to avoid wave slamming
loads on the Surface BOP and high dynamic stresses in the riser just below
the BOP connector.
3) Riser static + dynamic running loads shall remain below the available design
hoisting rating of the derrick and equipment.
5.2 DYNAMIC ANALYSIS
A global riser analysis software program must be used to model the riser and below
mud line casing using the non-linear soil p-y curves provided (by the Operator) or
calculated with soil parameters according to API RP 2A. For sites with no Operator
supplied soil data, in-house data can be used for feasibility work until such time as
site specific data is available. The calculation can be completed in the frequency or
time domain provided the riser can be accurately modeled in the software to include
items such as tapered stress joints, lumped masses representing the Surface BOP
and SIS, riser joints, soil interactions and wave action on a submerged or partially
submerged BOP.
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5.2.1 INPUT PARAMETERS
Drag coefficients should be verified with a preliminary VIV case in order to

incorporate the effect of VIV amplified drag on the riser, as the parameter will
influence deflections and stresses. Selection of drag coefficients in the range of 0.7
to 1.2 for typical cylindrical tubes is sufficient for preliminary analysis work, however,
final design will require justification of Cd values through representative VIV
calculations for the design current profiles.
Tensions calculated according to Section 7.1, Tmin and Tfail, should be converted
from wire line pull to actual vertical pull on the riser for analysis purposes. This
process is typically done through application of a friction and fleet angle efficiency
factor specific to each vessel unless the tensioners and their fleet angles are
explicitly modeled.
Vessel specific response amplitude operators (RAOs) for the drafts at which the
vessel will operate are required in order to accurately predict dynamic stresses in the
upper region of the riser where the stiff Surface BOP is connected to the riser.
Generic vessel RAOs should not be used in analysis of the Surface BOP for detailed
design cases.
The use of a mud mat or guide base in the riser system should be accounted for in
the soil interaction calculation by modeling an appropriate diameter cylinder at the
mud line. Manufacturing wall thickness tolerances should be accounted for in the
riser analysis model. In lieu of available data, standard API tolerances shall be
applied (typically – 12.5%).
5.2.2 ANALYSIS CASE MATRIX
In order to predict the performance of the riser and mooring system in a variety of
scenarios a preliminary case matrix has been developed as outlined in Table 5.1.
This case matrix is not intended to be an exhaustive list of cases to be investigated,
rather it should be considered as a starting point and may show more or less
analysis is needed under certain conditions to prove fitness for purpose and
operability. For feasibility work, the minimum number of cases that should be
investigated are noted with a “*” next to the case number.
A range of vessel excursions from -4% WD up environment to 10% WD down

environment should be included for each case so that maximum offset limits can be
determined and compared with mooring system performance.
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5.2.3 ANALYSIS RESULTS
The results summarized from the analysis should include, but are not limited to, the
following:
• Riser deflections
• Riser slopes (upper, lower, middle)
• Stresses for various regions in the riser (near surface, middle, through bottom
shear ram, below mud casing, etc.)
• Dynamic stresses
• Bending moments distributions
• Tension distributions
• Tensioner/telescopic joint stroke versus offset
• Moonpool and hull clearance of riser system versus offset
• Limiting offset due to stresses and stroke requirements
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Table 5.1 - Riser Analysis Case Matrix (Feasibility & Detailed Design Scopes)
Case Design Riser Surface Soil

Tension (1) Comment
No. Environment Content Pressure Condition
Base
1-0 A Tmin Max Mud 0 psi Normal drilling
case
Base Normal drilling,
2-0 A Tfail Max Mud 0 psi
case tensioner loss
Base
3-0 A Tmin Mud/Gas Max Normal well control
case
Base Normal well control,
4-0 A Tfail Mud/Gas Max
case tensioner loss
Base
5-0* B Tmin Max Mud 0 psi Max connected
case
10x
Max connected soil
5-1* B Tmin Max Mud 0 psi Base
stiffness sensitivity
case
0.5x
Max connected soil
5-2* B Tmin Max Mud 0 psi Base
stiffness sensitivity
case
Base Max connected,
6-0 B Tfail Max Mud 0 psi
case tensioner loss
Base Max connected, well
7-0* B Tmin Mud/Gas Max
case control
Max connected well
Base
8-0 B Tfail Mud/Gas Max control, tensioner
case
loss
Base
9-0* C Tmin SW 0 psi Survival connected
case
10x Survival connected
9-1 C Tmin SW 0 psi Base soil stiffness
case sensitivity
Base Survival connected,
10-0 C Tfail SW 0 psi
case tensioner loss
Disconnected
11-
D --- SW(2) --- --- survival / contact
0*(3)
analysis
NOTE: * Denotes cases conducted for preliminary feasibility study of a location
1 For DST operations, a full gas column and associated surface pressure
to be applied; for non-DST operations the riser is designed for 2/3rd
mud, 1/3rd gas content at maximum drilling depth and mud weight.
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2 Riser should be investigated for open to SW condition.

3 Both axial dynamic (check for compression) and lateral deflection
(check for hull interaction)
5.3 HANG-OFF ANALYSIS – LATERAL & AXIAL
Upper and lower SIS connectors require the riser to be investigated for disconnect
performance in the survival storm and current conditions.
5.3.1 INPUT PARAMETERS

The riser should be modeled with the telescopic joint closed and latched with the
weight of the riser string held on the rigid tensioner wires. The riser will be free to
rotate about the upper flex/ball joint. The riser is filled with seawater and the bottom
is open to the sea so as not to trap the internal fluid to move with the system. This
condition is typical of a conventional hard hang-off scenario.
A preliminary disconnected riser VIV case run is recommended to determine the

effective drag coefficients to use in a lateral contact analysis.
5.3.2 ANALYSIS CASE MATRIX
The condition to be investigated is shown as case 11-0 in Table 5.1. If the maximum
wave and current are combined and the riser does not show interference/contact
with the moonpool or hull, stress limits are not exceeded, and compression is not
experienced in the riser then no further analysis cases are required. If the riser does
not meet the criteria during the combined maximum wave and current condition then
the following should be completed:
1) For the maximum wave, reduce the current profile until the riser meets the
requirements.
2) For the maximum current condition, reduce the sea state until the riser meets
the requirement.
5.3.3 ANALYSIS RESULTS
Results from this analysis should outline the maximum combined sea state and
current combination in which the riser can remain disconnected and safely
suspended from the vessel.
5.3.4 FATIGUE ANALYSIS – WAVE ACTION & VIV
The fatigue life of the riser system must be determined and compared to the
requirements as outlined in Section 4.4. For this analysis, both wave-induced and
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VIV fatigue assessments are required. The fatigue life requirements are based on
two separate criteria: 1) probabilistic and 2) extreme event. These two calculations
will be addressed separately in analysis.
6 MOORING ANALYSIS
A mooring analysis must be conducted to show the system is in compliance with

code requirements as outlined in Section 4.3. The analysis can be either quasi-
static or dynamic, however one line damage transient analysis will be required to
assess riser integrity under the extreme offset condition. The overall performance of
the mooring system will be designed to accommodate the somewhat restricted offset
limits of the SBOP riser system. Therefore the mooring configuration must be stiff
enough to prevent large vessel excursions in both the riser Maximum Drilling and
Survival, Connected conditions to prevent, even in the damaged mooring condition
with transient offset, the specified riser factors of safety from being exceeded. In
addition, the system should be set up to allow sufficient line adjustments to correct
for mean excursion in the Survival, Connected condition.
In the past both conventional wire-chain catenary and synthetic taut-line system
have been used to support Surface BOP operations. The following sections will
outline assumptions and input parameters for the mooring assessment, minimum
scope of mooring analysis required for feasibility and detailed design work, and the
analysis results required for satisfying code requirements and providing operations
with guidance on mooring line adjustments during storm events.
6.1 INPUT PARAMETERS
Surface BOP offset restrictions require a practical evaluation of the mooring

performance in order to prevent over design of the riser. For this reason it is
recommended that directionality (wind, wave and current) is investigated in the
mooring study if the data is available for the specific location. Extreme wind, wave,
and current components should be determined for approximately eight compass
headings (N, NE, E, etc.). A rig heading should be selected to minimize
environmental forces on the vessel to limit excursions. Once determined, cases
should be run for the most loaded head, quarter, and beam quadrants.
For deep water, mooring system damping parameters can play a large role in the
system performance and should be carefully considered before running case
studies. For damaged condition cases, both the most loaded and second most
loaded lines should be broken in the analysis to determine the worst-case vessel
excursion.
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6.2 ANALYSIS CASE MATRIX
The mooring system performance should be investigated for the Maximum Drilling
and Survival (Connected & Disconnected) conditions. Table 6.1 provides an initial
analysis matrix. Like the riser analysis matrix, this table is intended to provide a
starting point for mooring analysis work. During the case study, preliminary results
may dictate a reduced or increased scope to provide sufficient knowledge of the
system performance to supply operational guidance and ensure fitness for purpose.
It is recommended that all cases outlined are run for both feasibility and detailed
studies since, during the feasibility stage, position management and mooring system
stiffness are critical to indicating Surface BOP operations are viable for limiting riser
offsets. The mooring analysis should be run in stages as follows:
• Run intact condition without line adjustments

• Adjust lines to correct for mean offset
• Note the most loaded and second most loaded lines
• Run one-line damaged cases for the most loaded and second most loaded
lines, following the line break no additional line adjustments are allowed.
6.3 ANALYSIS RESULTS

The results summarized from the analysis should include, but are not limited to, the
following:
• Mean excursions without and with line adjustments (subject to remaining

code compliant)
• Low frequency and wave frequency dynamic excursions
• Maximum transient excursions following line break
• Line tension factors of safety for intact, damaged and transient conditions
• Anchor loads and uplift angle
• Fairlead angles (including roll/pitch) in conjunction with bolster contact check
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Table 6.1 - Mooring System Analysis Case Matrix
Case Design Intact/ Line

Heading Comment
No. Environment Damaged Damaged
Line adjustments can be
1I A Bow Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
Most No line adjustments
1d A Bow Damaged loaded & following break of most
nd
2 most damaging line
2I A Quarter Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
2d A Quarter Damaged loaded & following break of most
nd
3I A Beam Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
3d A Beam Damaged loaded & following break of most
nd
4I B Bow Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
4d B Bow Damaged loaded & following break of most
nd
5I B Quarter Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
5d B Quarter Damaged loaded & following break of most
nd
6I B Beam Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
6d B Beam Damaged loaded & following break of most
nd
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Table 6.1 - Mooring System Analysis Case Matrix (Continue)

7I C Bow Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
7d C Bow Damaged loaded & following break of most
2nd most damaging line
8I C Quarter Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
8d C Quarter Damaged loaded & following break of most
9I C Beam Intact None used to reduce mean
offset.
9d C Beam Damaged loaded & following break of most
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7 RISER TENSIONING
7.1 MINIMUM REQUIRED TENSION
Using as-built or manufacturer data for casing weight, dimensions and strength, a
calculation according to API RP 16Q for tension requirement versus mud weight will
be completed to provide guidance to rig crew to prevent riser buckling in the event of
a tensioner failure(s). This calculation will provide the minimum required tension,
Tmin, that will be used in the dynamic riser calculation along with the Tfail case
investigating the riser performance after the sudden loss of a tensioner(s). Riser
tension requirement is calculated with the following formulation:
Tmin = TSRmin N / [Rf x (N-n)]

Where:
TSRmin= Minimum Slip Ring Tension = Wsfwt - Bnfbt + Ai [dmHm - dwHw] =

Tfail
Ws = Submerged Riser Weight above the point of consideration
fwt = Submerged Weight Tolerance Factor (minimum value = 1.05 unless
accurately weighted)
Bn = Net Lift of Buoyancy Material above the point of consideration
fbt = Buoyancy Loss and Tolerance Factor resulting from elastic
compression, longterm water absorption, and manufacturing tolerance.
(Maximum value = 0.96 unless accurately known by submerged
weighing under compression at rated depth)
Ai = Internal Cross Sectional Area of Riser including choke, kill, and
auxiliary fluid lines
dm = Drilling Fluid Weight Density
Hm = Drilling Fluid Column to point of consideration
dw = Sea Water Weight Density
Hw = Sea Water Column to point of consideration including storm surge and
tide
N = Number of Tensioners Supporting the Riser
n = Number of Tensioners Subject to Sudden Failure
Rf = Reduction Factor Relating Vertical Tension at the Slip Ring to
Tensioner Setting to account for fleet angle and mechanical efficiency
(usually 0.90 - 0.95 for non-drilling and drilling modes)
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7.2 RISER TENSIONING OPTIONS
Many older generation drilling units may not be capable of providing the minimum
required tension calculated in Section 7.1. In order to satisfy the requirement, four
primary alternatives are available:
1) Upgrade existing tensioning system

2) Use a purpose-built buoyed riser in conjunction with the (casing) riser system
3) Combination of upgraded tensioning system and purpose-built buoyed riser
4) Deploy an air can buoy in the riser string
Each of the above alternatives has its advantages and disadvantages as shown in
Table 7.3. Commercial implications are not addressed in this document.
Table 7.1, Riser Tensioning Options
Option A. PRO’S Con’s
a) Not transferable between

rigs
a) Future subsea drilling WD
b) Permanent deck load impact
Tensioner System increase
c) Costly, installation in
Upgrade b) Casing riser provided by
shipyard
operator
d) Space limitations
a) Purpose built riser provided

by Transocean
a) Transferable to other
b) Connected performance is
Purpose Built Riser with vessels
limited by hung-off mode
Buoyancy b) Removes need for buoy
performance
c) Control SAF for fatigue life
c) Slower running time and
stuck pipe issues
a) Vessel upgrade for
Combination of Tensioner marketing in greater WD a) Requires two systems to be
Upgrade and Purpose b) Partially transferable to upgraded
Built riser other rigs
a) Cost effective solution,
sole or in conjunction with a) Conducive to benign
Deployment of Air Can tensioner upgrade operating environments only
Buoy in Riser String b) Mitigates required b) Large single point failure
tensioner upgrades
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Table 7.2 and Table 7.3 represent 13-3/8” and 16” riser systems respectively. Each
table depicts the estimated maximum allowable mud weight for a given installed top
tension and water depth. These tables can also be used as a guideline for
determining the approximate top tension required for a drilling program where the
water depth and mud weight are known. This is a general guideline for the specified
riser and is to be used only as an initial feasibility check. A site specific assessment
is required to determine the precise requirements of the drilling program.
The following assumptions were used in the preparation of Tables 7.2 and 7.3:
1) No allowance for additional weight associated with tie-back of casing string to

Surface BOP wellhead.
2) No allowance for hang-off of drill string in Surface BOP.
3) Equipment weights and tensioner efficiencies:
• Surface BOP: 100 kips

• Telescopic Joint: 45 kips
• SIS: 60 kips
• Friction & Fleet Losses: 8%
• Maximum Allowed DTL: 90%
• Minimum Required Overpull: 20 kips
• Riser Weight Factors: Riser Steel = 1.02
4) Calculations for mud weight are done by static API RP 16Q calculation methods.
Severe current profiles may further reduce mud weight due to additional effective
tension requirements to overcome the currents.
5) Feasibility of tensioner upgrade is a function of variable deck load capacity and

substructure space/strength. Such factors are rig specific and not addressed
here.
6) The mooring system is capable of maintaining rig position to within stroke out
offset limits following a 1-line failure scenario.
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Table 7.2 – 13-3/8” Riser System (No Buoyancy)
Mud Weight Capacity per Water Depth for a Given Tensioner Capacity
Mud Weight Capacity (ppg)
Total Installed 8 x 80 kips 10 x 80 12 x 80 kips 8 x 120 14 x 80

Capacity (kips) kips kips kips
640 kips 800 kips 960 kips 960 kips 1120 kips
Water Depth (ft.)
4000 -- 12.4 17.4 14.9 22.5
4500 -- 11.0 15.5 13.2 20.0
5000 -- 9.8 13.9 11.8 17.9
5500 -- 8.8 12.6 10.7 16.3
6000 -- -- 11.4 9.7 149.0
6500 -- -- 10.5 8.9 13.7
7000 -- -- 9.7 -- 12.6
7500 -- -- 9.0 -- 11.8
NOTE: Riser is 13-3/8” OD, 0.48” wall, 68 ppf, 95 ksi
Table 7.3 – 16” Riser System (No Buoyancy)
Mud Weight Capacity per Water Depth for a Given Tensioner Capacity
Total Installed 8 x 80 kips 10 x 80 12 x 80 kips 8 x 120 14 x 80

640 kips 800 kips 960 kips 960 kips 1120 kips
Water Depth (ft.)
4000 -- -- 10.9 9.1 14.6
4500 -- -- 9.5 -- 12.7
5000 -- -- -- -- 11.2
5500 -- -- -- -- 10.0
6000 -- -- -- -- 9.0
6500 -- -- -- -- --
7000 -- -- -- -- --
7500 -- -- -- -- --
NOTE: Riser is 16” OD, 0.667” wall, 109 ppf, 95 ksi
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7.3 PURPOSE-BUILT RISER
An alternative or supplement to adding tensioners is the insertion of a buoyed

purpose-built riser system. To conduct a generalized study, certain assumptions are
made as specified below. The results should be used as a first round feasibility
check, improvements can be achieved for any given system and water depth with a
second round of fine tuning for buoyancy selection.
The purpose-built riser system option is actually a combination of riser (as described
in Section 7.2) deployed below a section of purpose-built buoyant riser. The
shortest possible length of purpose-built riser (ranging from 250 ft to 1600 ft) is
determined using 46” OD buoyancy to provide the maximum amount of uplift while
still allowing the riser to remain sufficiently heavy to survive hung-off in relatively
severe sea states (typical of Brazil and Mediterranean Sea).
Table 7.4 and Table 7.5 represent 13-3/8” and 16” riser systems respectively. Each
table depicts the estimated maximum allowable mud weight for a given installed top
tension, length of buoyed riser and water depth. These tables can also be used as a
guideline for determining the approximate combined top tension and length of
buoyed riser required for a drilling program where the water depth and mud weight
are known.
Here again, this is a general guideline for the specified riser and buoyancy and is to
be used only as an initial feasibility check. A site specific assessment is required to
determine the precise requirements of the drilling program.
The following assumptions were used in the preparation of Tables 7.4 and 7.5:
1) Riser equipped with buoyancy has a minimum wet/dry ratio of 15% to prevent
the riser form experiencing buckling in the hung-off mode. For specific
combinations of vessel, riser, water depth and operating region, this value
can be lowered to decrease the in-water weight and improve mud weight
capacity.
2) Regular density syntactic foam modules rated to 2,000 ft., 23.5 pcf
3) Flanged riser couplings (buoyed purpose-built riser), rated for 5 ksi internal
pressure
4) No Allowance for additional weight associated with tie-back of casing string to

Surface BOP wellhead.
5) No allowance for hang-off of drill string in Surface BOP.
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6) Equipment weights and tensioner efficiencies:

• Surface BOP: 100 kips
• Telescopic Joint: 45 kips
• SIS: 60 kips
• Friction & Fleet Losses: 8%
• Maximum Allowed DTL: 90%
• Minimum Required Overpull: 20 kips
• Riser Weight Factors: Riser Steel = 1.02; Buoyancy = 0.98
7) Calculations for mud weight are done by static API RP 16Q calculation
methods. Severe current profiles may further reduce mud weight due to
additional effective tension requirements to overcome the currents.
8) Feasibility of tensioner upgrade is a function of variable deck load capacity

and substructure space/strength. Such factors are rig specific and not
addressed here.
9) The mooring system is capable of maintaining rig position to within stroke out
offset limits following a 1-line failure scenario.
Table 7.4 – 13-3/8” Purpose-built Buoyant Riser System

Mud Weight Capacity per Water Depth for a Given Combination of Tensioner Capacity and
Required Length of Purpose-built Buoyant Riser
Total Installed 10 x 80 12 x 80 14 x 80
8 x 80 kips 8 x 120 kips
640 kips 800 kips 960 kips 960 kips 1120 kips Length of
Purpose-built
Water Depth Buoyant Riser
(ft.) (ft.)
4000 13.4 18.4 23.5 20.9 28.5 450
4500 13.0 17.5 22.1 19.8 26.6 550
5000 12.2 16.3 20.4 18.3 24.4 600
5500 11.5 15.2 19.0 17.1 22.7 650
6000 11.4 14.8 18.2 16.5 21.7 750
6500 10.9 14.1 17.2 15.7 20.4 800
7000 10.5 13.4 16.4 14.9 19.3 850
7500 10.1 12.8 15.6 14.2 18.3 900
NOTE: Purpose-built riser is 13-3/8” OD, 0.48” wall, 68 ppf, 95 ksi with 5 ksi flange,
50 ft. long
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Table 7.5 – 16” Purpose-built Buoyant Riser System
Mud Weight Capacity per Water Depth for a Given Combination of Tensioner
Capacity and Required Length of Purpose-built Buoyant Riser
Total Installed 8 x 80 10 x 80 12 x 80 8 x 120 14 x 80

Capacity kips kips kips kips kips
(kips)
640 kips 800 kips 960 kips 960 kips 1120 kips Length of
Purpose-built
Water Depth Buoyant Riser
(ft.) (ft.)
4000 10.9 14.6 18.3 16.4 21.9 800
4500 10.7 14.0 17.3 15.6 20.5 950
5000 10.2 13.1 16.1 14.6 19.0 1050
5500 9.7 12.4 15.1 13.8 17.8 1150
6000 9.4 11.8 14.3 13.1 16.8 1250
6500 9.1 11.3 13.6 12.5 15.9 1350
7000 8.8 10.9 13.0 12.0 15.1 1450
7500 --- 10.5 12.5 11.5 14.5 1550
NOTE: Purpose-built riser System is 16” OD, 0.667” wall, 109 ppf, 95 ksi with 5 ksi
flanges, 50 ft. long
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8 DRILLING & OPERATIONAL PRACTICES
8.1 RISER MONITORING
Excessive riser vibration or oscillation can cause premature failure of the riser. The
primary causes are either drilling induced or a result of VIV. In either case, early
detection is essential.
A ROV must be available for use in monitoring the riser and maintained in a
continuous state of readiness for deployment. Drilling the 13-3/8” shoe track and
subsequent intermediate hole section is perhaps the most crucial period. Prior to
drilling out the shoe track, the ROV should observe the riser with the drill string at
rest, in order to determine the natural movement of the riser for the given
environmental conditions.
After drilling of cement commences, the ROV must monitor the riser at the seafloor
and ascend to the surface every 2 hours, monitoring the riser for vibration, leaks or
any other abnormalities. The ROV will then descend back to the sea floor,
monitoring the riser, after which the observation cycle is repeated.
The frequency of the cycle can be adjusted, subject to the extent of riser motions
noted.
After the intermediate casing has been set, the ROV should perform an inspection
dive every 24 hours, preferably while drilling. Here again, the extent of riser motion
will determine the actual frequency of dives.
A moon pool watch is recommended at all times while the riser is deployed. The
designee shall remain present in the moonpool at a safe distance and is responsible
for observing the Surface BOP and visible portion of the upper riser. Any sudden
changes to the motion of the Surface BOP or riser must be immediately reported to
the drill floor and OIM. Close coordination with the ROV Operator is also required,
for periods when the ROV is deployed.
Environmental conditions (wind, wave, swell & current) must be monitored at all
times. An ADCP (acoustic Doppler current profiler) is necessary to accurately
measure surface currents. More benign environments allow for less frequent ROV
inspections. In high surface current locations, the occurrence of VIV must be
monitored in order to identify any fatigue damage that may occur to the riser.
In the event riser oscillations or vibrations are noted, drilling operations are to be
suspended. The OIM and Rig Manager must be notified and the situation assessed.
Certain measures may help mitigate the riser motion, such as reducing the rpm of
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the drill string, increasing the lubricity of the mud or increasing the top tension of the
riser.
8.2 DRILL STRING ROTATION
Rotational energy applied to the drill string inside the riser has been known to excite
the riser in certain conditions. Any excitation of the riser has the potential to cause
fatigue damage to the riser. A number of factors come into play and all must be
considered when determining the maximum rpm of the drill string.
Generally, the use of a mud motor or turbine is recommended in order to limit the
rpm of the drill string. This not only helps reduce the internal wear on the riser, but
reduces drilling induced vibrations. Drilling induced vibrations are created when the
drill string is rotated at a sufficiently high rpm in order to excite the riser to a state of
motion.
Drilling out the 13-3/8” shoe with seawater has been particularly troublesome. As
such, it is recommended to use the drilling fluid for drilling out the shoe in order to
dampen the drill string motions and add lubricity to the inside of the riser. Displacing
to drilling fluid should be accomplished by slowly rotating (20 rpm) and reciprocating
the drill string. This will help prevent additional wear to the lower riser. Whether
drilling the 13-3/8” shoe or the formation below, the rpm of the drill string should be
limited. By monitoring the riser, an optimum rpm can be determined on site.
8.3 RISER WEAR MONITORING & MITIGATION
In the case where riser is utilized for only one well, wear monitoring requirements
are not considered crucial. However, some basic precautions should be observed.
As mentioned in Section 8.2, the rotation of the drill string should be minimized, thus
reducing not only the risk of induced vibrations, but excessive wear on the riser. The
use of a mud motor or turbine facilitates this requirement. Testing of LWD tools shall
be conducted at least 500 ft. below the mudline in order to prevent damage to the
casing. Ditch magnets should also be placed in the mud return line to monitor for
the presence of metal shavings from the riser.
8.4 RISER PRESSURE TESTING
The riser shall be pressure tested to 80% of rated burst immediately after its initial
deployment. This test is conducted prior to drilling out the shoe track in order to
verify the integrity of the riser.
The riser shall be pressure tested after installation of every casing string. The test
will be based on the anticipated leak-off of the deepest exposed shoe and a 70%
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gas, 30% mud evacuation. The test will also serve to reconfirm the integrity of the
riser.
If water, or water base mud, is used for a significant amount of time in any hole
section, the riser should be pressure tested to 80% of rated burst after the next liner
is installed. Prior to conducting the test, the liner top must be isolated by setting a
test packer at least 500 ft. below mudline.
In the event of significant jarring, stuck casing or drill pipe, or in the occurrence of
riser vibration, the riser will be pressure tested to 80% of rated burst after the next
liner is installed or sooner if deemed appropriate. Prior to conducting the test, any
exposed liner top must be isolated by setting a test packer at least 500 ft. below
mudline.
8.5 DRILL STEM TESTING CONSIDERATIONS
The intent of this section is to identify those issues unique to Surface BOP
operations.
Conducting a drill stem test will generally require that the intermediate string of
casing, usually 9-5/8”, is run to surface and suspended in the wellhead below the
Surface BOP. The initial well design must consider the additional weight of this
string of casing in order to ensure sufficient top tensioning capacity is available for
conducting the test. It is beneficial to run the intermediate casing string as a liner
with the top of the liner set +/- 500 ft. below the mudline. Setting the liner top high
helps reduce the additional top tensioning required.
If the test string is equipped with a hanger and suspended in the wellhead below the
Surface BOP, this additional weight must also be considered for the purpose of
determining minimum top tension required.
The use of a permanent packer is recommended. In the event of the drilling unit’s
inability to maintain station, the test string could become pulled from the well. In
such an event, the riser, intermediate casing and test string are likely to fail or
become substantially damaged. Should failure occur, as the drilling unit reaches
maximum designed excursion, the permanent packer will remain in place and seal
the well. The use of an APR (annular pressure regulated) valve also mitigates the
risk associated with a riser failure where the test string remains intact
The use of a retrievable type packer in such an event could result in an uncontrolled
influx if the packer is unseated as the test string is pulled from the well. Industry is
currently developing a type of safety joint incorporating shear pins. After setting and
testing the integrity of the retrievable packer, the safety joint will be “activated”,
thereby only allowing for a predetermined amount of overpull. Should the drilling
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unit lose station keeping ability, the test string will part at the safety joint before
unsetting the packer. The APR also remains intact, ensuring the tubing is shut-in
during a riser failure event.
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9 WELL COMPLETION
The riser size is generally the primary limiting factor in Surface BOP drilling
operations. The ID of the riser presents a restriction for designing well completions.
The base case utilizes 13-3/8”, 68 ppf casing with a 12.415” ID. The 13-5/8”
wellhead is modified to suit the riser and is machined with a special drift of 12-1/4”.
The largest casing hanger that can be set inside this wellhead is 9-5/8”. Available
completion options, making use of the base case system, are depicted below:
9.1 COMPLETION IN WELLHEAD
Figure 9.1.1, 13-3/8” x 9-5/8” x 3-1/2” Tubing
12-1/4" 13-5/8" Profile
13-5/8" Wellhead
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9.2 COMPLETION IN TUBING HANGER SPOOL WITH 12-1/4” SYSTEM BORE
Figure 9.2.1, 13-3/8” x 9-5/8” x 4-1/2” Tubing
13-5/8" Profile
12-1/4"
13-5/8" Wellhead
NOTE: Figure 9.2.1 may also incorporate the use of 5-1/2” tubing, provided the 4-
1/2” tubing hanger and 4-1/2” SSSV are utilized.
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In order to accommodate larger tubing sizes, the deployment of a riser exceeding

14.0” drift is required. This can be accomplished by utilizing 16”, 109 ppf casing as
riser or a purpose-built marine riser. A typical completion system is depicted in
Figure 9.3.1 below.
9.3 COMPLETION IN HORIZONTAL TREE WITH 13-5/8” SYSTEM BORE
Figure 9.3.1, 16” x 10-3/4” x 5-1/2” Tubing
13-5/8" Profile
13-5/8"
13-5/8" Wellhead
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SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM

SECTION 1 ...............................................................................POLICY AND PROCEDURE

SUBSECTION 1 SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS FROM FLOATING

SECTION 2 ....................... SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND COMPONENT SPECIFICATION

SUBSECTION 1 SURFACE BOP STACK

SECTION 3………………………………………………….LOCATION AND PROJECT DATA

SUBSECTION 1 WATER DEPTH AND LOCATION

SECTION 4……………………………………………………………………DESIGN PREMISE

SUBSECTION 1 OPERATING CONDITIONS

SECTION 5………………………………………………………………….….RISER ANALYSIS

SUBSECTION 1 SPACE OUT

SECTION 6………………………………………………………...………MOORING ANALYSIS

SUBSECTION 1 INPUT PARAMETERS

SECTION 7……………………………………………….………………….RISER TENSIONING

SUBSECTION 1 MINIMUM REQUIRED TENSION

SECTION 8……………………………………DRILLING AND OPERATIONAL PRACTICES

SUBSECTION 1 RISER MONITORING

SECTION 9………………………………………………………………….WELL COMPLETION

SUBSECTION 1 COMPLETION IN WELL HEAD

SECTION 10……………………………………………….……….DEPLOYMENT SEQUENCE

SECTION 11……………………………………………..PROJECT ASSESSMENT PROCESS

SECTION 12……………………………………….……HAZARD AND OPERABILITY STUDY

SECTION 13…………………………………...…………………EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Reference: Operations Policy and Procedure Manual, HQS-OPS-PP-01, section 3,

To ensure that Surface BOP projects are:

• Conducted in a safe and efficient manner,

4.1 APPROVAL PROCESS

4.1.1 REGION / DISTRICT SUPPORT STAFF

4.1.2 ENGINEERING SUPPORT TEAM

An Engineering Support Team must be selected on a case-by-case basis, subject to

4.1.3 OPERATIONS SUPPORT

4.1.4 OPERATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE

The Operations Review Committee comprising:

• VP Operations and Technical Services

4.1.5 SEA FLOOR ISOLATION UTILIZATION

4.1.6 SEA FLOOR ISOLATION REQUIREMENT EXEMPTION

In the event a shut-in device is not utilized, additional precautions must be

4.1.7 EXTRAORDINARY OPERATIONS

4.1.8 OPERATORS RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1 OPERATIONS MANAGER (REGION / DISTRICT) (I)

The Region or District sponsoring a Surface BOP project must:

• Issue the appropriate Request for Engineering Assistance (REA), clearly

5.2 ENGINEERING MANAGER (ENGINEERING SUPPORT) (I)

Engineering Support must:

• Process any approved Surface BOP Request for Engineering Assistance in

5.3 HQS SURFACE BOP OPERATIONS MANAGER (OPERATIONS

Operations Support must:

• Ensure that Surface BOP project Analysis and Design is conducted in

5.4 OPERATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE (OPERATIONS SUPPORT) (D)

• V.P. - Engineering and Technical Support(D)

• Surface BOP Operating Manual, HQS-OPS-HB-02

Figure 1.1, Project Assessment Flowchart

OPERATOR TRANSOCEAN INDUSTRY RESULTS

Location & Vessel & Equip. Design Criteria

(4) Mooring, Riser, NO NO

Document Policies & Procedures Rig & Project Specific

Document Rig & Project