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Project Number 621
Date of Summary January 5, 2009
Subject High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) Elastomer Evaluation
Performing Activity West Engineering Services, Inc.
Principal Investigator Jeff Sattler 
Contracting Agency Minerals Management Service
Estimated Completion April 2009
Description The objective of this study is to analyze industry’s use and qualification of elastomers in HT drilling applications, assess elastomer failures, review HPHT elastomer compounds under development, and review procedures that verify field compliance of NACE MR-01-75.

WEST will address this technology gap by studying the following items:

  1. Review industry standards for qualification of BOP elastomers for High Temperature (HT) service and address their adequacy. Design verification standards will be scrutinized and confirmed as appropriate.
     

  2. Categorize and discuss HT elastomer limitations and failure modes experienced. Compare and contrast rating methodologies used with industry standards above.
     

  3. Review elastomeric compounds available and under development to determine if suitable elastomers are or will be available for the conditions under study.
     

  4. For compounds under development, work with industry to ensure tests planned adequately validate the suggested technology.
     

  5. Research and report the differences between appropriate applications of HT elastomers on surface stacks vs. subsea stacks.
     

  6. Discuss procedures that verify field compliance to NACE MR-01-75 (ISO 15156). Include frequently accepted compromise testing as well as considerations and limitations for suitability when not in compliance.
Progress Majority of data collection and assessment is complete. Interviews with industry manufacturers and suppliers are in progress to assess current technologies and practices as well as trends for materials research and development.

 

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Last Updated: 01/05/2009, 08:35 AM

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