Case Study: First Deployment of Kinetic Blowout Stopper in Brazil

Petrobras and Ventura Offshore deployed the Kinetic Pressure Control Blowout Stopper on the Ventura SSV Victoria and DS Carolina rigs, the first application of this technology on floating rigs in Brasil. The Blowout stopper is a pyro-mechanical, electrically initiated gate valve using kinetic energy to shear anything in the wellbore in milliseconds. Probabilistic risk assessment studies demonstrate significant blowout risk reduction and reduced environmental risks. This is especially important for environmentally sensitive areas. The ability of the blowout stopper to shear anything provides significant operational advantages, including improved operability with dynamically positioned (DP) rigs. These include fewer Emergency Disconnect Sequence (EDS) modes; faster EDS time (improved DP watch circle); reduced wellhead/structural casing load. The technology can allow DP rigs to operate in shallow water. The blowout stopper was installed as a retrofit in existing Blowout Preventer, replacing the casing shear ram. Execution of the project included collaboration with many stakeholders through the various stages of the project: Detailed project planning, including design reviews, HAZOP/HAZID, KMECABOP configuration selection and onsite rig survey to ensure effective installationCoordination with drilling contractor staff for on-site Installation and testingDocumentation and support for system deployment and operations The blowout stopper was installed on each rig in 2023 and has been in continuous operation since then. No actuation was required for well control events. In summary, KBOS has been installed and deployed for the first time on floating rigs in Brazil and has operated up to date, Successful installation and deployment has been achieved through detailed planning and coordination between Kinetic Pressure Control, Petrobras, and Ventura Offshore.