HWCG adds 15,000 psi capping stack

Offshore staff

HOUSTON -- The Helix Well Containment Group (HWCG) has enhanced its subsea system capabilities with the addition of a 15,000 psig intervention capping stack designed to handle high pressure, deeper wells in the deepwaters of the Gulf of Mexico in the event of a blowout preventer failure.

A unique technical feature of this capping stack is that it allows full access to the wellbore for repair or intervention in the mechanical condition of the well, in addition to allowing the capture and flow back of oil. Engineered by Trendsetter Engineering Inc., the 156,000-pound capping stack features a full opening bore and dual rams.

The new 15,000 psig intervention capping stack is in addition to an existing 10,000 psig capping stack. By this summer, HWCG says it will expand its capabilities to water depths of up to 10,000 ft. Additional system upgrades are being evaluated based on the needs of the consortium members.

05/04/2011