Blowout preventer system and method

A blowout preventer (BOP) for controlling pressure within a wellbore includes a body having a front side and a back side, the front side being opposite the back side. The BOP also includes a door opening extending through the front side. The BOP further includes an operator opening extending through the body, perpendicular to the door opening. The BOP includes an outlet extending from an inner cavity of the body through the back side, the inner cavity being fluidly coupled to both the outlet and the door opening. The BOP also includes a ram passage forming at least a portion of the inner cavity, wherein the ram passage is arranged substantially perpendicular to the door opening.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Disclosure

This disclosure relates in general to oil and gas tools, and in particular, to systems and methods for sealing across lines or pipes.

2. Brief Description of Related Art

In oil and gas production, drilling and recovery may occur in high pressure environments where various tools may be utilized to control wellbore pressures. For example, a blowout preventer (BOP) or the like may be arranged at an entrance to the wellbore. During operations, equipment may pass through the blowout preventer and, if necessary, the blowout preventer may be utilized to seal the wellbore to reduce the likelihood of uncontrolled releases from the wellbore. One component of the blowout preventer may be a shear ram. The shear ram may be a hydraulically driven component that drives cutting edges of two components toward one another to contact and shear and/or across the components between, such as wireless or piping. The shear rams within the BOPs may undergo maintenance operations, and installation and removal may be time consuming and dangerous due to the configuration of many BOPs.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Applicants recognized the problems noted above herein and conceived and developed embodiments of systems and methods, according to the present disclosure, for BOPs.

In an embodiment, a blowout preventer (BOP) for controlling pressure within a wellbore includes a body having a front side and a back side, the front side being opposite the back side. The BOP also includes a door opening extending through the front side. The BOP further includes an operator opening extending through the body, perpendicular to the door opening. The BOP includes an outlet extending from an inner cavity of the body through the back side, the inner cavity being fluidly coupled to both the outlet and the door opening. The BOP also includes a ram passage forming at least a portion of the inner cavity, wherein the ram passage is arranged substantially perpendicular to the door opening.

In another embodiment, a blowout preventer (BOP) for controlling pressure within a wellbore includes a body having a front side and a back side, the body including an internal cavity. The BOP also includes a plurality of door openings extending through the front side, the plurality of door openings providing access to the internal cavity. The BOP further includes a plurality of door assemblies associated with the plurality of door openings, wherein each door assembly of the plurality of door assemblies is arranged at a respective door opening of the plurality of door openings, the door assemblies including a door and a hinge, the door being movable between a first position that blocks access to the door opening and a second position that provides access to the door opening. The BOP also includes an outlet arranged on the back side of the body. The BOP further includes a ram system coupled to the body, the ram system including a plurality of operators coupled to the body and a pair of blocks arranged within the internal cavity.

In an embodiment, a method for installing a ram block into a blowout preventer (BOP) includes positioning a door, arranged proximate an opening to an internal cavity of the BOP, in an open position. The method also includes supporting a ram block via an extension coupled to an inner face of the door, the extension positioned within a slot formed in the ram block. The method further includes translating the ram block toward the internal cavity, via the opening. The method also includes engaging a piston head, within the internal cavity, via the slot.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The foregoing aspects, features and advantages of the present technology will be further appreciated when considered with reference to the following description of preferred embodiments and accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements. In describing the preferred embodiments of the technology illustrated in the appended drawings, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. The present technology, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terms used, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present invention, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Any examples of operating parameters and/or environmental conditions are not exclusive of other parameters/conditions of the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, it should be understood that references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “certain embodiments,” or “other embodiments” of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, reference to terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper”, “lower”, “side”, “front,” “back,” or other terms regarding orientation are made with reference to the illustrated embodiments and are not intended to be limiting or exclude other orientations.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a blowout preventer (BOP) configuration to facilitate loading and unloading of ram blocks while also maintaining structural integrity for high-pressure operating conditions. In various embodiments, the BOP includes a hinged design door opening to facilitate installation and removal of the rams from an internal cavity of the BOP. In embodiments, at least a portion of the door, such as a door extension, may be incorporated into removal procedures. The door may pivot away from a body of the BOP, for example about an axis, to facilitate removal and installation of the ram blocks. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the doors may be structured to accommodate the operating pressure while also reducing an overall weight of the doors.

In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the body of the BOP may include an elongated top seat that extends through at least a portion of the body. The top seat may be arranged perpendicularly with respect to an opening associated with the doors. In certain embodiments, a machining tool having a 90-degree cutting head may be utilized to form at least a portion of the top seat. In embodiments, the machining tool may be installed through the opening and then used to machine at least a portion of the top seat. In operation, a ram block may translate within a passage formed by the machining tool, which includes the top seat, to translate from a disengaged position to an engaged position. In the engaged position, the ram block may be used to cut wireline or tubulars to control pressure within a wellbore.

In various embodiments, the body of the BOP may be machined to provide reinforcing ribs at various locations to accommodate anticipated operating conditions while also removing material in other areas to reduce an overall weight of the BOP. Additionally, various inlet and outlet passages may be arranged at angles to facilitate positioning of tubulars and actuators coupled to the BOP body. For example, in an embodiment, a front side of the BOP may include a strengthening rib arranged between openings associated with the door. Moreover, a back side of the BOP may include an angled face to provide an outlet. The angled face may facilitate coupling of various valves to the BOP while also minimizing interference between the valves or other coupled items.

In certain embodiments, actuators for driving the ram blocks may be coupled to the BOP body. The actuators may be installed utilizing an installation procedure that provides an indication to the operator that the actuators are coupled to the BOP. For example, at least a portion of the actuator may include a window to visually identify one or more nuts, or a portion of a thread, to determine a position of the actuator. In this manner, installation procedures may be more reliable and also simplified for operations.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to BOP systems and methods for machining the body, installing rams, removing rams, and installing actuators for driving the rams. In various embodiments, components of the BOP system may be modular to facilitate different configurations. For example, the BOP system may include two rams, four rams, six rams, or any other configuration. Moreover, the BOP system may include a variety of inlets and outlets. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that various aspects of the present disclosure may be combined or adjusted to address a variety of different operating conditions.

FIG. 1is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a wellbore system100that includes a tool102(which may be part of a tool string) being lowered into a wellbore104formed in a formation106from a surface location108. The illustrated wellbore system100may be referred to as a wireline system because the tool102is conveyed on a cable110, such as an electric wireline. In various embodiments, the electric wireline may transmit electric signals and/or energy from the surface location108into the wellbore, for example to provide operational power for the tool102and/or to transmit data, such as data obtained from sensors arranged on the tool102. In various embodiments, the tool102may be utilized to perform downhole logging operations, such as an imaging tool, a resistivity tool, a nuclear tool, or any other logging tool that may be used in a downhole environment.

The wellbore system100includes a wellhead assembly112, shown at an opening of the wellbore104, to provide pressure control of the wellbore104and allow for passage of equipment into the wellbore104, such as the cable110and the tool102. In this example, the cable110is a wireline being spooled from a service truck114. It should be appreciated that the cable110and wireline system is for illustrative purposes only, and in other embodiments, the tool102may be deployed along pipes or tubing. That is, a rigid or substantially rigid tool string may be deployed. The wellhead assembly112may include a BOP116(e.g., pressure control device) that comprises shear rams that may be utilized to shear components extending through BOP116. For example, in embodiments the cable110may be sheared. However, in embodiments where the tool102is deployed on rigid or semi rigid piping, the piping may be cut, severed, crimped, or otherwise modified by the rams. For example, the rams may shear through the pipe. In other embodiments, the rams may crimp or otherwise bend the pipe such that flow is blocked. As will be described below, in various embodiments the shear rams may be energized to move from a position outside of a bore of the BOP116to a position within the bore of the BOP116. The shear rams may cut the cable110in the illustrated embodiment to thereby facilitate closure of the wellbore104. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the rams may also shear and seal across drill pipe, casing, shear subs or combinations of pipe, control lines, tubing, hoses, and/or wireline. Accordingly, while embodiments herein may be described with respect to shearing the cable110, embodiments may also be utilized with various other downhole deployment methods. It should be appreciated that whileFIG. 1illustrates a land operation that, in various embodiments, systems and methods of the present disclosure may also be utilized in sub-sea operations and the like. Furthermore, as noted above, the illustrated cable110may be replaced with rigid tubing in various embodiments.

FIG. 2is a perspective view of an embodiment of the BOP116, which may include various components to facilitate installation and removal of the rams, among other features. In the illustrated embodiment, the BOP116includes a body portion200having a front side202and a back side204. It should be appreciated that “front” and “back” are described relative to the illustrated embodiment and are not intended to limit the disclosure. For example, the front side202is opposite the back side204.

The front side202includes a plurality of door assemblies206that includes doors208and hinges210. The illustrated embodiment includes four door assemblies206. However, it should be appreciated that other embodiments may include 2 door assemblies206, six door assemblies206, or any other reasonable number. The front side202further includes a rib212that extends from a top214to a bottom216. The bottom216is coupled to flange218, which may facilitate coupling the BOP116to a wellbore. In various embodiments, the doors208may be configured to pivot about an axis, for example via the hinges210, to facilitate access to an interior portion of the body200, for example, through door openings formed in the body200.

As will be described below, the doors208may include one or more reinforcement features220to provide structural stability in response to the operating pressures of the BOP, as well as loads or forces that may be coupled to the doors208, such as the rams. In operation, the doors208may be secured to the body200via apertures222arranged about a face224of the doors208. In the illustrated embodiment, the apertures222are positioned radially outward from the reinforcement feature220, however, it should be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the apertures222may be arranged at different locations. Furthermore, the inclusion of 14 apertures receiving the fasteners226is for illustrative purposes only, as is the arrangement of four apertures222above the reinforcement feature220and three apertures to each side of the reinforcement feature220. It should be appreciated that any number of apertures222and accompanying fasteners226may be utilized to secure the doors208to the body200.

The embodiment ofFIG. 2also includes the rib212extending from the top214to the bottom216. It should be appreciated that, in various embodiments, a rib length228, a rib width230, and/or a rib thickness232may be particularly selected based on operating conditions. For example, the rib length228may not extend from the top214to the bottom216and may extend only along a portion of the body200. Furthermore, in embodiments, the rib thickness232may be adjusted. Additionally, while the rib212is illustrated as being substantially centered between the doors208, it should be appreciated that the rib212may be arranged at different locations. Additionally, the rib212may include both the illustrated vertical component and another horizontal component arranged substantially perpendicular to the vertical component. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may use the rib212in order to provide a strengthening or reinforcement to the front side202of the body200. For example, the rib212may stiffen the body200, which may help accommodate stresses and forces experienced during operation, installation of the rams, or removal of the rams.

The illustrated BOP116further includes an operator234, which may be referred to as a ram operator or an actuator. In various embodiments, the operator234drives linear movement of the ram through the body200of the BOP116. As will be described below, in various embodiments the operator234is coupled to the body200to facilitate operation of the BOP116.

FIG. 3is a perspective view of an embodiment of the body200illustrating the back side204. As described herein, the back side204is opposite the front side202. The illustrated back side204includes a plurality of outlets300, which may be utilized to receive tubulars to regulate choke and/or kill of the BOP116. It should be appreciated the while the illustrated embodiment includes four outlets300, other embodiments may include 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, or any reasonable number of outlets300. The outlets300are arranged on respective platforms302that extend away from the body200. The platforms302may describe reinforced areas that include additional material than the body200, which may provide further structural support. Additionally, the platforms302of the illustrated embodiment include respective faces304that are arranged at an angle306with respect to an axis308of the BOP116. The illustrated angles306point centerline310of the outlets300away from one another, which may facilitate coupling additional components, such as valves and the like, to the BOP116. That is, the angled configuration of the faces304may provide additional space to arrange components coupled to the faces304. As will be appreciated, because the front side202includes the doors208, which may be opened and closed for maintenance or other operations, it may be advantageous to include the outlets300on the back side204, away from the doors208, so that work on the doors208does not interfere with the outlets300.

In various embodiments, the back side204includes a first portion312and a second portion314, which are arranged at an angle316with respect to one another. This configuration may provide additional structural rigidity to the body200, while still reducing the total amount of material utilized to form the BOP116. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first portion312is arranged proximate the operators234and is slanted or angled. The second portion314is arranged between the first portions312and is substantially flush or aligned with the front side202. It should be appreciated that other configurations, such as having the entire back side204being substantially parallel to the front side202, may be utilized.

FIG. 4is a perspective view of the body200, in which various components have been removed for clarity, such as the door assemblies206and operators234. The illustrated body200differs from the views ofFIGS. 2 and 3at least because only two door assemblies206would be utilized, rather than four, and only two operators234would be utilized. As noted above, a variety of different configurations may be utilized with embodiments of the present disclosure.

The illustrated embodiments include door openings400extending through the front side202. The door openings400including rounded edges402, which may facilitate with stress transfer, but it should be appreciated that the edges may be substantially 90 degrees or any other angle or finish that may be machined into the front face202. In various embodiments, the front face202is machined or otherwise worked to provide the door openings400, among other features. However, it should be appreciated that the body200may also be cast or formed to include the door openings400and/or other features.

Further illustrated inFIG. 4is an operator opening404, which may receive a cylinder or piston to facilitate translating movement of the rams via the operators234. It should be appreciate that, much like the door openings400, the operator opening404may be forged, machined, and/or cast into the body200.

The illustrated body200includes an internal cavity406, which as will be described below, may include a top seat that receives the ram and enables movement of the ram within the cavity406. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that other features may be included, but have been eliminated for clarity. For example, various apertures may be formed in the body200to facilitate coupling of various features, such as the doors208, hinges210, operator234, and other elements. Furthermore, the rib212has been removed for clarity, but may be positioned between the door openings400.

FIG. 5is a sectional perspective view of an embodiment of the body200, including the door opening400and a ram passage500within the internal cavity406. In various embodiments, a top seat502may form at least a portion of the internal cavity406and/or the ram passage500. The illustrated ram passage500is substantially rounded and may have an oval or elliptical shape. It should be appreciated that the ram passage500may be shaped to conform to at least a portion of the ram. As a result, a rounded edge504may have various features or diameter adjustments to conform to the ram.

Further illustrated inFIG. 5is an outlet passage506, which may couple to the outlet300on the back side204. The outlet passage506in the illustrated embodiment is arranged longitudinally lower than the ram passage500. That is, the outlet passage506is closer to the bottom216than the ram passage500. In various embodiments, as will be described below, the outlet passage506may be arranged at an angle with respect to the axis308. While not illustrated inFIG. 5, it should be appreciated that a variety of different surface finishes, coatings, and the like may be applied to the ram passage500, for example along the rounded edge504. Furthermore, a dimension of the ram passage500may be particularly selected based on expected operating conditions and the operator234selected for use.

FIG. 6is a top plan view of an embodiment of the body200. The internal cavity406, including the ram passage500, is illustrated within the walls600of the body200. The illustrated embodiment includes the door openings400extending through the front side202. The outlets300have been removed for clarity. In various embodiments, dimensions of the internal cavity406may be adjusted based on expected operating conditions of the BOP116. For example, higher pressures may include thicker walls600and the like.

FIGS. 7A and 7Binclude views of a cutting tool700, which may be utilized to form at least a portion of the body200, such as the ram passage500and/or the top seat502. For example, in various embodiments, features of the body200may be cast and then additional segments may be formed using the cutting tool700, as well as other tools.FIG. 7Ais a front view of the cutting tool700, including a cutting head702.FIG. 7Bis a side view of the cutting tool700. As illustrated, the cutting head702may be arranged at an angle704with respect to a tool body706. For example, the cutting tool700may be referred to as a 90-degree cutting tool because an axis708of the cutting head702is arranged at the angle704with respect to a tool body axis710. In operation, a diameter712of the cutting head702may include a blade or cutting features to remove material from the body200in response to rotational movement about the axis708. The diameter712may be adjusted, in various embodiments, to change the size of the top seat500. For example, different cutting heads702may be coupled to the tool body706.

Machining operations may include inserting the cutting tool700into the door openings400to form at least a portion of the top seat502within the internal cavity406. This 90-degree cutting operation may present challenges, since typical top seat machining processes are performed substantially parallel to the opening that receives the cutting tool700. As a result, features of the cutting tool700may be particularly selected to accommodate vibration, deflection, and the like. For example, a body width714, a body height716, and a body length718may be selected to absorb vibration and reduce deflection. As a result, the cutting tool700may be inserted into the door openings400and then moved along an axis of the operator opening404to machine the top seat500.

FIG. 8is a top plan view of an embodiment of the body200that includes the cutting tool700extending into the internal cavity406via the door opening400. As shown, the axis708of the cutting head702is substantially parallel to an operator opening axis800, while the tool body axis710is substantially perpendicular to the operator opening axis800. The cutting tool700may be installed through the door opening400and then moved along the operator opening axis800to form at least a portion of the top seat502and/or the ram passage500. As noted above, this machining method differs from traditional techniques in that the tool body axis710is substantially perpendicular to the operator opening axis800, which generates challenges associated with the deflection and vibration of the cutting tool700during operation. However, embodiments of the present disclosure include particularly selected component sizes and materials to absorb vibration and/or deflections. In various embodiments, a cutting head distance802is sufficient to enable movement along the operator opening axis800for a door opening width804to form at least a portion of the ram passage500and/or the top seat502and then to allow the rest of the ram passage500and/or top seat502formation through the other door opening400. In other words, a portion is formed through the first door opening400A and a second portion through the second door opening400B.

FIG. 9is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the cutting tool700extending into the internal cavity406to form at least a portion of the ram passage500. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the rounded edge504conforms to the diameter712of the cutting head702, thereby facilitating formation of the top seat502. It should be appreciated that, in various embodiments, the ram passage500may include a top portion900and a bottom portion902, which may each have a different top radial distance904and bottom radial distance906. However, in other embodiments, the top portion900may be substantially equal to the bottom portion902. Furthermore, in embodiments, a portion may be cast with the other portion may be machined. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the machining and/or casting method may be particularly selected to minimize machining operations and to reduce costs. In operation, the cutting tool700moves along the operator opening axis800to from at least a portion of the rounded edge504of the top seat502.

FIG. 10is a perspective view of an embodiment of the BOP116including the door assembly206arranged on the front side202. In the illustrated embodiment, the door assembly206includes the door208and the hinges210, which allow the door208to move between the illustrated closed position and an open position (FIG. 11). The illustrated door208is arranged substantially flush on the front side202, thereby forming a seal at the door opening400. In various embodiments, the apertures222on the door face224enable fasteners to couple the door208to the front side202. As noted above, it should be appreciated that there may be a different number of apertures222and they may be arranged in different locations on the face224. Furthermore, in embodiments, a different locking mechanism, such as a latch with a pad lock or the like, may be utilized in place of or in addition to the apertures222.

In operation, the hinges210support the door208and may be particularly selected to receive the weight of the door208, and in embodiments, other components such as the rams that may apply forces to the door208, as will be described in detail below. The hinges210include a hinge body1000and a hinge coupling1002. The hinge body1000is coupled to the hinge coupling1002at an interface1004, which may include a rotational axis1006for the door208. In various embodiments, a pin or the like may be arranged at the interface1004to enable the door to rotate bout the axis1006. In various embodiments, the hinge coupling1002is secured to the door208, for example, via couplings or the like. The hinge body1000may also be secured to the body200via couplings or the like, which have been removed in the illustrated embodiment for clarity.

FIG. 11is a perspective view of the door208arranged in the open position. As opposed to the view ofFIG. 10, the door208inFIG. 11has been rotated about the rotational axis1006to move the door208away from the front side202of the body200. For example, the fasteners may be removed from the apertures222to enable the door208to move away from the200. As noted above, the hinges210support the weight of the door208and any associated components. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, hinge bodies1000and hinge couplings1002are arranged at both a top and bottom of the door208. It should be appreciated that while the illustrated open position arranges the door208at substantially a 90 degree angle with the front side202, in other embodiments the angle may be greater or less than 90 degrees.

FIG. 12is a top plan view of an embodiment of the BOP116illustrating the door assemblies206having the doors208in a closed position1200, an open position1202(phantom lines), and a maintenance position1204. In various embodiments, a rotation mechanism1206may be utilized to facilitate rotation of the doors208and/or to maintain the doors208in a particular position.

The illustrated embodiment includes the front side202with the rib212positioned between the door assemblies206. On the opposite side, the back side204is positioned with the platforms302. In various embodiments, the movement of the doors208may provide a stress to the body200. However, as described above, various features of the BOP116, such as the rib212, first portion312, second portion314, or the like may be utilized to reduce stresses to enable operation of the BOP116.

In the illustrated embodiment, the door208is arranged in the closed position1200, and as a result, the door208is positioned against the front side202. The illustrated embodiment includes fasteners1208to secure the door208to the front side202. In the illustrated embodiment, the door208is arranged proximate the rib212when in the closed position1200. Further illustrated is movement of the door208to the open position1202. In the illustrated embodiment, the door208extends away from the front side202such that the hinge coupling1002is substantially perpendicular to the front side202. In various embodiments, the hinge210enables rotation of the door208about the axis1006to transition between the closed position1200and the open position. Further illustrated is the maintenance position1204, where the door208is substantially clear of the front side202to provide access the front side202and/or the internal cavity406. In the illustrated maintenance position1204, the hinge coupling1002is substantially parallel to the front side202, much like in the closed position1200. However, as shown, the door208transitions away from the front side202such that the door2008is substantially 180 degrees away from the front side202.

In various embodiments, the hinge210includes the rotation mechanism1206, which may limit rotation of the door208and/or maintain a desired position of the door208. The rotation mechanism1206is illustrated with a body region1208, which is substantially curved. The body region1208includes an opening1210at a first end1212and an opening1214at a second end1216. The openings1210,1214may receive a pin, which locks the door208in position. In the illustrated embodiment, the pin may extend through the opening1210, when the door208is in the open position1202, to secure the door208in the open position. Similarly, the pin may extend through opening1214when the door is in the maintenance position1204to secure the door208in the maintenance position. That is, as the door208rotates from the closed position1200to the open position1202, an opening in the hinge coupling1002may align with the opening1210to receive the pin. In this manner, the door208may be secured at various different locations, which may simplify operations because operators may not be worried about moving the door208between different positions.

FIG. 13is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a portion of the door assembly206, including the door208and the hinge coupling1002. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge coupling1002A is arranged at a top1300of the door208and the hinge coupling1002B is arranged at a bottom1302of the door208. As a result, forces may be translated from the door to the hinge coupling1002, which may further translate the forces to the hinge210and the body200. The illustrated hinge couplings1002are coupled to the door208along an outer perimeter1304via fasteners1306. The illustrated door208includes receptacles1308to receive the fasteners1306. In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacles1308are arranged to enable modularity of the door208. In other words, the receptacles1308are arranged to receive the hinge coupling1002at either a first side1310or a second side1312. In this manner, fewer different parts may be utilized for the BOP116.

The illustrated embodiment includes the apertures222extending through the door208. An inner face1314includes an extension1316that extends along a door axis1318away from the inner face1314. The illustrated extension1316may provide further structural rigidity, for example, due to the ram extending from the door208. It should be appreciated that an area of the extension1316may be particularly selected based on dimensions of the door208, among other factors. The extension1316includes a recess1320that receives a T-bar1322. For example, a bottom end1324of the T-bar1322, opposite the top end1326, may be positioned within the recess1320. The T-bar1322may be coupled to the extension1316via fasteners1328. As a result, the door208may further include the T-bar1322on the inner face1314.

In various embodiments, the T-bar1322extends a bar length1330along the door axis1318. The T-bar1322also includes a bar width1332and a first bar height1334and a second bar height1336. In the illustrated embodiment, the second bar height1336is greater than the first bar height1334. In operation, the T-bar1322may be utilized to receive or position the rams prior to installation within the inner cavity406.

The embodiment of the door208further includes a seal groove1338arranged about the extension1316. In the illustrated embodiments, the apertures222are arranged between the seal groove1338and the edges of the door208. The position of the seal groove1338may be particularly selected based on a size of the apertures222and/or the extension1316. The location of the seal groove1338provides a sufficient squeeze of a seal while also being positioned independent of and out of the way of the apertures222.

FIG. 14is a side view of an embodiment of the door assembly206including the door208. The illustrated door208is coupled to the hinges210, for example via the hinge coupling1002. The door208is arranged to rotate about the axis1006. In various embodiments, rotation is at least partially regulated by the rotation mechanism1206, which may include a first opening1214that receives a pin1400to lock the door208into position.

The illustrated door208includes a stiffener1402on an exterior face1404. In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffener1402extends laterally away from the exterior face1404along the door axis1318. Further illustrated is the T-bar1322coupled to the extension1316via the fastener1328. As illustrated, the T-bar1322includes the bar length1330and the first bar height1334and the second bar height1336. As will be described, the T-bar1322may be utilized to position and retrieve the block from the internal cavity406.

FIG. 15is a side view of an embodiment of the T-bar1322arranged proximate the door opening400. The T-bar1322is coupled to the extension1316of the door208. As illustrated, the bar length1330enables at least a portion of the T-bar1322to extend beyond the door opening400when the door208is in the open position. In various embodiments, the T-bar1322is substantially aligned with a piston associated with the operator234. That is, a height from the door opening1500may be substantially equal between the T-bar1322and the piston.

FIG. 16is a side view of an embodiment of a ram block1600positioned on the T-bar1322proximate the door opening400. In the illustrated embodiment, the ram block1600includes a slot1602that receives the top end1326of the T-bar1322. As a result, weight from the ram block1600may be distributed to the door208. Accordingly, it may be easier to install the ram block1600without additional equipment, such as a crane. Installation is therefore cheaper and easier for operations personnel. In various embodiments, a tool or the like may engage either the slot1602or other feature on the ram block1600in order to facilitate installation and removal. As shown, the T-bar1322substantially aligns the ram block1600with the door opening400to enable movement of the ram block1600into the internal cavity406.

FIG. 17is a side view of an embodiment of the ram block1600arranged within the internal cavity406of the body200. In the illustrated embodiment, the ram block1600is transitioned along the T-bar1322and is deposited into the internal cavity406, for example at an end of a piston associated with the operator234. For example, the ram block1600may be driven into the internal cavity406using the T-bar1322as a guide and/or support, thereby reducing the force utilized to install the ram block1600. Moreover, in various embodiments, additional tools and the like may be utilized for installation of the ram block1600.

FIG. 18is a side view of an embodiment of the ram block1600full installed within the internal cavity and coupled to a piston1800. As shown, there is no longer a connection between the T-bar1322and the slot1602, compared toFIGS. 16 and 17. As a result, the ram block1600may be supported by the piston1800, which may also align with the slot1602. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the piston1800may be utilized to drive axial movement of the ram block1600within the ram passage500.

FIGS. 19-22are top views of an installation process of the ram block1600utilizing the door208as a support for the installation. In the illustrated embodiment, the ram block1600is transitioned into the internal cavity406using the door208as a support, specifically, the T-bar1322is utilized to guide the ram block1600into the internal cavity406and into contact with a head1900of the piston1800. The embodiment ofFIG. 19illustrates the ram block1600outside of the internal cavity406and supported by the door208. In the illustrated embodiment, the T-bar1322is positioned within the slot1602.FIG. 20illustrates the ram block1600being slid toward the internal cavity406via the door opening400. The ram block1600continues to be supported by the door208, and in certain embodiments, at least a portion of the force from the weight of the ram block1600may be transferred the body200. That is, the ram block1600may contact the body200and be supported by both the door208and the body200.

FIG. 21illustrates the ram block1600arranged within the internal cavity406and no longer coupled to the door208. The ram block1600engages the piston head1900, for example, via the slot1602. The ram block1600may be supported by the body200.FIG. 22illustrates the ram block1600arranged within the ram passage500. The ram block1600is arranged on the piston1800via the piston head1900. In embodiments, one or more tools or fasteners may be utilized to couple the ram block1600to the piston head to maintain alignment. However, in other embodiments, the arrangement within the slot1602and weight of the ram block1600may be sufficient to keep the ram block1600in position.

FIGS. 23-27illustrate side views of the installation of the ram block1600. As described above, in various embodiments, the ram block1600may be translated from a position outside of the body to the ram passage500.FIG. 23illustrates the ram block1600arranged on the T-bar1322and supported by the door208. As noted above, the height1500of the T-bar1322may be substantially aligned with the piston1800to facilitate installation of the ram block1600. However, in other embodiments, a stepped entry2300may be formed, wherein a first location2302is at a different elevation than a second location2304. The second location2304may correspond to the ram passage500, at least in part, and facilitate installation by providing reduced friction forces as the ram block1600is coupled to the piston head1900.

FIG. 24illustrates the ram block1600being moved toward the internal cavity406along the T-bar1322. As the ram block1600contacts the body200, such as at the first portion2302, at least a portion of the force of the ram block1600is transmitted to the body200. Installation within the internal cavity406generates a friction force as the ram block1600is driven into position.FIG. 25illustrates movement of the ram block1600into the internal cavity406. The different in heights between the first portion2302and the second portion2304is illustrated as a portion of the ram block1600hangs over the second portion2304without contacting the second portion2304. In embodiments, the ram block1600is still coupled to the door208, via the T-bar1322, in the illustrated embodiment. InFIG. 26, the ram block1600is no longer connected to the door208. The piston head1900is illustrated as engaging the slot1602.FIG. 27illustrates the ram block1600arranged within the ram passage500and coupled to the piston head1900. As described above, in various embodiments the ram block1600may be further secured to the piston head1900. In operation, the door208may be closed after installation to enable operation of the BOP116.

FIG. 28is a side elevational view of an embodiment of the operator234arranged on a lifting mechanism2800, which in the illustrated embodiment is a strap. In operation, the operator234, which may be a hydraulic actuator that drives the piston1800, may be aligned with the operator opening404. In embodiments, the operator234may be a single or tandem operator. A frame2802of the operator may be secured to the body200, for example via fasteners, as illustrated above.

FIG. 29is a side elevational view of an embodiment of the operator234including an alignment pin2900along with coupling confirmation system2902. In various embodiments, the alignment pin2900may be utilized to align the operator234to the body200. For example, the alignment pin2900may be an extension that mates with an opening formed in the body200to indicate a preferred or predetermined alignment of the operator234with respect to the body.

The illustrated coupling confirmation system2902includes a rod2904extending along a length2906of the operator. The rod2904may include threaded portions and, in various embodiments, one or more mating features for coupling to an installation tool, such as a wrench or driver. The rod2904includes an indicator2908, arranged proximate an area that will be secured to the body200. The indicator2908includes a nut2910in the illustrated embodiment, but it should be appreciated that other indicators may be utilized. In operation, a relative position of the nut2910may provide a visual indication that the rod2904has been attached to the body200, thereby securing the operator234to the body200.

FIGS. 30A and 30Bare schematic side views illustrating operation of the coupling confirmation system2902. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 30A, the nut2010is visible through an indicator slot3000formed in the operator frame2902. The relative position of the nut2010within the indicator slot3000provides a visual indication of whether or not the rod2904has been secured to the body200. For example, the position illustrated inFIG. 30Aillustrates that the rod2904is not assembled into the body200, while the position illustrated inFIG. 30Billustrates the rod2904is assembled into the body200. That is, the nut2010backs off as the rod2904is installed. Accordingly, operators may quickly and effectively identify operations in the field to determine whether the operators234are operational.

FIG. 31is a top plan view of an embodiment of the BOP116, which may share one or more features with the BOP illustrated herein, such as inFIG. 2. The illustrated BOP116includes the body200having the front side202and the back side204. As noted above, the terms “front” and “back” are used for illustrative purposes only and that, in various embodiments, different configurations may be deemed the front or back of the body200. In this example, door assemblies206are arranged on both the front and back sides202,204to enable respective doors208to rotate about hinges210to provide access to an interior chamber of the body200, as described in detail above.

Further illustrated are the operators234coupled to the body200. As described above, the operators234are utilized to transition the ram blocks1600between inactive and active positions. The illustrated operators234are arranged on planar ends3100of the body200, similar to the configuration shown, by way of example, inFIG. 3. Movement of the ram blocks1600, as a result, may be substantially perpendicular to the planar ends3100.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the front and back sides202,204include the face224, which may be referred to as a planar face3102in various embodiments. Additionally, each of the front and back sides202,204include an angled face3104, which may be substantially similar to the angled faces304illustrated inFIG. 3, in that the angled faces3104facilitate coupling of the outlines300such that the outlet centerlines310are arranged at respective angles3106(e.g., the angle306) from a first plane3108of the body200. Accordingly, as opposed to the configurations shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the respective door assemblies206may be arranged on both the front and back sides202,204of the body200. In various embodiments, the illustrated embodiment enables maintenance operations on both sides of the body200with a reduced likelihood of interference between operations personnel. That is, operations personnel may be separated by a larger distance, thereby reducing the likelihood of interference or other operational impairments. Furthermore, the arrangement of the outlets300may provide sufficient clearance for the door assemblies206to facilitate rotational movement of the doors208to provide access to interior portions of the body200, as described above.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may position the outlets300directly onto the body200without the addition of the platforms302illustrated inFIG. 3. However, it should be appreciated that the platforms may also be incorporated into the configuration shown inFIG. 31and that, in various embodiments, the platforms may provide additional material to further strengthen or enhance operational capacity of the BOP116. In this configuration, the outlets300extend an axial distance3110that is farther away from the body200(e.g., a midpoint of the body200) than a second axial distance3112of the doors208(e.g., farther than the exterior face1404and/or the stiffener1402). It should be appreciated that this may enable operators to make connections to the outlets300that are clear of a movement plane of the doors208, which further facilitates multiple crews performing simultaneous maintenance operation on the BOP116.

In the illustrated embodiment, as noted above, the body200includes the planar faces3102and the angled faces3104. The illustrated angled face3104is arranged at a face angle3114with respect to the first plane3108. In contrast, the planar face3102is arranged at approximately 90 degrees from the first plane3108. In the illustrated embodiment, the position of the respective angled faces3104and planar faces3102are offset about the first plane3108and about a second plane3116. That is, each respective side of the planes3108,3116includes one of the planar faces3102and one of the angled faces3104. It should be appreciated that this configuration is for illustrative purposes, and in other embodiments, both of the planar faces3102may be on a side of the first plane3108and/or both of the planar faces3102may be on a side of the second plane3116, as illustrated inFIG. 3.

In this embodiment, the door assembly206is illustrating with a tether3118that couples the pin1400to the hinge210. As a result, the likelihood of losing or otherwise misplacing the pin may be reduced. The tether3118may be flexible, such as an elastomer, or may be a rigid or semi-rigid component. It should be appreciated that the tether3118is provided as one example for maintaining a close relationship between the pin1400and the hinge210, but other embodiments may using different methods, such as sliding features (e.g., where the pin1400slides between different positions, a rigidly fastened spring loaded pin, multiple pins that block entry of adjacent pins, or the like).

FIG. 32is front elevational view of an embodiment of the BOP116illustrating the door assemblies206and the outlets300arranged on the front side202of the body200. As noted above, various features ofFIG. 32have already been described, such as inFIGS. 2-27, and will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, a first side3200(e.g., first half, first portion) includes the door assemblies206arranged on the planar face3102and a second side3202includes the outlets300arranged on the angled face3104. As noted above, this configuration is for illustrative purposes and, in various embodiments, the door assemblies206may be arranged on the angled face3104. In this embodiment, a door vertical height3204is greater than an outlet vertical height3206for each door assembly206and outlet300pair. For example, the door assembly206A and the outlet300A may be referred to as a pair and the door assembly206B and the outlet300B may be referred to as a pair. The door vertical height3204refers to a distance from the flange218to a door midpoint3208, which may be substantially aligned with the axis800(FIG. 8). The outlet vertical height3206refers to a distance from the flange218to the centerline310. Accordingly, each of the door assemblies206(e.g., door midpoints3208) are arranged higher than the outlets300for each respective pair. This configuration may provide additional room for the inclusion of equipment and the like. However, it should be appreciated that different configurations may include door vertical heights3204that are equal to or less than the outlet vertical heights3206. Moreover, respective vertical heights3204,3206may not be equal, with one pair having the heights3204,3206being different while another may have the heights3204,3206be different. Accordingly, various configurations may be incorporated within the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 32, the doors208may be substantially centered with respect to the planar face3102, while the outlets300(e.g., the outlet centerline310) are closer to the first plane3108than to the planar ends3100. This configuration may be particularly selected based on the internal geometry of the body200and other operational factors. For example, there may be two outlets per cavity in this configuration. It should be appreciated that other configurations may include outlets300that are substantially centered on the angled face310and/or closer to the planar ends3100. Furthermore, as noted above, the outlets300may be in different positions in different embodiments and may not be aligned as illustrated inFIG. 32.