Blowout preventer (BOP) testing is a critical-path operation in drilling programs, but for this major onshore operator, it had become a persistent bottleneck. Average test durations exceeded six hours per BOP test, increasing rig downtime and creating schedule pressure.
Beyond timing, the operator’s legacy methods, including circular chart recorders and outdated digital systems, made improving BOP testing efficiency increasingly difficult. These outdated tools often failed to capture complete assurance data, leaving quality issues undetected and complicating BOP testing compliance with API Standard 53.
The operator needed a digital solution to reduce BOP test time, improve BOP testing accuracy, and provide complete traceability across its rig fleet while supporting safer and more reliable well operations.
To address these challenges, the operator implemented IPT Global’s SureTec, our digital pressure testing platform designed to improve BOP testing workflows across its onshore rig fleet. Third-party testing companies used SureTec laptops at the rig site, while our Real-Time Operations Center (RTOC) in Houston provided remote technical support as needed. The platform’s high-resolution, real-time pressure data replaced manual readings and outdated tools to eliminate uncertainty and mitigate human error.
Automated validation and digital reporting streamlined the entire process, producing faster, more accurate, and fully verifiable results.
By digitizing and automating pressure-test workflows with SureTec, the operator achieved a measurable step-change in operational efficiency. The platform replaced manual data capture and outdated systems with precise, real-time pressure data and automated validation tools. This transformation directly translated into faster test cycles, reduced rig downtime, and measurable gains in BOP testing efficiency.
Figure 1. Comparative performance summary showing substantial reductions in test time and
enhanced API Standard 53 Compliance after implementing IPT Global’s SureTec.
IPT Global’s SureTec Impact
This performance represents a best-in-class reduction in test duration, significantly cutting overall BOP testing duration and improving rig uptime.
Figure 2. Single-test performance metrics recorded by IPT Global’s SureTec,
showing how digital time tracking isolates each stage of the BOP test cycle.
The charts below indicate a decreasing trend over a 4-year period for Total Test Time, Line Up Time, and Rig Ops Time as a result of optimized BOP testing and learnings from the implementation of IPT Global’s SureTec. The continued improvement is indicative of the ongoing value and effectiveness of SureTec.
Figure 3. Visualization of improving year-over-year BOP test time trends across the operator’s onshore rig fleet,
highlighting the reliability and optimization achieved through IPT Global’s SureTec’s digital workflows.
Consistent, verifiable test data and analysis is critical for maintaining compliance and preventing quality issues. With SureTec, the operator gained full traceability into every test event, allowing early identification of irregularities and ensuring that every BOP test aligned with API Standard 53 requirements.
IPT Global’s SureTec Impact
The chart below compares average BOP critical-path test times for rigs under state and federal regulations. Despite longer federal hold requirements, SureTec maintained shorter average times and tighter variability, demonstrating consistent performance under all compliance conditions.
Figure 4. Average BOP test durations under state and federal regulatory conditions,
highlighting reduced test time variability and improved consistency with IPT Global’s SureTec.
SureTec’s centralized digital test records allowed the operator to monitor trends, analyze test performance, and make real-time data-driven decisions faster than ever before. Over time, this capability improved its well integrity management program and established a culture of continuous improvement across rigs and over multiple years of operation.
IPT Global’s SureTec Impact
What began as an effort to reduce BOP test time resulted in a transformation of the operator’s BOP testing workflow. With SureTec, the operator not only achieved faster testing but also improved quality control, regulatory compliance, and data visibility, which improved well integrity management across its entire rig fleet.
Today, IPT Global’s SureTec is now setting the benchmark for improving BOP testing efficiency and helping operators reduce BOP test time across both onshore and offshore environments. The platform continues to set the standard for BOP testing accuracy and assurance, enabling operators worldwide to improve efficiency in BOP testing operations.
SureTec delivers the tools and insights needed to achieve faster, more efficient, and
compliant digital BOP testing operations that meet the highest standards of assurance.
IPT is committed to providing best-in-class customer service and support. If you need help choosing a solution that’s right for you, or if you need a hand from a pro in our 24/7 Real-Time Operations Center, we’re ready to serve you.
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