The Challenge: Lengthy BOP Testing Times
Blowout preventer (BOP) testing is a critical path operation in drilling programs, but it is often time-consuming. For this major onshore operator, critical path test times stretched beyond 6 hours per BOP test.
Beyond timing, the operator’s legacy methods including circular chart recorders and outdated digital systems made improving BOP testing efficiency difficult. Key assurance data was missing, quality issues went undetected, and maintaining API Standard 53 BOP testing compliance became increasingly challenging.
The operator needed a solution capable of reducing BOP test time, increasing BOP testing efficiency, and providing accurate digital records across its fleet, while supporting safer and more reliable well operations.
The Solution: Using IPT SureTec to Optimize BOP Testing
To address these challenges, the operator implemented IPT’s SureTec, a digital pressure testing platform designed to improve BOP testing across its onshore rig fleet.
- Third-party testing companies used IPT SureTec laptops at the rig site, while IPT’s Real-Time Operations Center (RTOC) in Houston provided remote support when needed.
- The platform delivered clear, high resolution pressure data that exceeded the capabilities of chart recorders and traditional digital tools and eliminated the uncertainty associated with manual readings.
Results: Increased Efficiency, Improved Assurance, and Verified Compliance
Efficiency Gains
- Reduced BOP test time from over 6 hours to approximately 3 hours, a 50% improvement in overall BOP testing efficiency.
- Achieved consistent average test times of:
- ~4 hours 15 minutes in one area.
- Slightly over 5 hours in another, where longer hold times were mandated by regulators.
This performance represents a best-in-class reduction in test duration, significantly cutting overall BOP testing duration and improving rig uptime.
Assurance & Compliance
- SureTec revealed quality issues missed by previous legacy testing methods.
- Verified full API Standard 53 BOP testing compliance for all BOP testing operations.
- Eliminated historical blind spots in testing records, providing traceability.
Enhanced Well Integrity Management
- Increased data visibility enabled faster, more informed decision-making.
- Strengthened well integrity management practices.
- Supported consistent BOP testing performance across a multi-year program.
Onshore Case Study Performance Snapshot
| Before IPT SureTec | After IPT SureTec | |
|---|---|---|
| CP BOP Test Time | > 6 hours | ~ 3 hours (best in class) |
| Average Test Time (State Regulations) | ~ 6 hours | ~ 4 hours |
| Average Test Time (Federal Regulations) | ~ 6 hours | ~ 5 hours (longer hold) |
| Compliance & Assurance | Inconsistent, blind spots | Verified API Standard 53 compliance, enhanced assurance |
Conclusion: Raising the Bar for BOP Testing Efficiency
What began as an effort to reduce BOP test time resulted in a transformation of the operator’s BOP testing workflow. With IPT 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.
IPT 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 benchmark for BOP testing accuracy and assurance, helping operators worldwide increase efficiency in BOP testing operations.
Achieve Faster, Smarter BOP Testing with IPT SureTec
Looking to cut BOP test time and improve testing assurance? IPT SureTec delivers the tools and insights needed to achieve faster, more efficient, and compliant BOP testing operations.
