Development of Geothermal Capable Elastomers for Use in Ram Type Blowout Preventers

Abstract

One of the major limitations in drilling geothermal wells ahs been the elastomer used as sealing elements in ram type blowout preventer (BOP) wellbore cavities. This paper discusses candidate elastomers for use in ram type BOPs used under geothermal conditions. Initial interest in the development of ram BOP elastomers capable of geothermal service was expressed in 1986 by Sandia National Laboratories. Request for Quotation (RFQ) 02-7767 for development of new and improved blowout preventer seals for the geothermal industry was issued in the Fall 1986. Cameron Iron Works USA, Inc. submitted a proposal in response to their RFQ. Unfortunately, this program was not funded. However, in 1988 discussions with ENEL (Italian Electricity Board, National Geothermal Unit) resulted in the establishment of a joint development program to develop and field test high temperature elastomers of ruse in ram type BOPs used in geothermal conditions. in this paper we will discuss progress made to date in the development and testing of geothermal capable elastomers.