re: Oil Spill and Offshore Fishing (Latest Developments)

This is the interview that the survivor talks about testing the BOPs the day before the accident. I found the interview quite interesting. There are 2 parts.

Survivor Interview

quote:

---

I would love to know how they plan on doing this

---

quote: from page 51:
I just received word that the additional use of an accumulator failed to close the hydraulic ram in the BOP. Apparently the hydraulic rams in the BOP are damaged. The rams are used to shear the riser and cut off flow. Apparently the step that is being taken now sub-sea is to cut the riser pipe and install a "smart flange" with a valve assembly. Once the mechanical flange is attached to the remaining riser the valved can be closed to shut off flow. This is easier said than done. If you've ever seen the movie Hell Fire with John Wayne then you'll have a good idea of how it's done on land. Now add 5,000 feet of water and 5,000 bbls/day flow to contend with and this task is extremely difficult (and slow). Let's just hope they (oceaneering) can get it done
----Gumbopot