An explosion arrestor is a valve system used in drilling equipment to prevent dangerous pressure build-up and oil spills. It was invented in 1922 and can be operated manually or automatically. The system includes various types of valves and a top kill mechanism to regulate pressure. Regular testing is required to ensure safety.
An explosion arrestor is a complex series of valves used in industrial drilling equipment to allow an oil well to shut off if dangerous pressure builds up. The blowout preventer sits on the ocean floor and is capable of shutting off the flow of oil when there is a risk of a rusher. Blast suppressors are designed in different sizes and styles to meet the demands of offshore drilling operations.
The blast arrestor was invented in 1922 with valves created in two styles. Piston valves employ pistons inserted into the drill pipe which are capable of sealing the hole at the oil well. Ring devices use reinforced rubber to perform a similar task, but provide smoother action and require less maintenance. Ring valves also last longer than piston valves because they require less pressure to operate.
The valves on a burst arrester can be opened and closed hydraulically or manually. Automatic systems could work through a remote device to open and close the pipes leading to the well. The remote is usually wired to the surface of the drill. Some blowout preventers use submarine sound to control valves, which is required in some countries.
A series of 10 to 10 valves, each having various opening and closing methods, attach to pipes from the rig to the seabed. Ring and ram valves are both routinely used in a single leak prevention device in the event that one type fails to stem the flow of oil. Another mechanism, called a top kill, uses a choke to allow drilling mud to be pumped into the hole to relieve pressure that cannot be addressed through the blowout preventer.
Drilling mud is actually a fluid used in offshore drilling equipment to regulate the amount of pressure in pipes. If too much pressure builds up, especially if gases are present, it could cause an explosion or an underwater oil spill. The mud can be removed and drilling can resume once the pressure stabilizes.
Gushers are considered rare due to strict testing and maintenance regulations in most countries. A blast suppressor needs frequent testing to make sure it works properly to protect the environment and the drill crew. It is designed as a complex safety device used on all deep water drilling rigs.
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