A ram blowout preventer (ram BOP) is one of the most critical pieces of well control equipment used in oil and gas drilling operations. It is a specialized pressure-control device installed at the wellhead to seal, control, and monitor oil and gas wells to prevent uncontrolled releases — or “blowouts” — of formation fluids.

At CAMTOP Shanghai Machinery Equipment Co., Ltd., we have manufactured and supplied API-certified ram BOPs since 1995. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about ram BOPs: how they work, the types available, key API 16A specifications, and how to choose the right unit for your drilling program.

How Does a Ram BOP Work?

A ram BOP operates by using hydraulically actuated rams that close across the wellbore to create a pressure-tight seal. When a kick is detected, the driller or automated well control system sends a hydraulic signal — typically at 1,200–1,500 PSI — to the BOP control unit, which pushes the rams inward from both sides of the body to seal around the drill pipe or completely close off the well.

The main components of a ram BOP include:

  • Body (Main Housing) — Forged alloy steel pressure-containing structure with top and bottom API flanges
  • Bonnet Assemblies — Side doors that house the ram piston and packing assembly
  • Hydraulic Cylinders (Operators) — Provide the actuating force to open and close rams
  • Ram Assemblies — The actual sealing elements that close against the pipe or wellbore
  • Manual Lock Screws — Mechanical backup to lock rams closed if hydraulics fail
  • Side Outlets — Connection points for choke and kill manifold lines

Types of Rams in a Ram BOP

The WU-series ram BOPs manufactured by CAMTOP can accommodate the following ram types, which are interchangeable within the same body:

1. Pipe Rams

Pipe rams seal around the outside of a specific size of drill pipe, tubing, or casing. CAMTOP pipe rams are available for pipe sizes from 2-3/8″ to 13-3/8″.

2. Variable Bore Rams (VBR)

Variable bore rams can seal on a range of pipe sizes — for example, 3-1/2″ to 7″ OD — without needing to change the ram body. CAMTOP VBRs feature enhanced packing geometry for reliable sealing across the entire size range.

3. Blind Rams

Blind rams completely close off the wellbore when no pipe is present. They are used when the drill string has been pulled out of the well or during emergency shut-in with an empty wellbore.

4. Shear Blind Rams

Shearing blind rams are designed to cut through the drill pipe and then fully seal the wellbore. CAMTOP shear blind rams are engineered to cut standard API drill pipe at rated working pressure.

Key API 16A Specifications for Ram BOPs

All ram BOPs must comply with API Specification 16A. CAMTOP’s entire WU-series is manufactured and API Monogram-licensed under API Spec 16A (3rd Edition).

Parameter Typical Range (WU Series)
Bore Size 7-1/16″ to 26-3/4″
Working Pressure (PSI) 2,000 / 3,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 15,000
Hydraulic Operating Pressure 1,200–1,500 PSI
Temperature Rating -20°C to 121°C (standard); Arctic grades available
Body Material Forged alloy steel (AISI 4130 or equivalent)
End Connections API 6A / API 16A ring joint flanges (BX/RX)

Why Choose CAMTOP Ram BOPs?

  • Manufactured under API Monogram license (API Spec 16A)
  • Available in bore sizes from 7-1/16″ to 26-3/4″
  • Pressure-rated from 2,000 to 15,000 PSI
  • Stocked at warehouses in China, Dubai, USA, Algeria, and Mexico for fast delivery
  • Backed by full factory acceptance testing (FAT) documentation

Ready to specify a Ram BOP for your next drilling project? Contact CAMTOP’s engineering team: sales@cposl.com | +86.21.58432768 | www.camtop-oilfieldtools.com/