Proper operation and regular maintenance of a ram blowout preventer are not optional — they are the difference between a functioning well control barrier and a failure that can lead to a blowout. This guide compiles essential operating procedures for CAMTOP WU-series ram BOPs, consistent with API RP 53.

⚠️ Safety First: BOP operations must only be performed by trained and certified well control personnel.

1. Pre-Installation Inspection

  • Verify the BOP model, bore size, and pressure rating match the well design
  • Check the top and bottom flange faces for nicks, corrosion, or ring groove damage
  • Inspect ram assemblies — verify correct ram type is installed
  • Check all bonnet bolts for proper torque per CAMTOP torque specification table
  • Verify manual lock screws are fully retracted
  • Review factory acceptance test (FAT) documentation

2. Hydraulic Closing Procedure

Required hydraulic pressure: 1,200–1,500 PSI from the BOP control unit.

  1. Confirm BOP control unit is pressurized to 1,200–1,500 PSI
  2. Confirm drill pipe position in the bore
  3. Actuate the closing valve on the BOP control panel
  4. Observe ram closure indicator and confirm closing pressure
  5. Verify closure by pressure testing the BOP
  6. Record closing time — must be ≤30 seconds per API RP 53

3. Manual Lock Procedure

  1. Confirm rams are fully closed at operating hydraulic pressure
  2. Turn manual lock hand wheel clockwise until it stops, then tighten to specified torque
  3. Record in rig log that manual locks are engaged

⚠️ Before Opening: Always back out manual lock screws fully before applying hydraulic opening pressure.

4. Function Testing Requirements (API RP 53)

Test Type Frequency Acceptance Criteria
Pre-spud function test Before each well Full closure in ≤30 sec; no leakage
Low-pressure seal test Pre-spud + every 7 days 200–300 PSI; zero pressure drop over 5 min
High-pressure seal test Pre-spud + as required Rated working pressure; zero pressure drop

5. Ram Packing Replacement

Replace when: after any emergency closure, when pressure test shows ≥10 PSI/min leak-down, or after each well program.

  1. Verify well is dead and BOP is fully depressurized
  2. Bleed all hydraulic lines
  3. Unbolt bonnet bolts per CAMTOP torque sequence
  4. Swing bonnet open to expose ram assembly
  5. Remove and disassemble ram assembly; clean all surfaces
  6. Install new CAMTOP OEM packing elements per kit assembly drawing
  7. Reassemble and conduct pressure function test before returning to service

Need CAMTOP WU-Series BOP spare parts or maintenance support? Contact: sales@cposl.com | +86.21.58432768 | www.camtop-oilfieldtools.com/