Baker Hughes has launched a new subsea wellhead technology, the MS-2 Annulus Seal, aimed at reducing the number of rig trips needed for well installations – and saving up to half a million dollars per rig.
The MS-2 Annulus Seal is the latest development in the group’s metal-sealing (MS) technology and builds on the existing MS-SN platform, bringing increased operator confidence in well integrity and extending well life, the company said.
The oilfield services giant launched and exhibited the new equipment at the 2022 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, and it has already been adopted by multiple customers in North and South America.
Baker Hughes says MS-2 can help lower overall wellhead installation and construction costs by requiring fewer rig trips, saving a potential $500,000 per rig.
© Supplied by Baker HughesThe MS-2 can be installed in a single trip, with an integrated lock ring that results in improved rig efficiency. This feature provides immediate lockdown with up to two million pounds-force without the need for a second trip, saving rig time.
The seal integrates with the rest of the MS-800 wellhead system and helps to lower the cost of well construction and intervention, expands intervention options and ensures security and confidence of well integrity in challenging conditions.
The MS-2 seal is PR2F tested to 20,000 psi per Group 4 requirements including a combined load envelope and is further tested to 200 load cycles ensuring life of field reliability. It provides easier access to wells, with no need for supplemental lockdown devices.
The company’s executive vice president for oilfield equipment, Neil Saunders noted: “Through our new MS-2 Annulus Seal, we are helping to transform the subsea market and developing quality technology that delivers long-term value, reliability and efficiencies for subsea customers.”