RISER DISCONNECT PACKAGE FOR LOWER MARINE RISER PACKAGE, AND ANNULAR-RELEASE FLEX-JOINT ASSEMBLIES

摘要

A riser disconnect/reconnect system having a disconnection package (RDP) and a modified lower marine riser package (LMRP) are provided for quick disconnection of the marine drilling riser (MDR) from the LMRP to facilitate access to the LMRP or BOP stack. The RDP includes a flex joint and a hydraulically-actuated release connector (RC) with a connecting mandrel that engages a modified LMRP. In an emergency event, the RDP is disconnected from the LMRP allowing access to the BOP stack for intervention. The RDP may be disconnected from the LMRP for recovery of the LMRP or BOP stack to the surface for repair or maintenance without recovering the MDR. The RC joins the flex joint to the uppermost annular blowout preventer in the LMRP. The release connector can be used in a standard or inverted position. Also provided are structural cages with complementary stab plates allowing access to various bypass ports and controls.

主权项

1. A subsea assembly for an offshore well comprising in a functional order:
a flex joint configured on one end to engage a marine drilling riser; a hydraulically-actuated release connector configured to engage a second end of said flex joint, a connector mandrel configured to engage said release connector; and an annular blowout preventer having a top section and a bottom section, wherein said connector mandrel is an integral part of said top section and wherein said annular blowout preventer comprises a bypass port and line; a first structural cage housing said flex joint and said hydraulically-actuated release connector connector, said first cage having a first stab plate; a second structural cage housing said connector mandrel and said annular blowout preventer, said second cage having a second stab plate; wherein said first and said second stab plates are configured to engagingly mate and having complementary access openings to said bypass port and line.