2,000,000-lbf Landing-String Developments: Novel Slipless Technology Extends the Deepwater Operating Envelope

Abstract

Summary The initial impetus for developing 2,000,000-lbf landing strings was the fact that failures in the field were being experienced with loads less than equipment ratings. This paper pertains to the technological development of a completely integrated landing system that provides the ability to extend the deepwater drilling and completion envelope. This system comprises an elevator, slipless spider, and landing string—all specifically designed to land heavy-casing strings in deepwater wells and thus overcome the load limitations of conventional equipment. All stages of evolution are analyzed, including research, development, design, verification testing, manufacturing, prooftesting, running, handling, and actual case histories detailing field use. Actual verification-testing loads were over 5,200,000 lbf, and proof-testing loads were 3,000,000 lbf. Unique manufacturing challenges and solutions associated with the production of ultrathick wall landing strings, with 2,000,000 lbf at super-premium-yield ratings1 (90% remaining body wall), a represented in detail.