Blowout preventer

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Mackenzie Delta, Canada - A blowout preventer (BOP) sits protected from the harsh cold of the arctic. A BOP is a large valve that encases an oil well at surface. During drilling, the valve may be closed if overpressure from an oil reservoir causes formation fluids such as oil and natural gas to back up within the wellbore and threaten the rig. By closing this valve (usually operated remotely via hydraulic actuators), the drilling crew can prevent explosive pressure release, thus regaining control of the reservoir pressure. Once this is accomplished, often the drilling mud density within the hole can be increased until enough fluid pressure is being placed on the reservoir, and the BOP can be opened for drilling to resume. The invention and use of BOPs resulted in the end of oil gushers, which were dangerous and costly.