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MARCH 2011
Copyright © 2011
American Bureau of Shipping
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
Foreword
Foreword
This Guide has been revised to assist the industry with Classification of Drilling Systems. This revision
supersedes the 2006 ABS Guide for the Certification of Drilling Systems. This Guide becomes effective as
of 1 March 2011.
The Guide describes criteria to be used for drilling systems, which are to be approved by the American
Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and it is built upon requirements of the recognized codes and standards, as
referenced in this Guide. The Guide contains the following nine (9) main sections and five (5) appendices:
Section 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 2 Design of Drilling Systems
Section 3 Drilling Systems
Section 4 Scope of Drilling System and Equipment Approval
Section 5 Drilling System Piping
Section 6 Materials for Drilling Systems and Equipment
Section 7 Welding and Nondestructive Examination
Section 8 Surveys at Vendor’s Plant During Installation and Commissioning
Section 9 Surveys After Construction and Maintenance of Class
Appendix 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification of Drilling Systems
Appendix 2 Sample Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance
Appendix 3 Sample of Independent Review Certificate
Appendix 4 Sample of Certificate of Conformity
Appendix 5 Sample of Maintenance Release Note
This Guide is to be used in conjunction with other applicable ABS Rules and Guides, codes and standard
as referenced therein, and applicable national regulations.
ABS Classification continues to provide the offshore industry with a pathway toward agreement by
Regulatory Authorities. However, the Owner/Operator’s specific request for compliance with applicable
requirements of Flag or Coastal State Authorities affecting the drilling systems is to be filed as an
addendum to the Request for Classification.
The following major changes to the Guide were incorporated into the March 2011 CDS Guide:
General
• The scope has been revised to “ABS Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems” from “ABS
Guide for the Certification of Drilling Systems”
Section 1
• “Scope and Condition of Classification” section is modified to be in the same format and layout as
ABS Rules Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).
• The “Scope” of Section 1 was expanded to cover all applicable drilling systems, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components.
• “Definitions” and “Acronyms and Abbreviations” sections relating to drilling system terminology
were added.
Section 2
• The “Design Plans and Data” have been significantly expanded in order to clearly identify the
engineering submittal requirements for drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components.
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification............................................... 1
1 Classification.......................................................................................1
1.1 Process ........................................................................................... 1
1.3 Certificates and Reports .................................................................. 1
1.5 Representations as to Classification ............................................... 2
1.7 Scope of Classification .................................................................... 2
3 Suspension and Cancellation of Class ...............................................3
3.1 Termination of Classification and Notice of Surveys ....................... 3
3.3 Suspension of Class........................................................................ 3
3.5 Lifting of Suspension ....................................................................... 3
3.7 Cancellation of Class....................................................................... 4
5 Class Notation.....................................................................................4
5.1 ABS Class Notation ......................................................................... 4
5.3 Systems Not Built Under Survey ..................................................... 4
7 Rules for Classification .......................................................................4
7.1 Applications ..................................................................................... 4
7.3 Effective Date of Change of Requirement ....................................... 5
7.5 Scope .............................................................................................. 5
7.7 Alternatives...................................................................................... 6
9 Other Regulations ...............................................................................8
9.1 International and Other Regulations................................................ 8
9.3 Governmental Regulations .............................................................. 8
11 IACS Audit ..........................................................................................8
13 Submission of Plans ...........................................................................8
15 Conditions for Survey After Construction............................................9
15.1 Damage, Failure and Repair ........................................................... 9
15.3 Notification and Availability for Survey........................................... 10
17 Units ..................................................................................................10
19 Fees ..................................................................................................10
21 Disagreement....................................................................................10
21.1 Rules and Guides.......................................................................... 10
21.3 Surveyor ........................................................................................ 10
23 Limitation of Liability..........................................................................11
25 References........................................................................................11
27 Definitions .........................................................................................12
29 Acronyms and Abbreviations ............................................................20
1 Classification
The requirements for conditions of Classification for entire drilling units and offshore structures are contained
in the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1). Additional
requirements specific to a drilling system, its subsystems, equipment or components are contained in this Guide.
1.1 Process
The term Classification, as used herein, indicates that drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or
components have been designed, constructed, installed, and surveyed in compliance with this Guide, in
conjunction with other applicable ABS Rules and Guides, codes and standards as referenced therein, and
applicable national regulations. The continuance of Classification is dependent on the fulfillment of
requirements for surveys after construction.
The Classification process consists of:
a) The development of Rules, Guides, standards and other criteria for the design, construction, installation
and maintenance of drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components;
b) The review of the design and survey during and after construction to verify compliance with such
Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria;
c) The assignment and registration of Class when such compliance has been verified, and;
d) The issuance of a renewable Classification certificate, with annual endorsements, valid for five (5)
years.
The Rules, Guides and standards are, in general, developed by the International Association of Classification
Societies and ABS staff and passed upon by committees made up of naval architects, ocean and marine
engineers, shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers, process engineers and by other technical, operating and
scientific personnel associated with the worldwide maritime industry. Theoretical research and development,
established engineering disciplines, as well as satisfactory service experience are utilized in their development
and promulgation. ABS and its committees can act only upon such theoretical and practical considerations
in developing Rules and standards.
ABS Surveyors apply normally accepted examination and testing standards to those items specified for each
survey by the Rules; construction/manufacturing procedures, safety procedures and construction supervision
remain the responsibility of the shipyard, the offshore unit or structures repairer, manufacturer, Owner/Operator
or other client.
For Classification, the drilling system, subsystems, equipment, and/or components are to comply with the
requirements of this Guide, in conjunction with all other applicable ABS Rules and Guides, codes and
standards as referenced therein.
ABS will release certain information to the offshore unit or structure’s underwriters for underwriting purposes.
Such information includes text of overdue conditions of Classification, survey due dates and certificate
expiration dates. The Owner/Operator will be advised of any request and/or release of information. In the
case of overdue conditions of Classification, the Owner/Operator will be given the opportunity to verify
the accuracy of the information prior to release.
ABS may release offshore unit or structure-specific information related to the Classification and statutory
certification status. This information may be published on the ABS website or by other media and may
include the offshore unit or structure classification, any operating restrictions noted in the ABS Record, the
names, dates and locations of all surveys performed by ABS, the expiration date of all Class and statutory
certificates issued by ABS, survey due dates, the text of conditions of Classification (also known as outstanding
recommendations), transfers, suspensions, withdrawals, cancellations and reinstatements of Class, and other
related information as may be required.
5 Class Notation
7.1 Applications
This Guide contains provisions for the Classification of offshore drilling systems, subsystems, equipment,
and/or components that are used for hydrocarbon well drilling, completion, workover, and/or well testing
or supporting such activities on mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs), offshore installations, tendering
vessels, and other structures that are classed by ABS. This Guide is intended for use in conjunction with
the latest edition of the following or other applicable ABS Rules and Guides:
• ABS Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU Rules)
• ABS Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units (MOU Guide)
• ABS Rules for Building and Classing Offshore Installations (Offshore Installations Rules)
• ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations (FPI Guide)
• ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels (Steel Vessel Rules)
• ABS Guide for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations (Facilities Guide)
If specifically requested by the Owner/Operator, this Guide can also be used as a basis for acceptance or
certification under the requirements of other Administrations. An Owner/Operator who requires a drilling
system to be evaluated for compliance with other national regulations should contact ABS.
If specifically requested by the manufacturers, Owner/Operator, or designers, ABS can provide approval of
individual equipment or component associated with drilling systems or subsystems in accordance with the
requirements of this Guide (see 4/3.7), and where the installation unit may not be classed with ABS.
7.5 Scope
This Guide covers the aspects of drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components used in
connection with hydrocarbon well drilling, completion, workover, and well testing operations.
Compliance with this Guide is required for the drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components
mentioned in Section 3, “Drilling Systems,” and typical listing in Section 4, Table 1. The drilling system
includes, but is not limited to, the following:
• Well Control System
- Blowout Preventer (BOP) Equipment
- Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP)
- Choke and Kill System
- Diverter System
- Auxiliary Well Control Equipment
• Marine Drilling Riser System and Associated Components
- Riser Tensioning System
- Riser Joints
- Connectors
- Riser Handling Tools
• Drill String Compensation System
• Bulk Storage, Circulating and Transfer System
• Hoisting, Lifting, Rotating and Pipe Handling System
• Derrick, Derrick Support Structures
• Drawwork, Rotary Table
• Well Test System
• Burner Booms
• Internal Combustion Engines Driving Drilling Machine
• Pressure Vessels Associated with Drilling and Well Control, Tensioning, and Fluid Storage
• Compressors for Drilling-Related Functions
7.7 Alternatives
7.7.1 General
The Committee is ready to consider alternative arrangements and designs which can be shown,
through either satisfactory service experience or a systematic analysis based on sound engineering
principles, to meet the overall safety, serviceability and design standards of the Rules and Guides.
7.7.2 National Standards
i) The Committee will consider special arrangements or design of drilling systems and their
equipment which can be shown to comply with standards recognized in the country provided
that the proposed standards are not less effective.
ii) When alternate standards are proposed, comparative analyses are to be provided to
demonstrate equivalent level of safety to the recognized standards as listed in this Guide
and to be performed in accordance with 1/7.7 of this Guide.
7.7.3 Novel Features
Drilling systems which contain novel features of design to which the provisions of this Guide are
not directly applicable may be classed, when approved by the Committee, on the basis that this
Guide, insofar as applicable, has been complied with and that special consideration has been given
to the novel features, based on the best information available at that time. Justifications of the
novel features can be accomplished by applying 1/7.7 of this Guide.
7.7.4 Risk Evaluations for Alternative Arrangements and Novel Features
i) Risk evaluations for the justification of alternative arrangements or novel features may be
applicable either to the drilling system as a whole, or to individual systems, subsystems,
equipment or components.
ii) ABS will consider the application of risk evaluations for alternative arrangements and
novel features in the design of the drilling system, subsystems, equipment or components,
verification surveys during construction, and surveys for maintenance of Class.
iii) When applied, risk assessment techniques are to demonstrate that alternatives arrangements
and/or novel features provide acceptable levels of safety in line with current offshore and
marine industry practice.
iv) The ABS Guidance Notes on Review and Approval of Novel Concepts, ABS Guidance Notes
on Risk Assessment Applications for the Marine and Offshore Oil and Gas Industries, and
ABS Guide for Risk Evaluations for the Classification of Marine-Related Facilities provides
guidance to ABS clients on how to prepare a risk evaluation to demonstrate equivalency
or acceptability for a proposed drilling system design.
v) Portions of the drilling system or any of its subsystems, equipment or components not
explicitly included in the risk evaluation submitted to ABS are to comply with any applicable
part of the ABS Rules and Guides.
vi) If any proposed alternative arrangement or novel feature affects any applicable requirements
of Flag and Coastal State, it is the responsibility of the Owner/Operator to discuss with
the applicable authorities the acceptance of alternatives based on risk evaluations.
7.7.4(a) Risk Assessment.
i) Risk assessment techniques may be used to demonstrate that alternatives and novel features
provide acceptable levels of safety in line with current offshore and marine industry practice.
ii) When this optional risk assessment is applied at the specific request of the designer or
manufacturer, all hazards that may affect the drilling system or any of its subsystems,
equipment or components are to be identified.
iii) A systematic process is to be applied to identify situations where a combination or sequence
of events could lead to undesirable consequences (property damage, personnel safety and
environmental damage), with consideration given to all foreseeable causes.
iv) The objective of the hazard identification is to identify areas of the design that may require
the implementation of further risk control options in order to reduce the risk to an acceptable
level.
v) The hazard identifications are to consider, as a minimum, the following events:
• Release of H2S, CO2, etc. • Loss/Failure of Mooring
• Hydrocarbon Release • Loss/Failure of Station Keeping
(Liquid or Gas)
• Loss of Stability
• Blowout
• Impact to Equipment
• Fire and Explosion
• Dropped Objects
• Loss of Purge Air
• Collision
• Structural Failure
• Helicopter Crash
• Mechanical Failure
• Extreme Environment
• Electrical Failure
vi) The identified risk control options (prevention and mitigation measures) deemed necessary
to be implemented are to be considered part of the design basis of the drilling system.
vii) Appendix 4 in the ABS Guide for Risk Evaluations for the Classification of Marine-Related
Facilities contains a description of the most common hazard identification techniques.
Also, Appendix 2 in the same Guide provides an overview of how to assemble an appropriate
risk assessment team.
viii) When the risk assessment technique is considered, ABS’ participation in the hazard
identification meeting(s) is recommended. Tangible benefits can be derived by the
participation of an ABS representative who will later be directly involved in reviewing
the designs for ABS Classification.
9 Other Regulations
11 IACS Audit
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) conducts audits of processes followed by
all of its member societies to assess the degree of compliance with the IACS Quality System Certification
Scheme requirements. For this purpose, auditors for IACS may accompany ABS personnel at any stage of
the Classification or statutory work, which may necessitate the auditors having access to the drilling
system, subsystems, equipment, and/or components or access to the premises of the builder or manufacturer.
In such instances, prior authorization for the auditor’s access will be sought by the local ABS office.
13 Submission of Plans
Typical documentation that is required to be submitted for drilling system, subsystems, equipment, and/or
components for the ABS Classification process is provided in Subsection 2/7 of this Guide.
i) Section 4 provides the ABS approval process for drilling systems, subsystem, equipment, and/or
components. Subsequently, Section 4, Table 1 identifies the typical drilling system, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components that are part of the ABS Classification process.
ii) Drilling system, subsystem, equipment and/or component-related drawings, calculations and
documentation are required to be submitted to ABS by entities as listed in Subsection 2/7 of this
Guide to substantiate that the design of the systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components
are in compliance with this Guide, and applicable codes or standards, as listed in this Guide.
iii) Upon satisfactory completion of ABS review of design plans and data, ABS Engineers will issue
an ABS approval letter and an Independent Review Certificate (IRC), as specified in Section 4,
Table 1 of this Guide. This letter or certificate, in conjunction with ABS approved documentation,
will be used and referenced during surveys. Subsequently, the ABS Surveyor will issue appropriate
survey reports.
iv) Upon satisfactory completion of all of the required engineering design review and survey processes
(inspection, testing, installation and commissioning), ABS will issue the Classification Certificate
to the operating unit, including the Class notation À CDS (abbreviation for Classed Drilling System).
17 Units
This Guide is written in three systems of units, viz., SI units, MKS units and US customary units. Each system
is to be used independently of any other system. Unless indicated otherwise, the format of presentation of
the three systems of units in this Guide is as follows:
SI units (MKS units, US customary units)
19 Fees
Fees in accordance with normal ABS practice will be charged for all services rendered by ABS. Expenses
incurred by ABS in connection with these services will be charged in addition to the fees. Fees and
expenses will be billed to the party requesting that particular service.
21 Disagreement
21.3 Surveyor
In case of disagreement between the Owner/Operator or builders and the Surveyors regarding the material,
workmanship, extent of repairs or application of the Rules and Guides relating to any system classed or
proposed to be classed by ABS, an appeal may be made in writing to the Committee, who will order a
special survey to be held. Should the opinion of the Surveyor be confirmed, expense of this special survey
is to be paid by the party appealing.
23 Limitation of Liability
The combined liability of the American Bureau of Shipping, its committees, officers, employees, agents or
subcontractors for any loss, claim or damage arising from its negligent performance or nonperformance of
any of its services or from breach of any implied or express warranty of workmanlike performance in
connection with those services, or from any other reason, to any person, corporation, partnership, business
entity, sovereign, country or nation, will be limited to the greater of a) $100,000 or b) an amount equal to
ten times the sum actually paid for the services alleged to be deficient.
The limitation of liability may be increased, up to an amount twenty-five times the sum paid for services,
upon receipt of Client’s written request at or before the time of performance of services, and upon payment
by Client of an additional fee of $10.00 for every $1,000.00 increase in the limitation.
25 References
In addition to the ABS Rules, and Guides as listed in 1/7.1, the additional requirements of the following
Guides, codes or standards are referenced in this Guide:
• ABS Guidance Notes on Review and Approval of Novel Concepts (Novel Concepts Guide)
• ABS Guide for Risk Evaluations for the Classification of Marine-Related Facilities
• ABS Guidance Notes on Risk Assessment Applications for the Marine and Offshore Oil and Gas Industries
• ABS Guide for Well Test Systems
• ABS Guide for Certification of Lifting Appliances
• ABS Guide for Surveys Using Risk-Based Inspections for the Offshore Industry(RBI Guide)
• ABS Guide for Surveys Based on Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM Guide)
• AGMA – American Gear Manufacturers Association
• AISC – American Institute of Steel Construction
• ANSI – American National Standards Institute
• API – American Petroleum Institute
• ASME – American Society of Mechanical Engineers
• ASNT – American Society for Nondestructive Testing
• ASTM – American Society for Testing and Materials
• AWS – American Welding Society
• IEC – International Electrotechnical Commission
• IEEE – Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
• IACS – International Association of Classification Societies
• ISO – International Organization for Standardization
• NACE – National Association of Corrosion Engineers
• NEMA – National Electrical Manufacturers Association
• NFPA – National Fire Protection Association
• NFPA – National Fluids Power Association
• SAE – Society of Automotive Engineers
• SPE – Society of Petroleum Engineers
• UL – Underwriters Laboratory
ABS is prepared to consider other recognized codes, standards, alternative design methodology and industry
practice, on a case-by-case basis, with justifications as indicated in 1/7.7 of this Guide.
27 Definitions
The following definitions are provided to clarify the use of certain terms in the context of this Guide:
Accumulator: A pressure vessel charged with high pressure air or nitrogen gas and used to store hydraulic
fluid under pressure for operation of blowout preventers.
Acoustic Control Systems: Acoustic signal transmission may be used as an emergency backup means for
controlling critical BOP stack functions, such as pipe ram preventers, shear ram preventer and marine drilling
riser connector including LMRP. The acoustic control system includes a surface electronics package,
acoustic pod transponder, subsea electronic package and a subsea electro-hydraulic package.
Acoustic Pod Transponder: Device which receives acoustic signals from the surface and provides command
signals to the subsea BOP control system.
Actuator: A mechanism for the remote or automatic operation of a valve or choke.
Annular Blowout Preventer: A device typically installed above the ram preventers used to control wellhead
pressure. A reinforced rubber packing element is compressed by hydraulic pressure to actuate the device to
seal. A standard annular BOP will shut off annular pressure, open-hole pressure and afford stripping of
tubing/drill pipe while containing well pressure.
Autoshear System: A safety system that is designed to automatically shut-in the wellbore in the event of a
disconnect of the LMRP. When the autoshear is armed, disconnect of the LMRP closes the shear rams on
BOP stack.
Auxiliary Line: A conduit (excluding choke and kill lines) attached to the outside of the drilling riser main
tube (e.g., hydraulic supply line, buoyancy control line, mud boost line).
Backpressure (Casing Pressure, Choke Pressure): The pressure existing at the surface on the casing side
of the drill string/annulus flow system.
Backup: An element or system that is intended to be used only in the event that the primary element or
system is nonfunctional.
Blind Rams: See “Rams”
Blind-shear Rams: See “Rams”
Blowout: An uncontrolled flow of well fluids/gas and/or formation fluids/gas from the wellbore to the
surface or into lower pressured subsurface zones (underground blowout).
Blowout Preventer (BOP): The equipment installed at the wellhead to prevent the escape of fluids under
pressure either in the annular space between the casing and drill pipe or in an open hole during drilling and
completion operations.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) Handling Crane: Gantry-type crane used to move BOP from storage location to
BOP transporter/skidder location.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) Operating and Control System: System of pumps, valves, accumulators, fluid storage
and mixing equipment, manifold, piping, hoses, control panels and other items necessary to hydraulically
operate the BOP equipment.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) Assembly: The complete assembly of BOP stack, frame, accumulators, pods,
valves, piping, connectors, jumpers, control systems, ROV interface panels, control piping, etc.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) Stack: The complete assembly of well control equipment including preventers,
spools, valves, and nipples connected to the top of the casinghead.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) Stack Frame: Steel frame to which the lower stack is mounted for handling and
mating with LMRP. Also serves as a support structure to mount various subsea equipment, such as subsea
accumulators and control pods.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) Transporter/Skidder: C-frame or fork-lift type trolley used to position the BOP
for deployment on the riser. May include integrated test stump.
Buffer Tank: A targeted, horizontal or vertical, cylindrical tank that changes the direction of fluid flow
downstream of the choke and serves as a flow director to the flare line, gas buster or mud-gas separator.
Bulk Storage: Tanks that are designed for storage of bulk materials for drilling fluid and cement mixing
(barite, bentonite, cement, etc.).
Buoyancy Equipment: Devices added to riser joints to reduce their apparent weight, thereby reducing riser
top tension requirements.
Burner Boom: Boom which extends over the deck edge to flare hydrocarbon from kick circulation or well
test operations.
Casinghead/Spool: The part of the wellhead to which the BOP stack is connected.
Casing Stabbing Board: Folding platform located in the derrick which positions the stabbing hand (pipe
stabber) while running casing. Similar to monkey board, but at a lower height.
Catastrophic Release: Major hydrocarbon release that results from uncontrolled developments and that
may lead to serious danger to personnel, asset, and environment.
Catwalk Ramp (Riser Skate): Combination conveyer and lifting riser transport system used to move riser
sections, drill pipes, casing or tool joints from deck storage to the drill floor.
Cementing Manifold: Used to direct high pressure cement through the cement standpipe.
Cement Pump: High pressure positive-displacement-type pump used for cementing operations, often connected
to the kill line for emergency kill operations, usually smaller capacity than mud pump.
Choke: A device with either a fixed or variable orifice used to control the rate of flow of liquids and/or gas.
Chokes are also used to control the rate of the flow of drilling mud out of the hole when the well is closed
in with the blowout preventer and a kick is being circulated out of the hole.
Choke Line: The high-pressure piping (flexible lines, rigid piping, valves, connectors, fittings, etc.) between
the mud pumps and BOP outlets or wellhead outlets.
Choke Line Valve: The valve(s) connected to and a part of the BOP stack that allows fluids flow to the
choke manifold.
Choke Manifold: An assembly of valves, chokes, gauges, and piping components through which drilling
fluid is circulated when the blowout preventer is closed to control the pressure encountered during a kick.
Clamp Connection: A pressure sealing device used to join two items without using conventional bolted
flange joints. The two items to be sealed are prepared with clamp hubs. These hubs are held together by a
clamp containing minimum of four bolts.
Classified Area: A location in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the air in
quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures (see the MODU Rules, API RP 500 or API
RP 505 for additional details).
Closing Unit: The assembly of pumps, valves, lines, accumulators, and other items necessary to open and
close the BOP equipment.
Computer-Based Systems: Programmable Logic Solvers (PLC), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PC or
server-based computation systems and any E/E/PES. In most situations, hydraulic and/or pneumatic medium
is controlled by the computer-based control system.
Control Panel/Console: Main operator interface for various installation systems (may be hydraulic, electric,
electronic, mechanical, pneumatic, or any combination thereof).
Control Manifold: An assembly of valves and piping to control the flow of hydraulic fluid to operate the
various components of systems, equipment or components.
Control Panel, Remote: A panel containing a series of controls that will operate the valves on the control
manifold from a remote point.
Control Pod: An assembly of subsea valves and regulators that when activated from the surface will direct
hydraulic fluid through special apertures to operate the BOP equipment.
Drilling Spool: A fitting placed in the blowout preventer stack with internal diameters at least equal to the
bore of the BOP to provide space between preventers with smaller side outlets for facilitating stripping and
other operations, to permit attachment of choke and kill lines, and for localizing possible erosion by fluid
flow to the spool.
Dump Tank: Calibrated tank used to measure the volume of a liquid, may be drilling mud or reservoir fluids.
Electrical Control System: Control systems that are based on relays and analog discrete components
without a central processor unit. Manual switches, relays and potentiometers are used for control of the
equipment. In most situations, hydraulic and/or pneumatic medium is controlled by the electrical control
system.
Elevator, Drilling: Hinged clamp-type device used to grasp drill pipe or casing for lifting by the drilling
hook, may be either manually or hydraulically/pneumatically operated.
Elevator, Personnel: Lifting device used for rig personnel, may be on or off the drill floor.
Equipment: Mechanical and structural components of the drilling systems.
Escape Routes: Designated path used by personnel to evade an immediate danger and ultimately leads to a
temporary refuge or muster station.
Finger Board: A rack located in the derrick that supports the top of the stands of pipe stacked in the derrick.
Fill-up Valve: A special riser joint having a valve means to allow the riser annulus to be opened to the sea.
To prevent riser pipe collapse, an automatic actuator controlled by a differential-pressure sensor may open
the valve.
Flammable Fluid: Any fluid, regardless of its flash point, capable of feeding a fire. Examples are diesel
fuel, hydraulic oil (oil-based), lubricating oil, crude oil, or hydrocarbons.
Flash Point: The minimum temperature at which a combustible liquid gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air near the surface of the liquid or within the vessel used,
as determined by the test procedure and apparatus specified in NFPA 30.
Flex Joint: A steel and elastomer assembly having central through-passage equal to or greater in diameter
than the riser bore that may be positioned in the riser string to reduce local bending stresses.
Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses: Conduits that can accommodate the relative motion, and/or vibration
encountered on drilling facility and use to transfer fluids (mud, cement, hydraulic fluids, etc.). Typical uses
for flexible lines and/or hydraulic hoses within the drilling facility are:
• Rotary and vibratory hoses
• Cementing hoses
• Choke and kill flexible lines, and auxiliary lines (drapes and jumpers)
• Hydraulic hoses for control functions and operations
Floating Installation: An offshore facility designed to provide hydrocarbon processing and/or hydrocarbon
storage, and offload hydrocarbons. The term is used to generically identify a buoyant facility that is site-
specific. The installation is securely and substantially moored so that it cannot be moved without a special
effort.
Gimbal: Shock absorbing support for the riser spider which allows some angular movement of the spider
and riser relative to the rig support structure.
Gooseneck: Curved connection between the rotary hose and the swivel or top drive.
Hazardous Area: See “Classified Areas”.
Heave: Vessel motion in the vertical direction due to marine environment.
Hook, Drilling: Hook-shaped lifting device attached to the traveling block from which the swivel (or top drive)
is suspended.
Hydraulic Cylinder: Mechanical device used to convert hydraulic fluid pressure to linear action.
Hydraulic Hoses: Conduits that can accommodate the relative motion, and/or vibration encountered on a
drilling facility and used to transfer fluid for hydraulic system functions.
Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU): Skid-mounted systems used to provide hydraulic power, usually comprised
of a hydraulic fluid reservoir, filters, hydraulic pump, motor and control.
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S): A highly toxic, flammable, corrosive gas sometimes encountered in hydrocarbon-
bearing formations.
Hydrogen Sulfide Service: Refers to equipment designed to resist corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement
caused by exposure to hydrogen sulfide.
Ignitable Mixture: A mixture that is within the flammable range (between the upper and lower limits) and
is therefore capable of propagation of flame away from the source of ignition.
Inside Blowout Preventer (IBOP): Backpressure or check valve installed in drill string to prevent a blowout
inside the drill string. Flow is possible only downward, allowing mud to be pumped in but preventing any
flow back up the drill string.
Iron Roughneck: Tool with automated combination of spinning and torqueing for make-up or break-down
of drill string pipes during drilling operation.
Jumper Line: A flexible section of choke, kill, or auxiliary line that provides a continuous flow around a
flex/ball joint while accommodating the angular motion at the flex/ball joint.
Kelly: The uppermost component of the drill string; the kelly is an extra-heavy joint of pipe with flat or
fluted sides that is free to move vertically through a “kelly bushing” in the rotary table; the kelly bushing
imparts torque to the kelly and thereby the drill string is rotated.
Kelly Bushing: Device which imparts torque to the kelly from the master bushing and permits vertical
movement of the kelly.
Kelly Cock: A valve immediately above the kelly that can be closed to confine pressures inside the drill string.
Kelly Spinner: Pneumatically-operated device mounted to the top of the kelly used to spin up the kelly for
making connections on a rotary table-type rig.
Kelly Valve, Lower: An essentially full-opening valve installed immediately below the kelly, with outside
diameter equal to the tool joint outside diameter.
Kick: Unscheduled, unwanted entry of water, gas, oil or other formation fluid into wellbore. It occurs because
pressure exerted by column of drilling fluid is not great enough to overcome the pressure exerted by the
fluids in the formation drilled. If prompt action is not taken to control the kick or kill the well, a blowout
will occur.
Kill: In drilling/well servicing, to prevent a threatened blowout by taking suitable preventative measures
(e.g., to shut in well with blowout preventer, circulate kick out, and increase weight of drilling/completion/
workover fluid).
Kill Line: The high-pressure piping (flexible lines, rigid piping, valves, connectors, fittings, etc.) between
the pumps (cement or mud pumps) and BOP outlets or wellhead outlets.
Kill Unit: Control panel for choke manifold.
Links, Drilling (Bell Nipple): Strong rods which connect the drilling elevators to the hook and allow
movement for the elevator to be pushed out of the way when not in use.
Lower Explosive Limit (L.E.L.): The lowest concentration of combustible vapors or gases, by volume in
mixture with air, which can be ignited at ambient conditions.
Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP): Part of the blowout preventer stack assembly; usually contains LMRP
connector, one or more annular-type preventers, lower flex joint, riser adapter, and MUX control pods.
Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Connector: Hydraulic connector used to securely latch the LMRP to
the BOP stack.
Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Frame: Structural frame which is used for handling of the LMRP
and integration with the BOP stack. It also serves as a support structure to mount various subsea equipment
such as subsea accumulators and control pods.
Machinery Spaces (other than Category A): All spaces containing machinery, boilers, and other fired processes,
oil fuel units, steam and internal combustion engines, generators, and major electrical machinery, oil filling
stations, refrigerating, stabilizing, ventilation, and air-conditioning machinery and similar spaces.
Machinery Spaces of Category A: All spaces which contain internal combustion-type machinery used either:
• For main propulsion; or
• For other purposes where such machinery has in the aggregate a total power of not less than 375 kW; or
• Which contain any oil-fired boiler or oil fuel unit; and trunks to such spaces.
Manifold: An accessory system of piping to a main piping system (or another conductor) that serves to
divide a flow into several parts, to combine several flows into one, or to reroute a flow to any one of several
possible destinations.
Manriding Winch: Winch used solely for personnel lifting operations.
Marine Drilling Riser System: The extension of the well bore from the subsea BOP stack to the floating
drilling vessel which provides for fluid returns to the drilling vessel, supports the choke, kill, and control lines,
booster lines, auxiliary lines, guides tools into the well, and serves as a running string for the BOP stack.
Master Bushing: Device which imparts torque from the rotary table to the kelly bushing and accepts the slips.
Maximum Allowable Working (Operating) Pressure (MAWP) or Rated Working Pressure (RWP): The
maximum internal pressure equipment or system is designed to operate or work and to contain and/or
control the pressure.
Minimum Design Temperature (MDT): The lowest predictable metal temperature occurring during normal
operation including start-up, shut-down and ambient situation is to be used.
Mud Agitator: Motor-driven paddle or blade to mix, or maintain mixture of, drilling mud in the mud pits.
Mud Boost Line: An auxiliary line which provides supplementary fluid supply from the surface and injects it
into the riser at the LMRP to assist in the circulation of drill cuttings up the marine drilling riser, when required.
Mud-Gas Separator: A vessel for removing free gas from the drilling fluid returns, generally used when
circulating a gas kick out of the well.
Mud Pump: Large high-pressure pump used to circulate drilling fluid, usually positive-displacement type.
Multiplex (MUX) Control System: A system utilizing electrical or optical conductors in an armored subsea
umbilical cable such that, on each conductor, multiple distinct functions are independently operated by
dedicated serialized coded commands.
Nonhazardous Areas (Unclassified Locations): Locations determined to be neither “hazardous areas” nor
“classified areas” (see Classified Area” for definition).
Operating Conditions: A set of conditions (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rates, composition, loads, etc.)
chosen for normal operation of a facility, system, or equipment.
Personnel Basket: Device in which personnel ride in during lifting operations in personnel cranes, elevators,
and man-riding winches.
Pipe Rams: See “Rams”.
Power Slips: Automated slips controlled by the driller, usually hydraulically or pneumatically operated.
Power Tongs: Automated tongs used to torque drill pipe to final torque or to breakout pipe connections.
Process Area: Area where processing equipment is located to handle hydrocarbon. This includes
wellhead/manifold areas, well testing equipment.
Pulsation Dampeners: Chambered device used to dampen pressure pulsations in a fluid flow.
Rotary Table: A device through which passes the bit and drill string and that transmits rotational action to
the kelly.
Rupture (or Bursting) Disc: A device designed to rupture or burst and relieve pressure at a defined pressure
and rate. The device will not close after being activated.
Safe Working Load (SWL): The maximum rated load within the lifting appliance rated capacity for the
given operating conditions.
Safety Factor: The relationship between maximum allowable stress level and a defined material property,
normally specified minimum yield strength.
Safety Shutdown: A safety system action that will be initiated upon signal or failure and is to result in
shutdown of systems, subsystems, equipment, component, or part of the facility.
Safety System: Electronic or electrical or mechanical system installed to execute protective measures based
on a predefined logic to bring an undesirable event under control based on manual or automatic execution
or to monitor critical parameters and initiate alarms.
Shale Shaker: Any of several mechanical devices utilizing screens and vibration that remove cuttings and
other large solids from drilling fluid.
Shear Rams: See “Rams”.
Sheaves: Grooved pulley for use with wire rope.
Shut-in: A condition resulting from a shutting-in of the wellbore caused by the occurrence of one or more
undesirable events and/or actions of the safety shutdown.
Spudding: The start of drilling the subsea well.
Subsystem: An assembly of interconnected or interrelated parts that performs tasks as a component as a
subset of a system.
System: An assembly of various subsystems combing in to a unified whole.
Surveyor: ABS’s representative on location to perform examination or inspection activities.
Survival Condition: Condition during which a unit may be subjected to the most severe environmental loading
for which the unit is designed. Drilling or similar operations may have been discontinued due to the severity
of the environmental loading. The unit may be either afloat or supported on the sea bed, as applicable.
Telescopic Joint (Slip Joint): A riser joint having an inner barrel and an outer barrel with sealing means
between. The inner and outer barrels of the telescopic joint move relative to each other to compensate for
the required change in the length of the riser string as the vessel moves due to marine environment.
Tensioning Unit: Main operator interface for riser tensioning system.
Test Pressure: The pressure at which the component or system is tested to verify structural and pressure
integrity.
Test Stump: Stump with wellhead profile used to support the BOP during surface pressure test operations.
Also used during BOP storage.
Top Drive (Power Swivel): A device used to support, drive and rotate the drill string and drilling tools in or
out of the well, may be either electrically or hydraulically powered.
Transit Condition: Unit movements from one geographical location to another.
Traveling Block: Set of sheaves which move up and down in the derrick as drilling line is paid out or taken in.
Trip: The operation of hoisting the drill string from and returning it to the wellbore.
Trip Tank: Small mud tank used to keep track of the volume of mud displaced by the drill string during
“trip in” and “”trip out”
Type Approval: See Appendix 1-1-A2 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units
and Structures (Part 1).
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Device supplying output power in some limited time period after
loss of input power with no interruption of the output power.
Umbilical: A control hose bundle or electrical cable that runs from the reel onto the control pod on the LMRP.
Upset Condition: A condition that occurs in a system, subsystem, equipment or component when an operating
variable deviates substantially from its normal operating limits. If left unchecked, this condition will result
in a threat to safety, or undesirable events, and may cause shutting-in of system, subsystems, equipment or
component.
Utility Systems: Various systems providing the supporting functions to the drilling operations. Typical utility
systems are cooling water, hot oil for heating, chemical systems for injection, hydraulic, potable water,
nitrogen generation and system, instrument air and power generation system, etc.
Wellhead Connector: Hydraulic connector used to securely latch the lower BOP stack to the wellhead.
Wire Rope: Cable composed of steel wires twisted around a central core of wire or fiber.
Wireline Spoolers: System consisting of a drum, motor and control system used for running or retrieving
wireline. Often skid-mounted, may be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically operated.
Working Load: The mass of the load lifted plus the mass of the accessories (e.g., sheave blocks, hooks,
slings, etc.).
1.1 General
The designer of the drilling system is to evaluate the system as a whole, considering the interfacing and
interdependence of subsystems.
The required design plans and data to be submitted for ABS design review and approval related to the
drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components are listed in Subsection 2/7 and Section 4, Table 1
of this Guide.
xv) Equipment arrangement drawings are to show the location of all equipment, living quarters, all
machinery spaces, tanks, derrick, wellheads/moon pool, flare and vents, escape route, evacuation
equipment, air intake, opening to close spaces, and any fire and barrier walls.
xvi) Additional requirements related to general arrangement and equipment layout are also to consider the
applicable requirements of the MODU Rules.
xvii) The equipment arrangement drawings are to indicate the hazardous areas throughout the facility,
as defined in Section 4-3-6 of the MODU Rules.
1.7 Materials
The materials for each component are to be selected with consideration of their fitness for the intended
service and in accordance with the applicable codes and standards as referenced in this Guide, in addition to
the material requirements of Section 6 of this Guide.
The experience of the manufacturers, designers and related performance records will be specially considered
in accordance with 1/7.7 of this Guide.
3 Design Specifications
The design specification for drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components is to consider as a
minimum, but not limited to, the most adverse combination of applicable loads listed in 2/5.7 and is to consist of
design plans, drawings, data, and calculations, as outlined in Subsection 2/7, to substantiate the design.
i) In addition to the design specifications, the manufacturing specifications are to include material
specifications, WPS/PQR, NDE, and testing procedures/specifications utilized in the manufacturing,
installation, and commissioning of each system, subsystem, equipment, and/or component and are to
comply with the applicable section of this Guide, in addition to the codes or standards used.
ii) Design plans and data are to be submitted for ABS approval of drilling systems, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components, in accordance with Subsection 2/7 and the requirements of this Guide.
5 Design Considerations
iii) When alternate design codes and standards are proposed, justifications can be achieved through
equivalency, gap analysis or appropriate risk analysis/philosophy to demonstrate that the proposed
alternate design code and standard will provide an equivalent level of safety to the recognized
standards as listed in this Guide and are required to be performed in accordance with 1/7.7 of this
Guide.
iv) Installation
v) Commissioning
vi) Storage and Maintenance
vii) Test Loads
iv) Design and manufacturing details for BOP stack equipment to include preventers, drill
spools, wellhead connectors, clamps, spacer spools, adapter spools, etc.:
• Design parameters: pressure rating (RWP/MAWP, or design pressure), temperature
rating (min/max), loads, maximum water depth, service conditions, etc.
• Dimensional detailed drawings and fabrication details
• Material specifications and material properties
• Design analysis for pressure-retaining equipment
• Individual BOP (annular and ram) details. This is to include manufacturer documentation
to specify and to attest BOP minimum and maximum capability with regard to:
- Drill pipe size - Wire line, or
- Tool joints - Combination of the above
- Casing
• Documentation to confirm the shear rams capability of shearing the various tubulars
(sizes, grades, strengths, etc.) under the specified design conditions
• Prototype test data, as required by the design code
• Manufacturing specifications (see 2/7.27)
v) BOP stack assembly
• BOP stack configuration with individual annular and ram preventer details. This is to
include manufacturer’s documentation to specify and to attest BOP stack minimum
and maximum capability with regard to:
- Drill pipe size - Wire line, or
- Tool joints - Combination of the above
- Casing
• BOP stack assembly drawings for BOP systems showing:
- Stack configuration showing all equipment
- Structural frame details
- Lift points/attachments
- Arrangements showing accumulators, pods, valves, piping, connectors, jumper lines,
etc.
• Design details and structural analysis for BOP structural frame and lifting attachments
• Material specifications and material properties
• Manufacturing specifications (see 2/7.27)
vi) Control system details:
• Control panel and control equipment arrangements, showing locations on drilling unit
• See 2/7.19, “Control Systems”
vii) Subsea control pods drawings and associated calculations
viii) Pressure relief system: Arrangements, size, materials, back pressure and capacity calculations,
as applicable
ix) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
• See 2/7.17, “Electrical Systems and Equipment”
i) Design basis:
• Descriptions of the choke and kill systems and equipment, including design parameters,
pressure rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max.)
• P&IDs and schematic diagrams
• Equipment arrangement details
• Equipment technical specifications and data sheet
• Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
ii) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
• See 2/7.17, “Electrical Systems and Equipment”
iii) Control system details:
• See 2/7.19, “Control Systems”
iv) Design details for manifolds, pressure vessels, and tanks:
• See 2/7.21, “Pressure-Retaining Equipment”
v) Design details for rigid piping, valves, and fittings:
• See 2/7.23, “Piping Systems and Piping Components”
vi) Design details for flexible lines:
• See 2/7.25, “Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses”
vii) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
viii) Manufacturing specifications (see 2/7.27)
ix) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance (see 4/3.1.2)
7.3.4 Diverter Equipment
i) Design basis:
• Descriptions of the diverter system and equipment, including design parameters, pressure
rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max)
• P&IDs and schematic diagrams
• Equipment technical specifications and data sheet
• Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
ii) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
• See 2/7.17, “Electrical Systems and Equipment”
iii) Control system details:
• See 2/7.19, “Control Systems”
iv) Design details for manifolds:
• See 2/7.21, “Pressure-Retaining Equipment”
v) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:
• See 2/7.23, “Piping Systems and Piping Components”
vi) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
vii) Manufacturing specifications (see 2/7.27)
viii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance (see 4/3.1.2)
iv) Descriptions of all computer programs, analysis methodologies and limits, and other
calculation procedures that will form the basis of the structural design and analysis
v) Structural analysis report:
• Design load development and computer input for all design conditions
• Computer model geometry plots (group IDs, joint numbers, members and lengths, critical
unity checks)
• Allowable stresses
• Computer stress analysis
• Computer output; support reactions, unity stress checks
• Justifications for any stress exceeding the stated allowable stress
• Derrick bolt design and torque procedures by manufacturer
• Attachment locations for other equipment (e.g., drill string compensation, riser
tensioning, etc.)
• Supplemental calculations:
- Sheave shaft strength (including shafts for cluster, fastline, and deadline sheaves)
- Crown frame and Water table beams (or Top beams)
- Bolting designs for base plates and splice plates
- Strength of welded joints
- Platforms or sub-structure, as applicable
- Padeyes, as applicable
vi) Structural drawings:
• General arrangement drawings
• Derrick assembly drawings
• Crown block assembly drawings
• Water table assembly drawings
• Geometry layout drawing; showing overall dimensions of derrick and indicating the
size of each member
• Detailed drawings of the main structural elements of the derrick, crown frame, and
water table beams, including:
- Details and sizes for main structural elements
- Material specifications and material properties for all load-bearing components
and bolts (if bolted design), including CVN testing requirements, as applicable
- Bolt connections and tightening procedures
- Welding details and other methods of connection
• Base plate, anchor bolt plan and bolting procedures
• Bolts sheet
vii) Manufacturing specifications (see 2/7.27)
viii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable (see 4/3.1.2)
• Detail drawings of the main structural elements of the burner flare boom, including:
- Details and sizes for main structural elements
- Material specifications and material properties for all load-bearing components
and bolts (if bolted design), including CVN testing requirements, as applicable
- Bolt connections and tightening procedures
- Welding details and other methods of connection
• Base plate and anchor bolt plan
• Bolts sheet
7.15.3 Pressure-Retaining Equipment
See 2/7.21, “Pressure-Retaining Equipment”.
7.15.4 Piping System
See 2/7.23, “Piping Systems and Piping Components”.
7.15.5 Pressure Relief Equipment
Submit capacity calculations, sizes, arrangements, and material specifications for the pressure relief
valves and depressurization systems.
7.15.6 Manufacturing Specifications
See 2/7.27, “Manufacturing Specifications”
7.15.7 Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance
See 4/3.1.2, “Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance”
vi) FMEA, FMECA or similar analysis for computer-based systems [see 3/15.5.2(b) and (c)]
vii) Documentation in accordance with the recognized industry standard is to be submitted for review
to justify the safety integrity levels, when applicable [see 3/15.5.2(d)]
viii) Calculations for control systems demonstrating the system’s ability to react adequately to anticipated
occurrences, including transients
ix) Arrangements and details of control consoles/panels, including front views, installation arrangements
together with schematic plans and logic description for all power, control and monitoring systems,
including their functions
x) Type and size of all electrical cables and wiring associated with the control systems, including
voltage rating, service voltage and currents, together with overload and short-circuit protection
xi) Schematic plans and logic description of hydraulic and pneumatic control systems together with all
interconnections, piping sizes and materials, including working pressures and relief-valve settings
xii) Description of all alarm and emergency tripping arrangements and functional sketches or description of
all special valves, actuators, sensors and relays
xiii) Shutdown logic and/or shutdown cause and effect charts
xiv) Hydrocarbon and H2S gas detection system plans and data, including detectors, piping, set points,
type of detectors, and location of alarm panels, and recalibration program for gas detectors
ii) Piping components are considered, but not limited to, pipes, valves, hoses, fittings, flanges, bolts,
etc. Piping component design specifications to include the following information in accordance
with piping standard rating, as applicable:
• Technical specifications
• Design pressure (internal/external) and/or pressure rating
• Design temperature (min/max)
• Fluid medium (specifically note if piping standard rating is for sour service)
• Design code and standards
• Corrosion/erosion allowances
• Wall thickness for each line size
• Material specifications including material properties
• Details for manufacturing specifications (see 2/7.27)
• Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance (see 4/3.1.2)
See Section 4, Table 1, “Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment” for ABS approval requirements.
1 General
Drilling systems consist of multiple sub-systems simultaneously operating together to bore a hole on the
surface of subsea floor. A drilling system must contain the ability to hoist, pump fluids down the well
through the drill bit, must be able to clean the drill fluid returning from the well while maintaining hole
quality.
Drilling systems typically consist of the following systems and/or sub-systems:
• Well Control System
- Blowout Preventer (BOP) Equipment
- Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP)
- Choke and Kill System
- Diverter System
- Auxiliary Well Control Equipment
• Marine Drilling Riser System and Associated Components
- Riser Tensioning System
• Drill String Compensation System
• Bulk Storage, Circulating and Transfer System
• Hoisting, Lifting, Rotating and Pipe Handling System
- Derrick, Derrick Support Structures
• Well Test System
• Burner Booms
• Drawwork, Rotary Table
• Power Generation
• Control Systems
This Guide provides detailed procedures for ABS approval of drilling system, subsystems, equipment,
and/or components for Classification of drilling system. The term Classification, in this document,
indicates that a drilling system and its equipment have been designed, constructed, tested, installed and
surveyed in compliance with relevant ABS Rules, Guides, this Guide or other recognized standards.
The following is to be considered in ABS Classification of Drilling Systems:
i) The drilling system, subsystems, equipment, and/or components are to be designed and manufactured
in compliance with the recognized codes and standards, as listed in Appendix 1, and the additional
requirements specified in this Guide.
ii) Where a certain aspect of the design is not in compliance with the recognized code, standard or the
requirements of this Guide, the specific variations are to be advised and justified and will be
specially considered by ABS in accordance with 1/7.7 of this Guide, on a case-by-case basis.
iii) ABS approval requirements for typical drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components
are outlined in Section 4, Table 1 - “Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment” of this
Guide.
Blowout Preventer (BOP) System and Equipment API Spec 16A, Spec 16D
API RP 53, RP 59
Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) API Spec 16A, Spec 16D, Spec 16F, Spec 16R
API RP 16Q
Choke and Kill System and Equipment API Spec 6A, Spec 16C, Spec 16F
API RP 53, RP 59
Diverter System and Equipment API Spec 6A, Spec 16D
API RP 53, RP 64
Marine Drilling Riser System API Spec 16A, Spec 16F, Spec 16R
API RP 16Q, API Bull. 16J
Auxiliary Well Control Equipment API Spec 7-1, Spec 16A
API RP 53
Mud Circulation System and Equipment See Subsection 3/9
BOP Stack Structural Frame and BOP Handling API RP 2A WSD
AISC
iii) Installed ram-type BOP is to have, as a minimum, a working pressure equal to 3.5 MPa
(500 psi) greater than the maximum anticipated surface pressure (MASP) to be encountered.
iv) The ram-type BOP positions and outlet arrangements on subsea BOP stacks are to provide
reliable means to handle potential well control events. Specifically for floating operations,
the arrangement is to provide means to:
• Close in on the drill string and on casing or liner and allow circulation
• Close and seal on open hole and allow volumetric well control operations
• Strip the drill string using the annular BOP(s)
• Hang off the drill pipe on a ram-type BOP and control the wellbore
• Shear logging cable or the drill pipe and seal the wellbore
• Disconnect the riser from the BOP stack
• Circulate the well after drill pipe disconnect
• Circulate across the BOP stack to remove trapped gas
v) Systems of valves complying with the requirements of 3/3.5 are to be provided.
vi) For subsea BOP, the use of drilling spools is not recommended in order to reduce the overall
height of the subsea BOP stack arrangements.
vii) Spacer spools are used to provide separation between two (2) drill-through components
with equal sized end connections (nominal size designation and pressure rating). Typically,
they are used to allow additional space between preventers to facilitate stripping, hang off,
and/or shear operations but may serve other purposes in a stack as well.
viii) Spacer spools for BOP stacks are to meet the following minimum specifications:
• Have a vertical bore diameter the same internal diameter as the mating equipment
• Have a rated working pressure equal to the rated working pressure of the mating
equipment
• Are not to have any penetrations capable of exposing the wellbore to the environment,
without dual isolation capabilities
ix) The BOP equipment is to be designed for the specific drilling envelope, and suitable for
the intended facility. BOP manufacturer is to specify and to attest BOP stack minimum
and maximum capability with regard to the following including shearing and pressure-
temperature capabilities:
• Drill pipe, tool joint, casing sizes
• Wire lines
• Water depth
• Pressure
• Temperature
x) The BOP structural frame and lifting attachments are to be designed considering applicable
loads as specified in 2/5.7 of this Guide and in accordance with the requirements of API
RP 2A-WSD or other recognized standards. Allowable stresses are to be in accordance
with design standards and/or AISC.
3.1.2 Well Control Systems for Blowout Preventers – Surface and Subsea
i) The control systems and components (hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic, etc.)
are to comply with Subsection 3/15 of this Guide and are to be in compliance with API
Spec 16D, and API RP 53. This also includes response time, volumetric capacity of the
accumulator system, hydraulic reservoir, pump system sizing and arrangements.
ii) For subsea, BOP systems are to have sufficient usable hydraulic fluid volume (with pumps
inoperative) to close and open one annular-type preventer and all ram-type preventers
from full-open position and open HCR valve against zero wellbore pressure. After closing
and opening one annular preventer, all ram-type preventers and one HCR valve, the remaining
pressure is to be 1.38 MPa (200 psi) or more above the minimum precharge pressure.
iii) For surface, BOP systems are to have sufficient usable hydraulic fluid volume (with pumps
inoperative) to close one annular-type preventer, all ram-type preventers from a full-open
position, and open one HCR valve against zero wellbore pressure. After closing one annular
preventer, all ram-type preventers, and opening one HCR valve, the remaining pressure
shall be 1.38 MPa (200 psi) or more above the minimum recommended precharge pressure.
iv) The minimum precharge pressure for the BOP system is to be determined based on the
following in accordance with API Spec 16D and API RP 53:
• BOP stack configuration and minimum required operator pressure
• Water depth
• Hydraulic fluid density
• Local regulations
• Operational sequence
v) Floating installations or dynamically-positioned units require the following independent
secondary well control systems and safety features. These systems are to be designed in
accordance with API Spec 16D:
• Deadman System
• Autoshear System
vi) If installation is provided with acoustic control system, the system is to be designed in
accordance with API Spec 16D. The acoustic control is to be a portable control unit,
which can be handled by one person, and is to be available for the closing of the BOPs in
the event of evacuation from the facility
vii) For surface well control systems, a reserve supply of pressurized nitrogen gas can serve as a
backup means to operate functions in the event that the pump system power supply is lost.
viii) As a minimum, two (2) full-functioning well control panels are to be provided:
• One (1) well control panel is to be at driller’s station or cabin and where it is protected
from drilling activities.
• A second well control panel is to be located in a nonhazardous area, as defined in the
MODU Rules (see 4-3-5/7.1), API RP 500 or API RP 505, without having to cross the
drill floor or cellar deck, and is to be arranged for easy access in case of emergency.
ix) Well control panels are to be accessible and operable at all times.
x) Well control panels are to be mutually independent and simultaneously functional (i.e.,
directly connected to the control system, and not connected in series).
xi) Control systems are to be arranged to ensure the operational capability upon loss of any
single component. This will include the use of functionally independent actuation lines,
input/output devices and the provision of system isolation.
xii) The well control panels are to include controls for at least, but not limited to:
• Close or open of all rams, annular preventers, and choke and kill valves (HCR valves)
at BOP
• Diverter operations
• Disconnect of riser connector (floating installations)
• Emergency disconnect (DP units)
• Mechanical locking of rams, as applicable
xii) BOP stack is to be equipped with ROV intervention equipment, which at the minimum allows
the closing of one set of pipe ram, closing of one each blind-shear rams, and unlatching of
the LMRP. These functions are to operate independently of the primary BOP control system.
xiv) ROV interface and/or receptacles are to mate with API 17H high-low stabs. Operated control
systems and interventions are to be provided for subsea BOP stack for all installations
xv) For subsea BOP stack, adequate measure is to be provided to prevent accidental unlatching
of the wellhead connector until the well is secure, such as two-hand function, two-step
action, protective cover or equivalent.
3.1.3 Blowout Preventer Equipment
3.1.3(a) Design Requirements.
i) Surface and subsea, ram and annular blowout preventers, including workover and well
servicing BOPs, ram blocks, annular packing units, valves, wellhead connectors, drilling
spools, adapter spools and clamps are to be designed, fabricated and tested by the respective
manufacturers for compliance with API Spec 6A, Spec 16A, Spec 16C, Spec 16D and the
additional requirements of this Guide.
ii) The working pressure of ram-type BOPs is to exceed the maximum anticipated surface
pressure (MASP). Provisions are to be made for closing BOPs on all sizes of drill pipe,
drill collars and casing that may be used.
iii) Hydraulically-operated wellhead, riser and choke and kill line connectors are to have
redundant mechanisms for unlock and disconnect.
iv) The secondary unlock and disconnect mechanism may be hydraulic or mechanical, but
must operate independently of the primary unlocking and disconnect mechanism.
v) In addition to the design conditions/loads listed in 2/5.7 of this Guide, the design of preventers
is to consider the following loads, as applicable:
• The weight of a specified length of drill string suspended in the pipe ram preventer
• Loads induced from the marine drilling riser
vi) On fixed units, if the tool joints cannot be sheared, the following is to be considered:
• Two (2) shear rams must be installed as for DP units, or
• Lifting or lowering of main hoisting system is to be possible in all operational conditions,
including emergency operation. The main hoisting system is to be included in the
emergency power source.
vii) The blind-shear rams are to be capable to seal after shearing operation.
viii) The shear rams are to be capable of shearing the largest section and highest-grade of tubulars
(drill pipe, casing, tool joints, wireline, etc), as applicable, under the design conditions
and at the rated working pressure.
ix) The shear ram is to be capable to shear at the minimum operator design pressure and is to
consider the following, simultaneously, as applicable:
• Forces to shear highest-grade of tubulars
• Rated working pressure of BOP
• Internal pressure of the drill pipe due to fluids
• Frictional force
• Test mandrel/piston closing area
x) The annular, pipe and blind ram BOP operator design pressure is to consider the following,
simultaneously, as applicable:
• Well bore pressure
• Rated working pressure of BOP
xi) Procedures to test preventers during manufacturing and “on-site” are to be developed and
submitted for ABS review.
xii) For subsea BOP and associated components such as valves, control system components,
sealing components, elastomeric components, etc., are to be designed with consideration
to marine conditions and external pressure gradient due to rated water depth.
xiii) All nonmetallic materials are to be suitable for the intended service conditions, such as
temperature and fluid compatibility.
xiv) Materials are to be in accordance with Section 6 of this Guide.
xv) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Section 7 of this Guide, as applicable.
3.1.3(b) Operations/Maintenance Manuals.
i) Blowout preventer manufacturers are to provide the Owner/Operator with product operations
and maintenance manuals to assist in the safe operation of each assembly on each installation.
ii) The manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedules are to be available for each
component of the assembly. These schedules are to prescribe maintenance routines.
ii) The LMRP design is to consider the induced loads as defined in API Spec 16F and API RP 16Q,
as a minimum, for the following modes:
• Installation • Storage and maintenance
• Drilling • Hang-off
• Retrieval • Drifting
iii) For dynamically-positioned floating units, an emergency disconnect is to be provided.
iv) The emergency disconnect is to initiate and complete disconnection in correct sequence. Typical
emergency disconnect sequence would be:
• Blind-shear drill string and/or casing
• Disconnect LMRP
• Close well
v) For the LMRP and associated components such as valves, control system components, sealing
components, elastomeric components, etc., are to be designed with consideration to marine conditions
and external pressure gradient due to rated water depth.
vi) Adapter spools are used to connect drill-through equipment with different end connections, nominal
size designation and/or pressure ratings to each other. Typical applications in a subsea stack are:
• The connection between the LMRP and the lower stack
• The connection between the lowermost BOP and the wellhead connector
vii) Adapter spools for BOP stacks are to meet the following minimum specifications:
• Have a minimum vertical bore diameter equal to the internal diameter of the mating equipment
• Have a rated working pressure equal to the lowest rated end connection of the mating equipment
viii) LMRP structural frame and lifting attachments are to be designed with consideration to all applicable
loading conditions. Applicable structural design code and standard including loading conditions
are provided in 3/3.1.1x) of this Guide.
ix) Mud-gas separator is to be provided with high level sensor (LSH) or equivalent for
notification of diverting flow to overboard or alternate route. Alternate arrangement for
LSH sensor will be specially considered by ABS.
x) Sizing of the mud-gas separator is to be performed in accordance with SPE Paper No.
20430: Mud-Gas Separator Sizing and Evaluation.
3.5.5 Degasser
i) Degasser is to be provided to separate entrained gas bubbles in the drilling fluid which are
too small to be removed by the mud-gas separator.
ii) Degasser is be designed and manufactured in accordance with ASME Section VIII Boiler
and Pressure Vessel Code and Subsection 3/17 of this Guide.
iii) Materials are to be in accordance with Section 6 of this Guide.
iv) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Section 7 of this Guide, as applicable.
v) Typically, the degasser is designed so that it can be operated under partial vacuum to assist
in removing the entrained gas.
vi) Provisions are to be provided to vent gas to the appropriate location.
vii) The drilling fluid inlet line to the degasser is to be placed close to the drilling fluid discharge
line from the poor boy separator to reduce the possibility of gas breaking out of the drilling
fluid in the pit.
3.5.6 Mud Returns
The mud return system includes flowlines, degasser, shale shaker, desilter, desander, agitator, mud
pit, mud tanks, pumps, mixing tanks, hoppers, volume measuring systems, etc.
i) The mud return system, associated equipment and piping systems are to be designed in
accordance with Subsection 3/17 and Section 5 of this Guide.
ii) Piping is to be in accordance with the requirements of Section 5 of this Guide.
iii) Materials are to be in accordance with Section 6 of this Guide.
iv) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Section 7 of this Guide, as applicable.
v) The piping system design is to allow the returns from the flowlines to installed mud
conditioning equipment as listed above to the mud pit.
3.5.7 Gas Vents
i) Vent lines from mud-gas separator are to extend 4 m (13 ft) above the crown block.
ii) The vent system is to be as straight as possible, free of obstructions, and is to be sized and
arranged to minimize backpressure in the upstream equipment of vent line.
iii) A bypass line to alternate locations for safe discharge, such as vent lines, flare or overboard
(port and starboard), as applicable, must be provided in case of malfunction or in the event
the capacity of the mud-gas separator is exceeded.
iv) Overboard lines (port or starboard) are to be directed for discharge in downwind directions
and safe distance away from facility.
3.5.8 Choke and Kill Flexible Lines
i) Refer to the requirements contained in 5/3.7 of this Guide.
ii) End connectors are to be in accordance with the applicable parts of Section 5 of this Guide.
v) When the diverter element close function is activated, the return flow to the mud system
is to be isolated.
vi) The range of diverter elements is to be suitable to seal on all sizes of drill string elements
on which the diverter is required to operate.
vii) A relief valve is required to prevent overpressurization of the diverter packer. If applicable,
the diverter system is to have an interlock system to prevent insert packer closure unless
the insert packer is installed and the insert packer lock-down dogs are energized.
viii) All valves are to be provided with “open” and “close” indicators.
ix) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/19 of this Guide.
3.7.4 Diverter Piping
i) Pipe size, arrangement and support is to be determined with due consideration given to
maximum pressure and maximum reaction loads, erosion resistance and the range of
temperatures likely to be encountered in service.
ii) Discharge pipe slope downward from the diverter valves.
iii) Piping is to run as straight as practicable. Where changes in direction cannot be avoided,
they are to be accomplished by employing targeted tees or elbows fitted with a doubler
plate on the outside radius or elbows with a radius of 20 times the diameter of the pipe.
iv) Flexible lines are to be avoided where possible. When this is not practicable, data is to be
submitted substantiating their suitability for the maximum pressure, maximum reaction
loads, fire-resistance, erosion resistance, expected range of temperatures, and their
compatibility to associated piping provided it is adequately supported and connected.
v) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Section 5 of this Guide.
vi) Materials are to be in accordance with Section 6 of this Guide.
vii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Section 7 of this Guide, as applicable
viii) Suitable pipe supports in accordance with ASME B31.3.
ix) Diverter outlet is to be provided with extra heavy pipe schedule.
v) The design limits or combination thereof for consideration in the design and structural analysis of
the drilling riser system are to consider, but not limited to:
• Maximum stress • Strain
• Maximum deflection or • Temperature
curvature
• Hydrostatic collapse
• Fatigue for service life
• Maximum loading on specific components
vi) The drilling riser loads and load effects are to be considered in the design and structural analysis
of the marine drilling riser system in conjunction with the design limits indicated above. The
marine drilling riser loads effects are categorized as follows:
• Functional, as applicable:
- Nominal top tension - Vessel constraints and/or offsets (DP, moored
installations, etc.)
- Internal pressure
- Internally run tools
- External hydrostatic pressure
- Installation
- Thermal
- Weight of riser
- Vortex-induced vibration (VIV)
- Weight of attachments and/or tubing
- Hang-off
- Weight of tubing contents and annulus fluid
- Inertia
(mud)
• Environmental, as applicable:
- Waves - Vessel motions (DP, moored installations, etc.)
- Wind - Seismic
- Current - Ice
• Accidental, as applicable:
- Small dropped objects - Partial loss of station keeping capability
- Normal handling impacts - Emergency disconnect
- Tensioner failure
vii) The mud boost system is to be provided with safety relief valves capable of protecting system
equipment with the lowest pressure rating, including the marine drilling riser.
viii) Riser make-up and break-up equipment and procedures are to be provided for ABS review.
iii) The fluid end and associated manifolds (suction and discharge) are to be hydrostatically
tested as required by Section 4, Table 1 of this Guide.
iv) Motor couplings and shafting are to comply with a recognized standard and be suitable
for intended service in terms of maximum power and minimum operating temperature.
v) Materials used for discharge manifold components on pumps designated as kill pumps
must also comply with 6/5.3, of this Guide regardless of minimum design temperature
(MDT).
vi) The pumps are to be equipped with suitable vibration (pulsation) dampening devices.
vii) Discharge high pressure piping to comply with ASME B31.3, or equivalent recognized
standard, and Section 5 of this Guide.
viii) The prime movers (electric motor or diesel) are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/21
of this Guide.
9.7.3 Control System for Well Circulation Equipment
i) The control systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/15 of this Guide.
ii) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/19 of this Guide.
iii) All valves are to be provided with “open” and “close” indicators.
11.1 Derricks/Masts
11.1.1 Recognized Codes and Standards
i) Except as provided below, the design and fabrication of drilling derricks/masts are to be in
accordance with API Spec 4F, MODU Rules, and the additional requirements of this Guide.
ii) Alternatively, other recognized standards may be used when agreed to by ABS. When
alternate codes or standards are proposed, comparative analyses are to be provided to
demonstrate an equivalent level of safety to the recognized standards as listed in this Guide
and to be performed in accordance with 1/7.7 of this Guide, on a case-by-case basis.
iii) The following derrick/mast structural components are considered to be primary load-
bearing structure in accordance with the MODU Rules:
• Upper section: crown shaft, main crown beam, main top beams/water table beams
• Lower section: legs, “V” door beams, shoes, and girths
• Main load path structural components
d) For dynamic loading due to motion of the hull are to be provided, as specified
below, by the Owner/Operator or designer as specified in API Spec 4F for
installation, transit, operation, survival condition of the floating units, as applicable.
The above conditions are not to be less than those specified in the MODU Rules,
Steel Vessel Rules, ABS FOI Rules, and ABS FPI Guide.
1) For the calculation of dynamic loading induced by floating hull motion,
the vertical distance and the horizontal distance, where applicable,
between the center of flotation of the host drilling unit and the center of
gravity of the derrick are to be provided by the Owner/Operator to the
derrick designer and are to be used in the calculations.
2) The horizontal distance is to be considered in addition to the vertical
distance in the transit condition for self-elevating drilling units.
3) If motion analysis for floating structure is performed, the appropriate
acceleration data from the analysis are to be provided for ABS review.
11.1.3 Live Loads for Local Structure and Arrangements
i) The arrangement of members is to allow the free drainage of water from the structure.
ii) The following are the minimum vertical live loads that are to be considered in the design
of walkways:
• General Traffic Areas – 4,500 N/m2 (94 psf)
• Working Platforms – 9,000 N/m2 (188 psf)
• Storage Areas – 13,000 N/m2 (272 psf)
iii) It is to be noted that various national and international regulatory bodies have requirements
for the loading, arrangement and construction of local structure such as guardrails, ladders
and walkways. ABS will include in the scope of its design review and fabrication inspection
such requirements, when requested.
11.1.4 Allowable Stresses
i) To prevent excessive stresses in structural members and connections, or buckling, reference
is to be made to the allowable stress limits given in the AISC or other recognized standard.
ii) AISC permits a one-third increase in permissible stress for loading conditions that include
wind loads. Approval to increase AISC-specified stress limits by one-third is to be specially
approved for loading conditions which include loads resulting from wind speeds less than
36 m/sec. (70 knots).
iii) Where the one-third increase is granted, it is to be verified that higher stress levels would
not have resulted from a loading condition where the wind- and motion-induced loads
were ignored and the one-third increase not used. That is, a static hook load analysis is to
be performed without using the one-third increase in allowable stress.
iv) The extent to which fatigue has been considered in design is to be indicated in submitted
design documentation.
v) For allowable stresses in plate structures, refer to 3/11.1.5 of this Guide.
vi) Consideration is to be given in stress calculations to ensure that maximum stress loads
include “Jarring Procedures”.
σeqv, = σ x2 + σ y2 − σ x σ y + 3τ xy
2
where
σx = calculated in-plane stress in the x direction
iv) Zone management principle is to be followed for all hoisting activity in order to provide
additional safety to personnel and collision safeguard associated with drilling activities.
Zone management consideration can be any one or combinations of the following:
• Markings
• Strobe light
• Proximity sensors
• Alarms
v) Drawworks control is to be provided with deceleration parameters for upper and lower
limits for the traveling block/top drive to safely stopping the load.
vi) Drawworks construction is to comply with API Spec 7F for chains and sprockets.
vii) All mechanical load-bearing components are to be in compliance with API Spec 7K.
viii) The mechanical coupling between the drawworks drum and the electromagnetic brake is
to be provided with a system to prevent unintentional disengagement.
ix) Drawworks auxiliary brakes and all other electrical power and control systems are to be
suitable for the intended hazardous area.
x) The diameter of auxiliary brake shafts is to be determined by the following equation:
d = 2.42 6
(bT ) 2 + (mM ) 2 mm d = 0.10 6
(bT ) 2 + (mM ) 2 in.
where
d = shaft diameter at section under consideration, mm (in.)
Y = yield strength (offset = 0.2%, ASTM E-8), kg/mm2 (psi)
b = 0.073 + (19.5/Y) for SI or MKS units
= 0.073 + (27,800/Y) for US units
m = 121/(42.2 + Y) for SI or MKS units
= 172,000/(60,000 + Y) for US units
T = torsional moment at rated speed, kg-cm (lb-in.)
M = bending moment at section under consideration, kg-cm (lb-in.)
xi) For hydrodynamic brake systems, detailed drawings and supporting calculations proving
that the proposed braking system is as effective as other drawworks braking systems are
to be submitted for review.
xii) Electromagnetic dynamic brake systems are to be arranged to prevent inadvertent failure
of the drawworks to suspend the derrick overhead load.
xiii) Electromagnetic systems are to include the following provisions:
a) Cooling water temperature and flow indicators and alarms for abnormal or upset
conditions.
b) An automatically activated emergency stop system capable of applying full braking
torque to stop and lower the full rated load by the application of friction brake or
by connection of the electromagnetic brake to an alternative power supply (back-
up battery or UPS).
c) A system that monitors either electrical faults within the system or the kinetic energy
of the traveling block arranged to actuate the emergency stop system. Where a
fault monitoring system is provided, provisions are to include the following:
1) System must be provided with emergency power source
2) Brake coil current
3) Monitors that initiate emergency stop upon detection of a preset brake
coil current or a brake coil current varying in proportion to the driller’s
control lever position
4) Brake coil leakage current detector
5) Audible and visual alarms at driller’s control panel to indicate when the
limiting parameters of the auxiliary brake have been reached or when the
emergency stop system has been activated.
6) In the case of AC motors using variable frequency drives for braking, an
abnormality in any of the connected drives is to alarm to the driller’s
control station.
d) A manual emergency stop button is to be installed within reach of the driller.
xiv) The control systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/15 of this Guide.
xv) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/19 of this Guide.
11.3.2 Power Swivels, Rotary Swivel, and Top Drives
i) Power swivels, rotary swivel and top drives are devices used to rotate the drill string other
than by means of the rotary table.
ii) Major mechanical load-bearing components are to be in accordance with the requirements
of 3/11.3.4 of this Guide, as applicable.
iii) Pressure-retaining equipment are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of
Subsection 3/17 of this Guide.
iv) The control systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/15 of this Guide.
v) Electrical equipment are to be in accordance with the requirements of Subsection 3/19 of this
Guide.
vi) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Section 5 of this Guide.
vii) Gears and couplings are to comply with AGMA or equivalent and be suitable for their
intended service in terms of maximum power rating, service life and minimum operating
temperature.
11.3.3 Safety Devices and Instrumentation
i) The hoisting equipment is to have a weight indicator installed and the display is to be
easily read from the driller’s console.
ii) A safety device is to be installed to prevent the traveling block from contacting the crown
block. This safety device is to be designed to be fail-safe (i.e., if the sensor is destroyed or
fails, the blocks cease to move).
iii) Testing intervals for the safety devices are to be agreed upon by the Owner/Operator, but
is not to be less frequent than as specified by the drawworks manufacturer.
iv) If override to the uppermost limit of travel is provided, it is to be part of the testing,
accordingly.
vii) Design loads of the crane cylinders are to be the loads applied by the crane boom(s), in
accordance with the design code. Allowable stresses or minimum scantlings are to be in
accordance with ABS Rules or other recognized standard.
viii) Design loading for crane accumulators and crane piping systems is the resultant pressure
as a result of the design loadings from the design code.
ix) Zone management principle is to be followed for all lifting activity in order to provide
additional safety to personnel and collision safeguard associated with drilling activities. See
3/11.3.1iv).
x) The control systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/15 of this Guide.
xi) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/19 of this Guide.
xii) Pressure vessels are to be in accordance with Subsection 3/17 of this Guide.
xiii) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Section 5 of this Guide.
xiv) Materials are to be in accordance with Section 6 of this Guide.
xv) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Section 7 of this Guide, as applicable.
11.5.2 Base-mounted Winches and other Lifting Devices
11.5.2(a) Design Loads. Design loads considered in the design analyses are to include, as
appropriate, the following:
• Recommended single line pull at specified speed, drum size and layers of wire rope.
• Maximum load created by dynamic braking.
• Dynamics created by drilling unit motion (where applicable).
11.5.2(b) Design Standards and Factors of Safety.
i) Bases and other structural steel components are to be designed in accordance with AISC
or other recognized standard. Allowable stress for bending, tension, shear and buckling
are to be as specified herein.
ii) Factors of safety and critical ratios for wire rope, drums, shafts and other parts are as follows:
• Wire rope for lifting application is to be rated in accordance with API Spec 2C.
• Load-carrying member allowable stress is to be no greater than the following:
F = Fcr/1.25 for flat members
= Fcr/1.55 for curved members
Fa = Fy/1.33 Fy/Fu < 0.7
Fa = (Fy + Fu)/3.25 Fy/Fu > 0.7
Fs = 0.577Fa
where
Fa = allowable stress in tension or compression
F = allowable stress for buckling
Fs = allowable shear stress
Fy = material yield stress
Fu = material ultimate stress
Fcr = critical buckling stress
iii) In addition, any combined stresses are not to exceed Fa.
iv) All platforms are to be fitted with sufficient anchoring points for safety harnesses.
v) A non-slip surface is to be provided on the platform, and adequate handrails, midrails and
toe-plates are to be provided in accordance with 5-3-3/1 of the MODU Rules.
vi) The platform is to be fitted with a lock latch mechanism that secures it when it is not in
motion.
vii) Additionally, adequate safety gear of the progressive type is to be provided, and designed
so that it will be engaged within free fall conditions.
viii) Where two-point operation is used, the operator station in the basket is to override the remote.
ix) A safety override at the remote station is to be installed for use in the event that the work-
performing personnel are incapacitated.
11.7.1(c) Hoisting.
i) Hoisting is to be arranged for both raising and lowering of the platform. The arrangement
is not to be such that it is possible to lower the platform by brake only.
ii) Means of lowering the man to the drill floor must be provided that will function in case of
failure of the normal hoisting mechanism.
iii) A speed-controlling device is to be provided which is designed to prevent the raising and
lowering of the platform at speeds in excess of the tripping speed.
iv) The factor of safety for rope or chain is not to be less than 10:1.
v) If rack and pinion systems are used, they are to be designed so that the failure of either a
rack or pinion will not cause the platform to fall.
vi) The hoisting system is to incorporate sufficient rope so that there are at least five (5) full
turns of rope remaining on the winding drum when the platform is at its maximum level.
vii) The equipment associated with the operation of the casing stabbing board is to be
securely anchored to the derrick structure.
viii) The anchorages for rope or chain are to be designed such that they will not be adversely
affected by corrosion.
iii) Loads resulting from vessel motions and wind loads can be established using the procedures
given in API Spec 4F.
iv) The derivation of loading conditions to be used in the design is to give due account of the
operational requirements of the Owner/Operator, and are to reflect both the operational and
stowed modes of the boom.
15 Control Systems
17 Pressure-Retaining Equipment
v) Consideration will be given to arrangements and details of pressure vessels that can be shown to
comply with other recognized codes and standards, provided they provide an equivalent level of
safety to the ASME Code.
vi) The design is also to ensure that stresses due to acceleration forces arising out of the motion of the
installation, stresses due to external nozzle loads and moments, and stresses due to any other
applicable external forces, such as winds, are within the limits allowed by the design code.
vii) All pressure vessels, accumulators, heat exchangers, and separators are to be suitably supported
and properly secured to skid structure or rig floor.
21 Rotating Machinery
iii) Lifting attachment and/or pad eyes, including the attachment to the skid structure are to be designed
in accordance with the requirements of API RP 2A WSD and/or the ABS Guide for Certification
of Lifting Appliances.
iv) Load testing of the lifting attachment and/or pad eyes, including the attachment to the skid structure
is to be performed in accordance with Section 4, Table 1 of this Guide.
1 General
This section provides detailed procedures for ABS approval of typical drilling system, subsystems, equipment,
and/or components for Classification of drilling system, that require design approval and survey in
accordance with Section 4, Table 1.
i) Section 4, Table 1 is provided as a general reference listing, and is not to be considered as the complete
drilling system, subsystem, equipment or component listing.
ii) For drilling systems, subsystems, equipment or components not listed, the designer/manufacturer
is to contact the appropriate ABS Technical office for guidance on the approval process
iii) ABS is prepared to consider alternative design methodology and industry practice for drilling system,
subsystems, equipment, and/or component designs, on a case-by-case basis, with justifications
through novel features as indicated in 1/7.7 of this Guide.
3 Approval Process
ABS approval of drilling systems, equipment, and/or components is to be in accordance with the applicable
codes and/or standards regarding design, fabrication, and testing, and is also to comply with the additional
requirements of this Guide.
i) Drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components, including drilling support systems,
are to be approved according to the following general procedures:
a) Design plans and data are to be submitted in accordance with this section and Subsection
2/7 of this Guide.
b) ABS design review for issuance of the following documents:
1) ABS approval letter
2) Independent Review Certificate (IRC), as applicable (see Section 4, Table 1 of
this Guide)
c) ABS survey during construction and testing at manufacturing plant, as applicable (see 4/3.3.1,
Subsection 8/3, and Section 4, Table 1 of this Guide)
d) ABS survey during installation and commissioning, as applicable (see 4/3.3.2, Subsections 8/5
and 8/7, and Section 4, Table 1 of this Guide)
e) Issuance of reports and certificates (see 4/3.5 and Appendices 3 and 4 of this Guide)
ii) Subsequent approval of individual or unit equipment and/or components can be combined towards
the approval of complete systems or subsystems.
iii) ABS design review, survey, and the issuance of applicable reports or certificates constitute the
ABS Classification of the drilling system inclusive of the subsystems, equipment and components.
iii) Upon issuance of an ABS approval letter, an IRC, and satisfactory completion of the required
testing and survey, a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) will be issued when indicated by
Section 4, Table 1 of this Guide.
iv) The CoC will affirm that, at the time of assessment and/or survey, the systems, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components met the applicable requirements of this Guide with respect
to design, manufacturing and testing, and the additional requirements, if any, specified by
the Owner/Operator, designer or manufacturer.
v) While IRCs are issued for equipment model number, it is to be noted that CoC are issued
for each individual equipment manufactured/fabricated (based on equipment serial number,
as applicable)
vi) Appendix 3 and Appendix 4 of this Guide provide samples of IRC and CoC, respectively.
vii) The contents of the IRC and CoC are to be specific to the equipment and its respective design
parameters.
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Blowout Preventer
Deadman System X X X a a
Equipment
Blowout Preventer
Drilling Spools X X X X X X b1 b2
Equipment
If valid PDA is available, then
Blowout Preventer
Hose Reels (Hydraulic Hoses) X X X X a and b1 a and b2 ABS design review and ABS
Equipment
approval letter are not required
Hydraulic Flexible and Rigid
Blowout Preventer
Piping – Onboard, on Risers and X X X X b1 a and b2
Equipment
on BOP/LMRP Stacks
Blowout Preventer Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU)
X X X X a and b1 a and b2
Equipment including Pumps and Manifold
Blowout Preventer
Spacer Spools X X X X X X b1 b2
Equipment
Blowout Preventer
Test Stump X X X X b1 b2
Equipment
87
88
TABLE 1 (continued)
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Well Control – Subsea and Surface (as applicable) (continued)
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
b1 – Manifold
Choke and Kill Control System/Console/Panel X X X X a and b1 a and b2 If hydraulic or pneumatic
controls, then (b1) and (b2) are
required, as applicable
Choke and Kill Choke and Kill – Connectors X X X X X X a and b1 a and b2 See Note 2
Choke and Kill Choke and Kill – Valves X X X X X X a and b1 a and b2 See Note 2
Choke and Kill – Manifolds
including Buffer Tanks, Chokes,
Choke and Kill X X X X X X a and b1 a and b2 See Note 2
Spools and Valves, Union and
Swivel Joints
Choke, Kill Flexible (Drape)
Choke and Kill Lines – Flexible Lines, X X X X X X a and b1 a and b2 See Note 2
Connectors, End Fittings,
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
89
90
TABLE 1 (continued)
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Marine Drilling Riser
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Accumulators (Welded,
Riser Tensioning Systems X X X X b1 a and b2 Hydraulic or Pneumatic
Seamless)
Riser Tensioning Systems Air/Nitrogen Buffer Tanks X X X X b1 b2
Riser Tensioning Systems Compressors X X X X a and b1 a and c
If hydraulic or pneumatic
Riser Tensioning Systems Control System/Console/Panel X X X X a a controls, then (b1) and (b2) are
required, as applicable
Riser Tensioning Systems Dryers (Nitrogen) X X X X b1 a
Riser Tensioning Systems Hydraulic Cylinders X X X X a and b1 a and b2
Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU)
Riser Tensioning Systems X X X X a and b1 a and b2
91
92
TABLE 1 (continued)
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Drilling String Compensators
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Compensators
If valid PDA is available, then
Drill String Piping System including
X X X X a and b1 a and b2 ABS design review and ABS
Compensators Hydraulic / Pneumatic Hoses
approval letter are not required
Drill String
Pressure Vessels X X X X b1 b2
Compensators
If valid PDA is available, then
Drill String
Sheaves X X X ABS design review and ABS
Compensators
approval letter are not required
If valid PDA is available, then
Drill String
Wire Ropes X X X X e ABS design review and ABS
Compensators
approval letter are not required
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
93
94
TABLE 1 (continued)
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Bulk Storage, Circulation and Transfer System (continued)
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
95
96
TABLE 1 (continued)
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Hoisting, Lifting, Rotating and Pipe Handling (continued)
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
b2 – Before installation of
Pipe Handling Bridge Crane X X X X a and b1 a and b2
mast/derrick
Pipe Handling Catwalk Ramp X X X X a and b1 a and b2 If hydraulic catwalk is installed
Pipe Handling Finger Board X X X X a a Mechanical systems only.
Pipe Handling Monkey Board X X X X a a
Pipe Handling Guide Track and Dolly X X X X a a
Pipe Handling Horizontal to Vertical Equipment X X X X a and b1 a and b2
Pipe Handling Hydraulic or Air Slips X X a and b1 a and b2
Pipe Handling Hydraulic Cathead X a and b2
Pipe Handling Manipulator Arms X X X X a and b1 a and b2
97
98
TABLE 1 (continued)
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Hoisting, Lifting, Rotating and Pipe Handling (continued)
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
at
Equipment Components Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On- Remarks
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
If hydraulic or pneumatic
Miscellaneous Control System/Console/Panel X X X X a a controls, then (b1) and (b2) are
required, as applicable
Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU)
Miscellaneous X X X X a and b1 a and b2
including Pumps and Manifold
Miscellaneous Iron Roughneck X a
Miscellaneous Kelly Spinner X X X X a a
Miscellaneous Manual Tongs for Pipe Handling X
Miscellaneous Power Slips X X X a a
Miscellaneous Power Tongs X X X a
Miscellaneous Tong Suspension X a
Well Test
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
Equipment Components at Remarks
Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On-
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
99
TABLE 1 (continued)
100
Approval Codes for Drilling Systems and Equipment Section
Miscellaneous
4
Testing
ABS ABS Survey Testing
Equipment Components at Remarks
Design Appr. IRC MAC at CoC On-
Vendor
Review Letter Vendor (1, 3) board
Notes:
4
1 If specified “Testing at Vendor” cannot be completed at vendor facility, the specified test(s) can be performed at shipyard or during commissioning.
2 All well control components are to tested “on-board”; first to a low pressure of 1.38 MPa to 2.1 MPa (200 psi to 300 psi) and then to the rated working pressure, as
applicable, (see API RP 53).
3 Applicable to all equipment and components:
a. In addition to the testing specified in Table 1 above, all testing required by design codes and standards are to be performed
a. If prototype testing is required in accordance with the design code, this must be performed independently from item a. above for design verification
Testing Notes:
Types of Testing Conditions of Testing
a Functional Test In accordance with design parameters/design approval
b1 Hydrostatic Test 1.5 times the design pressure, or in accordance with applicable design codes/standards.
b2 RWP Hydrostatic Test At rated working pressure (RWP) of systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components.
c Pneumatic Test In accordance with design codes/standards
d Leak Test Hydrostatic testing to overflow/vent height
101
Section 5: Drilling System Piping
1 General
This section contains general requirements for piping systems and/or associated components that form part
of the drilling systems, as follows:
• Blowout preventer control and closing unit
• Choke and kill
• Diverter
• Well circulation
• Bulk mud and cement: mud processing and conditioning, bulk storage and transfer, cementing, etc
• Well test
• Vent system
• Hydraulic piping: BOP/choke and kill/diverter controls, top drive, pipe handling, cranes, lifting appliances,
transporters, etc.
i) Piping systems that are used for both marine and drilling services such as hydraulic piping, air
piping, seawater service, potable water, power generation, etc., are to be in accordance with Part 4,
Chapter 2 of the MODU Rules.
ii) The manufacturer is to submit to ABS for approval P&IDs, piping specifications, design plans and
data, and calculations for each piping system associated with the drilling systems listed above.
iii) Piping component pressure-temperature ratings are to be in compliance with ASME B31.3, API
Spec 16C, API Spec 16D, API RP 14E and/or other recognized codes/standards, as applicable.
iv) The above requirements are to be used for all drilling system piping and in conjunction with the
specific requirements contained in Section 3 of this Guide for individual subsystems used for
drilling systems.
3 Design Criteria
iii) Pipe stress and flexibility analysis are to be performed in accordance with ASME B31.3
or other recognized design code for all applicable service conditions for the following piping
systems:
• Choke and kill system
• High-pressure mud and cement system
• Main hoisting system (hydraulic)
• Well test piping system (permanent)
iv) Expansion joints are not to be used in high-pressure well control piping systems.
v) When used, expansion joints or bellows in piping systems are to be provided with shields
to prevent mechanical damage and are to be properly aligned and secured.
3.1.2 Service Conditions
The piping design is to account for, relative to the fluid being transported, internal and external
pressures, transient vibrational stresses, fluid velocity and associated erosional effects, hydraulic
hammer, transient temperature excursions, outside imposed impact forces and pressure pulsations,
and low temperature service considerations, as applicable.
3.1.3 Allowances
The design wall thickness of all piping is to account for, as applicable:
i) Mill under-tolerances (12.5% of nominal piping thickness, unless otherwise stated in the
material specification)
ii) Allowances for threads
iii) Corrosion/erosion allowance (unless an effective coating system is applied) is to be in
accordance with specified design code/standard and 2/5.5 of this Guide, as applicable.
iv) Fabrication allowance
3.1.4 Alternative Criteria
i) ABS is prepared to consider other applicable design references, alternative design
methodology and industry practice for piping system and piping component designs, on a
case-by-case basis, with justifications through novel features as indicated in 1/7.7 of this
Guide.
ii) Piping components whose dimensions are not specified by recognized codes/standards,
design details including dimensional drawings, stress calculations and material data are to
be submitted for ABS review and approval.
iii) The extent of NDE, service temperatures, material ductility and special fabrication methods
are also to be considered for alternative design criteria.
vii) Hydraulic hoses utilized for well control functions are to comply with the requirements of
applicable sections of the MODU Rules (for surface hydraulic control hoses only), API
Spec 16D and recognized industry standards, such as SAE, National Fluid Power Association,
as applicable.
viii) All flexible lines and hydraulic hoses are to be accessible for on-site inspection.
3.7.1(b) Drilling System
i) Hydraulic hoses utilized for drilling system control and hydraulic fluid transfer are to
comply with the requirements of applicable sections of the MODU Rules, recognized
industry standards, such as SAE, National Fluid Power Association, as applicable.
ii) Gas decompression is to be considered for all flexible lines and hoses being used for
conditions where gases or vapor can be present at pressure.
3.7.2 Fire Resistance
i) Flexible lines/hydraulic hoses used for well control and are above the water line are to be
fire-resistant.
ii) All flexible lines located in hazardous areas, irrespective of fluid category, are to be fire-
resistant.
iii) Flammable fluids are classified as follows:
• Any fluid, regardless of its flash point, able to support a flame.
• Fuel oil, lubricating oil, and hydraulic oil (unless the hydraulic oil is specifically specified
as nonflammable).
iv) Flexible lines/hydraulic hoses located subsea are not required to be fire-resistant.
v) Hydraulic hoses are also to be in compliance with the applicable requirements of 4-2-1/7.25
of the MODU Rules.
vi) Fire resistance tests of flexible lines/hydraulic hoses are to be in accordance with API
Spec 16C and API Spec 16D, as applicable.
3.7.3 End Connections
End connections for flexible lines are to be designed and fabricated to the requirements of 5/3.1
this Guide and applicable recognized codes and standards.
3.7.4 Isolation Valves
Isolation valves are to be provided to prevent potential uncontrolled release of flowing medium
from flexible lines to minimize the hazard.
3.7.5 Materials
i) Material requirements for flexible lines and hydraulic hoses, including end fittings when
exposed to wellbore fluids or a corrosive/erosive environment, are to be in accordance
with Section 5 and Section 6 of this Guide and applicable design codes and standards.
ii) Nonmetallic materials used in the manufacturing of flexible line and/or hydraulic hose
assemblies are to be suitable for the intended service conditions such as temperature and
fluid compatibility.
5 Materials
Materials are to be in accordance with the applicable design codes and standards referenced in 5/1iii)
above, and Section 6 of this Guide.
5.1 Toughness
Piping component toughness requirements are to be in accordance with Section 6 of this Guide.
1 General
This section provides the requirements in selecting materials for drilling systems and equipment.
All materials are to be suitable for their intended service conditions and defined by recognized material
standard.
5.3 Toughness
5.3.1 Mechanical Load-Bearing Component
i) Toughness testing for mechanical load-bearing components is to be performed in accordance
with relevant API or applicable recognized standards.
ii) Charpy V-Notch (CVN) impact testing is to be performed at the required temperature in
the relevant API or applicable standard or the minimum design temperature (MDT),
whichever is lower.
iii) For a specified MDT above 0°C (32°F), Charpy V-Notch impact testing is to be performed
at 0°C (32°F).
iv) The absorbed energy requirement is to be in accordance with the relevant API or applicable
recognized standard.
v) Material for mechanical load-bearing components not covered by, or not in full compliance
with API standards or applicable recognized standards, the following Charpy V-Notch criteria
applies:
a) For materials with a specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) of 450 MPa (65 ksi)
or below:
1) SMYS (N/mm2)/10 = Minimum Absorbed Energy (ave) (J)
b) For materials with a SMYS greater than 450 MPa (65 ksi) and less than or equal to
690 MPa (100 ksi)
1) Minimum Absorbed Energy (ave) = 45 J (33 ft-lb)
c) For materials with a specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) of greater than
690 MPa (100 ksi), Charpy V-Notch properties are to be submitted for ABS
review and consideration.
vi) Other CVN criteria or alternative test data, such as crack-tip opening displacement (CTOD),
nil ductility transition (NDT) temperature, or related service experience will be considered
if submitted to ABS prior to manufacturing.
vii) It should be noted that other national and international regulatory bodies may have additional
requirements for toughness. ABS will include these additional toughness requirements in
the scope of the design review and fabrication inspection, as applicable, and/or as requested.
5.3.2 Pressure-Retaining Equipment and Piping
i) Toughness testing for pressure-retaining equipment and piping is to be performed in
accordance with the relevant API, ASME or applicable recognized standard.
ii) Toughness testing procedures, size, locations and retesting (as applicable) are to be in
accordance with the applicable recognized standard.
iii) Charpy V-Notch (CVN) impact testing is to be performed at the required temperature in
the relevant API, ASME or applicable standard or the minimum design temperature (MDT),
whichever is lower.
iv) For a specified MDT above 0°C (32°F), Charpy V-Notch impact testing is to be performed
at 0°C (32°F).
v) The absorbed energy requirement is to be in accordance with the relevant API, ASME or
applicable recognized standard.
vi) Materials for pressure-retaining equipment not covered by, or not in full compliance with
API, ASME or applicable recognized standards, the following Charpy V-Notch criteria
applies:
a) For materials with a specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) of 450 MPa (65 ksi)
or below:
1) SMYS (N/mm2)/10 = Minimum Absorbed Energy (ave) (J), but not less
than 27 J.
b) For materials with a SMYS above 450 MPa (65 ksi) to 690 MPa (100 ksi):
1) Minimum Absorbed Energy (ave) = 50 J (39 ft-lb)
2) In addition, lateral expansion opposite the notch is not to be less than
0.38 mm (0.015 in.).
c) For materials with a SMYS above 690 MPa (100 ksi), Charpy V-Notch properties
are to be submitted for consideration.
1) In addition, lateral expansion opposite the notch is not to be less than
0.38 mm (0.015 in.).
vii) Other CVN criteria or alternative test data, such as crack-tip opening displacement (CTOD),
nil ductility transition (NDT) temperature, or related service experience will be considered
if submitted to ABS prior to manufacturing.
viii) It should be noted that other national and international regulatory bodies may have additional
requirements for toughness. ABS will include these additional toughness requirements in
the scope of the design review and fabrication inspection, as applicable, and/or as requested.
7 Fabrication Considerations
7.1 Welding
Welding of drilling equipment and/or components is to comply with the following requirements:
i) Welding is to be in accordance with the specified design/manufacturing code and Section 7 of this
Guide.
ii) Generally, weldments subject to H2S service are not to exceed a hardness of 22 Rockwell C in weld
metal or heat-affected zone (HAZ), see NACE MR0175/ISO 15156.
7.3 Forming
Forming of materials utilized in drilling equipment and/or components are to comply with the following
requirements:
i) In general, for steel components, forming at temperatures around 205°C (400°F) is to be avoided.
ii) Where degradation of properties is unavoidable, complete post forming heat treatment may be
required.
iii) Suitable supporting data is to be provided to indicate compliance with the specified properties.
iv) For materials with specified toughness properties that are to be formed beyond 3% strain* on the
outer fiber, data are to be provided indicating that the toughness properties meet the minimum
requirements after forming.
v) After straining, specimens used in toughness tests are to be subjected to an artificial aging treatment
of 288°C (550°F) for one hour.
* For details, see 2-4-1/3.13 of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2).
9.1 General
Wrought and cast products are to be procured in accordance with written specifications that, in addition to
property requirements, specify the frequency, location, orientation and types of test specimens.
Specific nondestructive examination requirements may be required for some product forms. See 7/11.3 of
this Guide.
9.5 Forgings
Forged products are to be supplied in a fully worked condition to assure a wrought microstructure and internal
soundness. A forging reduction ratio of not less than 3:1 will be considered as meeting this requirement.
Where a net change in the cross section does not occur during a portion of the forging operation, the hot-
working ratio representing that portion will be evaluated as a complement to the forging reduction ratio.
9.7 Castings
In general, cast products are to be supplied in a heat-treated condition. Samples for testing are to be taken
from integrally cast coupons or appropriately designed separately cast coupons.
These coupons are to be subjected to the same heat treatment as the casting.
11 Sealing Materials
13.1 Materials
All materials used for pressure-retaining equipment, mechanical load-bearing components, and load-bearing
equipment are to be furnished with documentation that states the process of manufacture and heat treatment,
together with chemical analysis and tests that were applied according to recognized standards.
Test coupons are required for each heat treatment for verification of mechanical properties to the manufacturer’s
written specification and/or industry standards.
13.3 Traceability
Traceability through the manufacturing process is to be documented on major mechanical load-bearing
components and pressure-retaining equipment. The manufacturers are responsible for maintaining this
documentation on file and, upon request, are to provide this information to ABS.
The traceability documentation is to include:
i) Certified Materials Test Report
• Chemical and mechanical properties for each heat
• Heat treatment temperatures and time at temperature
• Charpy impact values and temperatures
• Hardness test readings (as applicable to NACE MR0175/ISO 15156)
ii) Manufacturing Processes
• Welding records with all approved qualifications
• Post weld heat treatment
• NDE results
• Hardness test results (as applied to NACE MR0175/ISO 15156)
• Dimensional check results
• Hydrostatic pressure tests
1 General
All welds in the pressure boundary of pressure-retaining equipment and piping systems and welds in
mechanical load-bearing and structural components are to be made using approved welding procedures by
qualified welders and are to be inspected utilizing approved procedures by qualified technicians.
i) Critical sections of primary components are to be examined for surface and volumetric flaws to
the extent specified in the design code, but not to a lesser extent than that specified in this section.
ii) The Surveyor is to be satisfied that all welders and welding operators to be employed in the
manufacturing of equipment are properly qualified and experienced in the work proposed.
iii) The Surveyor is also to be satisfied as to the employment of a sufficient number of skilled supervisors
to ensure a thorough supervision and control of all welding operations.
iv) Inspection of welds employing methods outlined in this section is to be carried out to the satisfaction
of the Surveyor.
3 Specifications
Welding Procedure Specification (WPS), corresponding Procedure Qualification Record (PQR), and
Nondestructive Examination (NDE) procedures are to be submitted for review as part of the design submittal
as required in Subsection 2/7 and Section 4, Table 1 of this Guide.
i) WPS, PQR and NDE procedures are to be developed in accordance with the requirements of the
selected design codes for the drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components for the
intended service.
ii) The requirements and extent of NDE are to be in accordance with the requirements of the selected
design codes for the drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components.
iii) Where welding equipment and consumables have not been used previously at the manufacturer’s
facility or are outside of the essential variable limits defined in the existing WPS or if specifically
requested by the attending Surveyor, the WPS is to be qualified by welding procedure qualification
process in the presence of the Surveyor.
iv) The qualification process may require the submittal of relative WPS and supporting PQRs to the
ABS Technical office for review and agreement.
11 Nondestructive Examination
All weldments and other critical sections covered under Subsection 7/1 of this Guide are to be subjected to
100% visual examination and nondestructive examination for surface and volumetric defects in accordance
with this Guide or the relevant design code.
Examinations are to be carried out after any postweld heat treatment.
vi) Welds of structural members considered to be secondary are to be inspected by the ultrasonic or
radiographic method on a random basis.
vii) In locations where ultrasonic test results are not considered reliable, the use of magnetic-particle
or dye-penetrant inspection as a supplement to ultrasonic inspection is to be conducted.
viii) Welds for mechanical load-bearing components or pressure-retaining equipment are to be examined
by nondestructive methods capable of detecting and sizing significant surface and internal defects.
13 Record Retention
The manufacturer(s) is to maintain the following records after completion, and these records are to be
made available to the Surveyor upon request:
i) Weld Procedure Specification
ii) Procedure Qualification Records
iii) Welder/welding operator performance test records, including the date and test results and identification
of work assigned to each welder
iv) A record providing traceability and capable of identifying the welders who have carried out welding
on particular part
v) Qualification records for all personnel performing nondestructive examinations and evaluating
results of examination
vi) Nondestructive Examination records, including radiographs (the manufacturer is to provide a suitable
viewer to properly illuminate radiographs)
1 General
This section pertains to surveys of drilling system, subsystem, equipment, and/or components at the vendor’s
manufacturing plant and their installation onboard the drilling unit for system build-up and completion for
final trials prior to commencement of drilling operations.
• To review records of post-weld heat treatment, in particular for piping subjected to pressurized
sour service and subject to NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 requirements
• To verify dimensions are as shown on approved drawings
• To check dimensional tolerances and alignment of mating surfaces
• To witness prototype testing of drilling equipment or components in accordance with the
applicable API requirements. For drilling equipment of an existing design, documentation of
prototype testing is to be made available to the Surveyor for consideration.
• To witness pressure and/or proof-load testing of equipment and as a unit, as applicable and as
specified in the fabrication procedures
• To witness final testing and functional testing of subassemblies and completed units, as specified
in the fabrication procedures
• To verify all purged and pressurized systems, motor controllers, SCR banks, consoles and
instrumentation and control panels are in compliance with approved drawings
• To carry out other inspections as agreed upon during prefabrication meeting
• To review and approval final manufacturing Data Book and issue final survey report or CoC
accordingly, and confirm compliance with associated ABS approval letter or IRC.
iii) The materials test report (MTR) of the following components is to be made available to the attending
Surveyor during the manufacturing process. In general, materials associated with equipment and/or
components that require Surveyor’s attendance in accordance with Section 4, Table 1, are to have
complete traceability with MTR’s. As a minimum, MTR’s are to be provided for the following:
• Materials of pressure-retaining components
• All bolts and nuts for fastening
• Materials of primary load-bearing parts.
• All piping, valves and fittings with an ANSI B16.5 Class 150 or greater
4) Brake verification: After the brake burnishing test (item 3 above), individual
verification of each caliper is to be performed, as applicable, under drum/motor load.
• Motor amperage and voltage, hydraulic pressure, and loads, as applicable,
associated with caliper slippage are to be monitored and recorded.
• Each caliper must demonstrate adequate capacity as designed.
5) Dynamic/Performance brake holding test: Performed at 100% rated load for a
period of at least 5 minutes for the primary brake. This test is to include, but not
limited to, the following:
• Drawwork is to stop its rotation within the timeframe as specified in the
approved OEM’s specifications, including the specified applied voltage and
amperage
• Monitor and confirm brake holding capability including the caliper pressure,
as specified in the approved OEM’s specification.
• Monitor and record caliper pressure, temperature, and fluid flow.
• Visual inspection of brakes and hydraulic leakage are to be performed.
This test may be carried out by using a reduced number of lines with corresponding
rated load and in accordance with the drawworks approved OEM’s testing
procedures/specifications.
6) Emergency brake test: Simulate loss of hydraulic supply or primary brake failure
Verify hydraulic, or air release spring set is functional. This test is to be performed
at 100% rated load.
7) Electromagnetic brake test: Electromagnetic braking system tests are to be
performed for compliance with approved OEM’s specifications. Additional
provisions of the drawworks electromagnetic braking system are provided in
3/11.3.1xiii).
b) On self-elevating units, deflection testing of the cantilever may also qualify as the static
and structural testing of drawworks. Additional brake testing is required to be performed
in accordance with 8/5viii)a) above, as applicable.
c) On column-stabilized or surface type units, where a full rated load test may constitute
increased risk or a safety concern to the unit or personnel, alternative testing methods
such as load testing at a reduced number of lines with corresponding rated load may be
considered on a case-by-case basis. Request for such consideration is to be submitted to
ABS and agreed upon prior to commencement of the test.
ix) Equipment associated with all hoisting, lifting, rotating, and pipe handling systems are part of the
drilling system Classification and are to be tested in accordance with Section 4, Table 1 of this
Guide.
x) All drilling systems and equipment are to be checked for proper operation.
xi) Control system and shutdowns are to be tested to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
xii) All wiring and electrical connections are to be checked for continuity and proper workmanship in
accordance with the MODU Rules.
xiii) The database developed and completed during construction is to be verified for correctness,
amended as required, and endorsed as being part of the onboard ABS documentation, and used as
long as the drilling system is maintained under ABS Classification.
xiv) The completed burner assembly is to be pressure-tested from the flexible line connection flange to
the burner head. The adequacy of the boom’s slewing and topping gear is to be demonstrated by
testing after the boom’s installation on the drilling unit. The details of the test procedure are to be
agreed upon with ABS and witnessed by a Surveyor.
x) Satisfactory functioning of all drilling systems installed onboard and covered under this Guide.
This will include witnessing proper function of the following systems, as applicable, while simulating
actual drilling operations to the extent possible and practicable, and to the satisfaction of the attending
Surveyor:
• Well control system
• Marine drilling riser system
• Drill string compensation system
• Bulk storage, circulating and transfer system
• Hoisting, lifting, rotating and pipe handling system
• Well test system
• Miscellaneous support systems
xi) Satisfactory testing of all ROV intervention functions on the subsea BOP stack during the stump
test and testing at least one set of rams in initial test to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
xii) Satisfactory functional testing of autoshear, deadman, and EDS systems on the subsea BOP stack
during the stump test to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
xiii) Starting up of the permanent well test system, if applicable, including precautions taken to eliminate
the risk of explosion or fire.
xiv) Post-commissioned drilling system is in stabilized and satisfactory functioning order for duration
of at least 12 hours.
xv) Satisfactory functioning of the emergency power equipment to ensure proper operations.
1 General
The provisions of this section are requirements for the maintenance of Classification of the drilling systems.
These requirements are in addition to the provisions noted in other ABS Rules such as Part 6 of the MODU
Rules.
i) All surveys (annual and special periodical) are to be carried out in accordance with an ABS agreed
In-Service Inspection Program (ISIP) plan developed by the Owner/Operator for periodical inspection
and testing of the overall drilling system.
ii) The ISIP plan is to explain how each system and equipment is to be examined and tested during
annual and special periodical survey.
iii) Maintenance records of the drilling system, including the ABS-issued MRNs, are to be part of the
record kept onboard the drilling unit.
iv) When ABS is authorized to perform surveys on behalf of a governmental authority, or when requested
by the Owner/Operator, items as specified by the governmental authority or Owner/Operator will be
surveyed. Reports indicating the results of such surveys will be issued.
v) For purposes of this section, the commissioning date of the drilling system will be the date on
which a Surveyor issues an Interim Class Certificate for the drilling unit with the CDS notation.
v) Examination of all mounting hardware and the structure of base-mounted winches and other lifting
devices. Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) may be carried out as deemed necessary by the attending
Surveyor.
vi) General external examination so far as accessible of the drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and
components as noted in 1/7.5 f of this Guide or damage, excess corrosion, fracturing or malfunctions.
vii) Protective covers, insulation, shrouds and protective guards around moving parts are to be found
in place and in functional condition.
viii) Derrick walkways and ladders, drill floor and drill system machinery spaces to be surveyed with
particular attention to fire and explosion hazards and confirmation that emergency escape routes
are not blocked.
ix) External examination of pressure vessels and their appurtenances, including safety devices,
foundations, controls, relieving gear, piping systems, flexible lines/hydraulic hoses, insulation and
gauges.
x) Examination of safety shutdown devices.
xi) General examination of all electrical and instrumentation systems, including protective devices
and cable supports.
xii) Examination of mud and cement systems.
xiii) Examination of the BOP test log and maintenance records.
xiv) Testing of the BOP equipment in accordance with API RP 53:
• Pressure and functional testing
• Control system testing
• Pressure testing if any shear rams were used in an emergency.
xv) Review BOP inspections and maintenance records in accordance with Section 17 (surface BOP’s)
and/or Section 18 (subsea BOP’s) of API RP 53.
x) Close examination of the condition of welded joints on the derrick and associated structure, including
nondestructive testing (including thickness gauging if required) of any suspect areas noted by the
attending Surveyor.
xi) Examination of the equipment associated with the well control system and their maintenance records.
xii) Satisfactory functioning of the emergency power equipment to ensure proper operation.
API
Bul 16J Comparison of Marine Drilling Riser Analysis
RP 2A-WSD Planning, Designing and Constructing Fixed Offshore Platforms – Working Stress
Design
Spec 2C Offshore Pedestal Mounted Cranes
RP 2X Ultrasonic and Magnetic Examination of Offshore Structural Fabrication and
Guidelines for Qualification of Technicians
Std. 4A Steel Derricks
Spec 4F Drilling and Well Servicing Structures
Spec 5D Drill Pipe
Spec 6A Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment
Spec 6AV1 Verification Test of Wellhead Surface Safety Valves and Underwater Safety Valves
for Offshore Service
Spec 7-1 Rotary Drill Stem Elements
Spec 7B-11C Internal Combustion Reciprocating Engines for Oil Field Service
Spec 7F Oil-Field Chain and Sprockets
Spec 7K Drilling and Well Servicing Equipment
Spec 8A Drilling and Production Hoisting Equipment
Spec 8C Drilling and Production Hoisting Equipment
Spec 9A Wire Rope
RP 9B Application, Care, and Use of Wire Rope for Oil Field Service
Spec 12J Oil and Gas Separators
Spec 12K Indirect-type Oil-Field Heaters
Spec 14A Subsurface Safety Valve Equipment
RP 14B Design, Installation, Operation and Redress of Subsurface Safety Valve Systems
RP 14C Analysis, Design, Installation and Testing of Basic Surface Systems on Offshore
Production Platforms
RP 14E Design and Installation of Offshore Production Platform Piping Systems
RP 14F Design and Installation of Electrical Systems for Fixed and Floating Offshore
Petroleum Facilities for Unclassified and Class I, Division 1 and Division 2
Locations
RP 14FZ Design and Installation of Electrical Systems for Fixed and Floating Offshore
Petroleum Facilities for Unclassified and Class I, Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2
Locations
RP 14G Fire Prevention and Control on Fixed Open Type Offshore Production Platforms
RP 14J Design and Hazards Analysis for Offshore Production Facilities
Spec 16A Drill Through Equipment
Spec 16C Choke and Kill Systems
Spec 16D Control Systems for Drilling Well Control Equipment and Control Systems for
Diverter Equipment
Spec 16F Marine Drilling Riser Equipment
RP 16Q Design, Selection, Operation and Maintenance of Marine Drilling Riser Systems
Spec 16R Marine Drilling Riser Couplings
RP 16RCD Specification for Drill Through Equipment – Rotating Control Devices
RP 17A Design and Operation of Subsea Production Systems – General Requirements
and Recommendations (ISO 13628-1)
RP 17B Flexible Pipe
Spec 17D Subsea Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment (ISO 13628-4)
Spec 17E Subsea Production Control Umbilicals (ISO 13628-5)
Spec 17F Subsea Production Control Systems (ISO 13628-6)
Spec 17J Unbonded Flexible Pipe
Spec 17K Bonded Flexible Pipe
RP 17G Design and Operation of Completion/Workover Riser Systems
RP 17H Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV) Interfaces on Subsea Production Systems
(ISO 13628-8)
RP 53 Blowout Prevention Equipment Systems for Drilling Operations
RP 59 Well Control Operations
RP 64 Diverter Systems Equipments and Operations
RP 500 Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum Facilities
Classified as Class I, Division 1 and Division 2
RP 505 Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum Facilities
Classified as Class I, Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2
Std. 520 Sizing, Selection, and Installation of Pressure-Relieving Systems in Refineries,
Part I – Sizing and Selection
Std. 521 Pressure Relieving and Depressuring Systems
Std. 610 Centrifugal Pumps for Petroleum, Petrochemical and Natural Gas Industries
Std. 2000 Venting Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks
RP 2003 Protection Against Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning and Stray Contents
ASME
B31.3 Power Piping
Section V Nondestructive Examination
Section VIII, Div. 1 Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels
Section VIII, Div. 2 Alternative Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels
ASTM
A388 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Heavy Steel Forgings
E8 Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
E10 Standard Test Methods for Brinell Hardness of Metallic Materials
E18 Standard Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness and Rockwell Superficial Hardness
of Metallic Materials
E92 Standard Test Method for Vickers Hardness of Metallic Materials
E94 Standard Guide for Radiographic Testing
E165 Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Inspection
E186 Standard Reference Radiographs for Heavy Walled (2 to 4.5 in.) (51 to 114 mm)
Steel Castings
E280 Standard Reference Radiographs for (4.5 to 12 in.) (114 to 305 mm) Steel Castings
E428 Standard Practice for Fabrication and Control of Steel Reference Blocks Used in
Ultrasonic Inspection
E446 Standard Reference Radiographs for Steel Castings up to 2 in. in Thickness
E609 Standard Practice for Casting, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless Steel,
Ultrasonic Examination Thereof
E709 Standard Recommended Practice for Magnetic Particle Examination
AWS
D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel
IEC
61508 Functional Safety of Electrical/Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-
Related Systems, Part 1 - 6
IEEE
C37.06.1 Guide for High Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on Symmetrical Current Basis
Designated “Definite Purpose for Fast Transient Recovery Voltage Rise Times”
C37.20.6 4.76 kV to 38 kV Rated Ground and Test Devices Used in Enclosures
Std. 45 Recommended Practice for Electrical Installations on Shipboard
Std. 142 Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems
Std. 242 Recommended Practice for Protection and Coordination of Industrial and
Commercial Power Systems
ISO
19901-1 Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries – Specific requirements for offshore
structures – Part 1: Metocean design and operating considerations-First Edition
NACE
MR 0175/ISO 15156 Materials for use in H2S containing environment in oil and gas production
NFPA
70 National Electrical Code
496 Standard for Purged and Pressurized Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
SAE
J517 Hydraulic Hoses
This affidavit is prepared by the undersigned, authorized representative of the manufacturer, to certify
that the equipment described above and supplied for this order is in full compliance with respect to the
design, assemble, manufacture, and testing of the equipment in accordance with the referenced code(s),
standard(s) or specification(s), and is suitable for the intended use in accordance with the referenced design
parameters.
This affidavit is prepared by the undersigned, authorized representative of the manufacturer, to certify
that the equipment described above is in compliance with the requirements of the ABS “Guide for the
Classification of Drilling Systems”, and is enclosed as part of the equipment delivery/shipment documents.
Signature
Name :
Title :
Date :
This is to certify that the design plans and data for the manufacture of the equipment listed below has
been reviewed and found to be in compliance with the specified codes, standards, or specifications, and the ABS
Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems.
By:
ABS Engineer
Principal Engineer
Offshore Engineering Department – Machinery Group
This certificate is a representation that the structure, item of material, equipment, machinery or other item covered by this certificate has met one or more of the Rules,
Guides standards or other criteria of ABS or of a National Administration and is issued solely for use by ABS, its committees, its clients or other authorized entities. The
validity, applicability and interpretation of this certificate is governed by the Rules and Standards of ABS, and ABS shall remain the sole judge thereof. Nothing contained in
this certificate or in any notation made in contemplation of this certificate shall be deemed to relieve any designer, builder, owner, manufacturer, seller, repairer, operator or
other entity of any warranty express or implied.
RELATED CORRESPONDENCE:
This certificate is a representation that the structure, item of material, equipment, machinery or other item covered by this certificate has met one or more of the Rules,
Guides standards or other criteria of ABS or of a National Administration and is issued solely for use by ABS, its committees, its clients or other authorized entities. The
validity, applicability and interpretation of this certificate is governed by the Rules and Standards of ABS, and ABS shall remain the sole judge thereof. Nothing contained in
this certificate or in any notation made in contemplation of this certificate shall be deemed to relieve any designer, builder, owner, manufacturer, seller, repairer, operator or
other entity of any warranty express or implied.
CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY
Certificate No.: Independent Review Certificate
ABS OPN / PID: _______________ IRC No.: _________________
Date: ________________________ Issue Date: _______________
This is to certify that the undersigned Surveyor has surveyed the following equipment in accordance
with the ABS Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems.
Details of survey :
________________________
ABS Surveyor
NOTE: This Certificate evidences compliance with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of American Bureau of Shipping and is issued solely for the use of
the Bureau, its committees, its clients or other authorized entities. This Certificate is a representation only that the structure, item of material, equipment, machinery or any
other item covered by this Certificate has met one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of American Bureau of Shipping as of the date of issue. Parties
are advised to review the Rules for the scope and conditions of classification and to review the survey records for a fuller description of any restrictions or limitation on the
vessel’s service or surveys. The validity, applicability and interpretation of this Certificate is governed by the Rules and standards of American Bureau of Shipping who shall
remain the sole judge thereof. Nothing contained in this Certificate or in any notation made in contemplation of this Certificate shall be deemed to relieve any designer,
builder, owner, manufacturer, seller, supplier, repairer, operator or other entity or any warranty express or implied.