US 2010.

0025,044A1
(19) United States
(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2010/0025044 A1
McKay et al. (43) Pub. Date: Feb. 4, 2010
(54) SUBSEAWELL INTERVENTION SYSTEMS Publication Classification
AND METHODS (51) Int. Cl.
(75) Inventors: Thomas Kean McKay, Spring, TX fit 2.5 CR
(US); Michael J. Bednarz, Katy, ( .01)
TX (US) (52) U.S. Cl. ......................................... 166/359; 166/339
Correspondence Address:
CAROL WILSON (57) ABSTRACT
BPAMERICAINC. Systems and methods for well intervention include a lower
MAIL CODE5 EAST, 4101 WINFIELD ROAD riser package (LRP), and an emergency disconnect package
WARRENVILLE, IL 60555 (US) (EDP). The LRP includes a tree connector, a connector and
seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a LRP body; the tree connector
(73) Assignee: BP CORPORATION NORTH has a profile formating to the CSSA. The CSSA has at least
AMERICA INC., Warrenville, IL one seal stab assembly for fluidly connecting with a Subsea
(US) tree. The body of the LRP includes one or more sealing
elements that are capable of sealing upon command, an inte
(21) Appl. No.: 12/511,471 gral annulus with an annulus isolation valve, an upper hub
1-1. profile compatible with the EDP and a lower flange profile
(22) Filed: Jul. 29, 2009 that mates with the CSSA. The EDP includes a quick discon
Related U.S. Application Data nect connector, at least one annulus isolation valve, and one or
more sealing elements that are capable of sealing upon com
(60) Provisional application No. 61/085,043, filed on Jul. mand. In some embodiments, an internal tie-back tool con
31, 2008. nects to the EDP via an EDP internal tie-back profile.

1. 2OO
Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 1 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1
Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 2 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1

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Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 3 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1
Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 4 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1

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Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 5 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1

-400
Installing the EDP/LRP stack on an end of a marine riser 4O2

Deploying the EDP/LRP stack subsea on a subsea tree 4O4

Deploying an internal riser tie-back string with ITBT 4O6

Connecting the internal riser tie-back string to a surface 4O8

Landing the ITBT in the upper spool of the EDP and 41 O

Performing a well intervention operation on the well using 4 12

Fig. 4
Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 6 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1
Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 7 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1

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Patent Application Publication Feb. 4, 2010 Sheet 8 of 8 US 2010/002SO44 A1

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US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

SUBSEAWELL INTERVENTION SYSTEMIS tubing riser to surface. The tubing annulus bridge is generally
AND METHODS cylindrical and has first and second concentric elements
which are of different lengths. The interior longer element
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED and the outer and shorter length element define an annular
APPLICATIONS cavity which opens at the top end of the bridge to register with
an aperture disposed in the bottom of the tubing hanger run
0001. This application claims domestic priority benefit ning/tree cap intervention tool. This aperture is closeable by a
under 35 U.S.C. S 120 from applicant's provisional patent sleeve which is hydraulically actuatable to move longitudi
application Ser. No. 61/085043, filed Jul. 31, 2008, which is nally within an annular cavity so as to cover or uncover the
fully incorporated herein by reference. aperture.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
0008. It would be advantageous if a well intervention sys
tem and method could be developed that meets or exceeds the
0002 1. Technical Field prior art systems and methods, and is also less complicated in
0003. The present disclosure relates in general to well operation and less costly to manufacture and rent than exist
control and intervention methods and systems. More particu ing prior art systems and methods. The systems and methods
larly, the present disclosure relates to well control and inter of the present disclosure are directed to these needs.
vention methods and systems used for well completion, flow SUMMARY
testing, well stimulation, well workover, diagnostic well
work, bullheading operations, plugging wells and/or aban 0009. In accordance with the present inventive disclosure;
doning wells, where subsea trees or wellheads are installed. well intervention systems and methods have been developed
In an embodiment, these systems and methods are deployed which reduce or overcome many of the limitations and faults
using a slickline, e-line, coiled tubing or jointed tubulars, for of previously known systems and methods. In certain
example. embodiments of in the invention, the systems and methods
0004 2. Background Art may also be riserless.
0005. The Current practice for well control and interven 0010. A first aspect of the disclosure is a marine riser well
tion for wells completed with horizontal subsea trees is to use intervention tie-back system comprising:
a Subsea Test Tree (SSTT) system. For vertical subsea trees a 0.011 a) a lower riser package (LRP) comprising a tree
Completion Work-Over Riser (CWOR) system is typically connector, a connector and seal stab adapter (CSSA),
used. SSTT and CWOR systems are complicated mechani and a lower riser package body (LRP body), the tree
cally, and not readily available. The rental cost per well inter connector comprising an upper flange having a gasket
vention for a SSTT is approximately SUS 5 million to 10 profile formating to a lower end of the CSSA, the CSSA
million whereas the purchase cost for a CWOR, which is not comprising at least one seal Stab assembly on its lower
typically rented, is SUS 55 million to $75 million. end for fluidly connecting to a subsea tree, the LRP body
0006 U.S. Pat. No. 6,053,252 discloses an intervention comprising one or more LRP sealing elements that seal
apparatus that is said to essentially replicate the pressure upon command and/or that are capable of sealing upon
control functions of a blowout preventer (BOP) stack. The command (i.e., have the ability to seal upon command),
intervention package consists of five main parts: a lower first for example, upon a control signal initiated by a human
wellhead connector which connects to the exterior of the tree operator. In certain embodiments, the LRP sealing ele
mandrel; a cylindrical housing formed of lower housing and ments may include, but are not limited to, a shearing ram
upper housing and which define an internal diameter which is (comprised of a shearing/cutting element fitted with
substantially the same as the tree mandrel interior diameter; hardened tool blades designed to cut), a sealing ram
an upper second tree connector, a Sub-sea test tree with two (comprised of hydraulically and/or pneumatically oper
ball valves located within the upper part of the housing and ated sealing rams), a shearing ram and sealing ram
also within the upper connector, and a proprietary tree cap (separate rams that independently shear or seal) or a
intervention tool disposed in the lower part of the housing and shearing-sealing ram (a ram that both shears and seals),
the top part of the first connector. The housing parts are and further optionally a gate valve, a ball valve, or
coupled together by a circular connector clamp such as a another type of valve, or another shearing ram and seal
Cameron clamp and the top connector is coupled to a stress ing ram or a shearing-sealing ram, or a combination
joint which forms the bottom end of the tubing riser; the stress thereof, and an integral annulus with at least one annulus
joint also receives coiled tubing. isolation valve, the LRP body comprising an upper hub
0007 As explained U.S. Pat. No. 6,053,252, after testing profile compatible with an emergency disconnect pack
the pressure integrity of the system, the test tree valves are age (EDP) connector and a lower flange profile that
opened, a wireline tool is run to pull the plug from the tree cap fluidly mates or connects with the CSSA;
and a second run is made to pulla plug from the tubing hanger. 0012 b) an emergency disconnect package (EDP)
Wireline can be run if needed, for example to insert a valve to removably connected to the LRP, the EDP comprising a
facilitate flow or to provide a logging function. Communica body (EDP body) having a quick disconnect connector
tion with the Surface through the annulus is a complicated on its lower end, one or more EDP Sealing elements (in
procedure achieved by running a tubing annulus bridge on a certain embodiments this may be an inverted blind
wireline. This allows an annulus port inside the horizontal shearing ram that cuts and retains fluid from above), and
tree to be connected to an annulus void within the intervention at least one annulus isolation valve, the EDP body hav
package while being separated from the main bore, thus ing an internal tie-back profile;
allowing control of the annulus for various functions such as 0013 c) an internal tie-back tool (ITBT) removably
pumping or stimulation operations via the crossover facility connected to the EDP body via the internal tie-back
in the tree cap running tool, the annulus port and the coiled profile; and
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

0014 d) a collapse-resistant flexible hose fluidly con 0022 c) connecting the pressure containing tubulars to
necting the LRP to subsea tree. a surface flow tree;
0.015. In an embodiment, the disconnect feature of the 0023 d) landing the ITBT in an EDP body, and locking
EDP can be initiated by an operator, where the conditions are the ITBT to the EDP body; and
appropriate, for example, when there are dangerous drilling, 0024 e) performing an intervention operation on the
completion, diagnostic well work, work-over operations, or well using the EDP/LRP, ITBT, and pressure containing
dangerous well or operating conditions, or a malfunction in tubulars.
the dynamic positioning system of a rig (if present), or pos 0025 Well intervention operations may proceed via slick
sible impending weather conditions that warrant leaving the line, e-line, coiled tubing, or jointed tubulars (provided the
area, such as approaching storms or hurricanes, for example. Surface arrangement includes a hydraulic workover unit).
0016 Further in an embodiment, it is the same ram that Methods of this inventive disclosure may be used for inter
shears and seals. In another embodiment the ram that shears is ventions such as, but not limited to, well completion, well
different from the ram that seals. Additionally in an embodi clean-up, flow testing, well workover, well stimulation, diag
ment, the rams are sets i.e., opposing pairs. Also in an nostic well work, bullheading operations, to kill or shut-in a
embodiment, the shearing ram and sealing ram and/or the well, and for plugging wells and/or abandoning wells.
shearing-sealing ram are operated hydraulically but, for 0026 Certain system embodiments may comprise the
example, can also have a mechanical override that is operated combination of an EDP/LRP stack with a subsea lubricator
by an ROV. for example. section and adapter to enable methods of riserless well inter
0017. In certain embodiments, the system comprises an vention using a slickline or e-line from a Multi-Support Rig
existing marine riser, an existing riser mandrel connecting the (MSR).
marine riser to an existing flexible joint, the flexible joint 0027 Certain other system embodiments may comprise
connected to the body of the EDP and a pressure containing the combination of an EDP/LRP stack with an open water
tubular inserted through these components and matingly con completion workover riser system comprising a tapered stress
nected to the internal tie-back profile of the EDP using an joint, riser joints, a surface tension joint, Surface termination
internal tie-back tool. The combination of the ITBT and pres joints and Surface tree. These systems can be deployed from
Sure containing tubulars provides a pressure containment sys a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) or a WorkOver
tem from subsea to surface. The ITBT locks and seals into the Vessel (WOV) to permit well intervention methods using a
EDP body through weight-set, rotation, or pressure assist slickline, e-line, coiled tubing, or jointed tubulars. These
means or through ROV intervention. In certain embodiments, methods may be used for interventions such as, but not lim
the system further comprises a hose connecting an existing ited to, well clean-up, flow testing, well stimulation, diagnos
marine riser adapter to an annulus isolation valve on the EDP. tic well work, bullheading operations, killing or shutting-in a
In certain embodiments one hose connects a kill or choke line well, for plugging wells and/or abandoning wells.
of the marine riser to an integral annulus isolation valve (52A 0028. The systems and methods described herein may pro
in FIG. 3). This hose, in conjunction with the flange gasket vide other benefits, and the methods for well intervention are
profile and integral annulus (86 in the FIG. 3), provides pro not limited to the methods noted; other methods may be
duction bore containment and an annulus path for circulation employed.
purposes via the body of the EDP. The collapse-resistanthose 0029. These and other features of the systems and methods
connecting the LRP body to the subsea tree provides a circu of the disclosure will become more apparent upon review of
lation path via the tree using either the choke or kill line. In the brief description of the drawings, the detailed description,
another embodiment, the collapse-resistant hose may be and the claims that follow.
eliminated if the tree CSSA incorporates another seal stab
assembly that can interface with another suitable profile BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
within the subsea tree. Yet other systems of the present dis
closure may comprise one or more rams (for example, 0030 The manner in which the objectives of this disclo
inverted blind shear rams) in the EDP. sure and other desirable characteristics can be obtained is
0018 Systems within the present disclosure may take explained in the following description and attached drawings
advantage of existing components of an existing BOP stack, in which:
such as flexible joints, riser adapter mandrel and flexible 0031 FIG. 1A is a schematic side elevation view of one
hoses including the BOP's hydraulic pumping unit (HPU). system embodiment within the present disclosure, with FIG.
Also, the subsea tree's existing Installation WorkOver Con 1B illustrating some details of some prior art Surface system
trol System (IWOCS) umbilical and HPU may be used in components useful in practicing methods in conjunction with
conjunction with a Subsea control system comprising an systems within this disclosure;
umbilical termination assembly (UTA), a ROV panel, accu 0032 FIG. 2A illustrates schematically a side elevation
mulators and Solenoid valves, acoustic backup Subsystems, a view, partially in cross-section, of a prior art BOP system, and
Subsea emergency disconnect assembly (SEDA), hydraulic/ FIG. 2B illustrates schematically a side elevation view of a
electric flying leads, and the like, or one or more of these system embodiment in accordance with the present disclo
components Supplied with the system. Sure;
0019. Another aspect of the invention is a method of well 0033 FIG. 3 illustrates schematically a more detailed side
intervention, the method comprising: elevation view, partially in cross-section, of one system
0020 a) deploying an EDP/LRP stack subsea on a sub embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure;
sea tree connected via ROV to a well, the EDP/LRP 0034 FIG. 4 illustrates a logic diagram of a method of
stack being on the end of a marine riser, using the embodiment of FIG.3:
0021 b) deploying pressure containing tubulars with an 0035 FIGS.5A, 5B and 6 are schematic illustrations of
ITBT attached thereto through the marine riser; three other system embodiments within the invention; and
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

0036 FIG. 7 illustrates schematically a prior art acoustic able to close over or seal a connection made to a well (and not
deadman package useful in the systems and methods of this close over the well, per se). Such as during well intervention
disclosure. operations.
0037. It is to be noted, however, that the appended draw 0049 Inverted blind shear ram (also sometimes referred to
ings are not to scale and illustrate only typical embodiments in the art as blind shearing rams, shearing blind rams or
of this disclosure, and are therefore not to be considered SBRs)—as used and defined herein, the term inverted blind
limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other “shear ram' or “shearing ram' refers to a shearing or cutting
equally effective embodiments. Identical reference numerals element fitted with hardened tool steel blades designed to
are used throughout the several views for like or similar cut/shear a pipe (and/or something else) when the valve or
elements. BOP is closed; a shear ram is normally used as a last resort to
regain pressure control of a well that is flowing; a blind shear
DETAILED DESCRIPTION ram has no space for pipe and is instead blanked offin order
to be able to close over a well that does not contain a drillpipe:
0038. Definitions inverted blind shear rams can be used in order to retain fluids
The following terms as used herein may be defined as follows: or pressure situated above the inverted blind shear ram.
0.039 Tubulars—as used herein, the term tubulars 0050 Integral annulus—as used and defined herein, the
includes tubing or system of tubes, tubulars, pipes, pipelines, term integral when referring to an annulus, refers to an annu
flowlines, and the like used for holding or transporting any lus that is cast or machined into an EDP or LRP body, as the
liquids and/or gases, and any incidental particulate matter or case may be, and the term annulus refers to the space between
Solids, from one location to another. two substantially concentric objects (or between two substan
0040 Bullheading operations—as used herein, the term tially concentric regions of an EDP body or LRP body), such
bullheading or bullheading operations is defined to mean and as between the wellbore and casing, or between casing and
include: the act of forcibly pumping fluids into a formation, tubing, where fluid can flow.
and such formation fluids have entered the wellbore during a 0051 Integral annulus valve—as used herein, the phrase
well control event. Bullheading may be performed if normal “integral annulus valve' refers to a valve having an integral
circulation cannot occur. Such as after a borehole collapse. annulus that eliminates a costly wireline operation to use and
Further, bullheading is risky: the primary risk is that a drilling remove an annulus plug.
crew has no control over where the fluid goes, and can cause 0.052 Mandrel—as used and defined herein, the term
a broach that has the effect of fluidizing and destabilizing the mandrel refers to a tool component that grips or clamps other
subsea floor. tool components.
0041 Emergency shutdown (ESD) controller—as used 0053. Multi-Support Rig (MSR) as used herein, the term
and defined herein, the ESD controller is comprised of a Multi-Support Rig (MSR) includes drill ships, vessels, plat
controller that facilitates or is capable of initiating an emer forms, spars, semi-submersibles, floating systems, or other
gency shutdown. structures that float or which are known to one skilled in the
0042 Emergency quick disconnect (EQD) controller—as art to be useful for drilling, completion, diagnostic well work,
used and defined, herein, the EQD controller is comprised of work-overs, bull-heading, maintenance, plugging, abandon
a controller that facilitates or is capable of initiating an emer ment, or shut-ins of wells, for example.
gency quick disconnect of the involved components. 0054 Pressure containing tubulars—as used and defined
0043 Emergency disconnect package (EDP)—as used herein, the term pressure containing tubulars refers to the
herein, the term Emergency disconnect package (EDP) pro ability of a tubular to convey a pressurized fluid to or from the
vides a way of disconnecting the pressure containing riser EDP/LRP stack as desired by an operator. In one example, the
from the LRP in an emergency, or when the rig is obliged to internal pressure of the pressure containing tubulars may be
move off location due to inclement weather, leaving the LRP as high as 15 Ksi (103 MPa), for example, and may also have
higher or lower pressure ratings.
and tree closed in on the seabed, for example. 0055 Profile—as used and defined herein, the term profile
0044) “Emergency disconnect package (EDP)/lower riser refers to the outermost shape, view, or edge of an object.
package (LRP) stack’ or “EDP/LRP stack’ as used herein, 0056 Quick disconnect connector—as used herein, the
the phrase emergency disconnect package (EDP)/lower riser term quick disconnect connector is comprised of a connector
package (LRP) stack or EDP/LRP stack, means and includes that facilitates or is capable of initiating a quick disconnect of
the combination of the emergency disconnect package (EDP) the involved or currently connected components or parts.
with the lower riser package (LRP) stack. 0057. Shearing-sealing ram—as used herein, the term
0045 Internal tie-back tool (ITBT)—as used and defined “shearing-sealing ram' or “shear-sealing ram' refers to a ram
herein, the internal tie-back tool is a tool comprising a distal that has the ability to shear or cut pipe (or something else) and
end region that matingly connects the pressure containing then seal in one closure, or in one step. One or more shearing
tubular to the internal tie-back profile of the EDP body. sealing rams may be used.
004.6 Flange—as used and defined herein, the term flange 0058. In the following description, numerous details are
refers to an external or internal rib or rim. set forth to provide an understanding of the disclosed methods
0047 Internal tie-back profile—as used and defined and apparatus. However, it will be understood by those skilled
herein, the term internal tie-back profile refers to the shape of in the art that the methods and apparatus may be practiced
an internal region defined by the EDP body that matingly without these details and that numerous variations or modi
connects to the corresponding distal end region of the internal fications from the described embodiments may be possible.
tie-back tool. 0059 All phrases, derivations, collocations and multi
0048 Inverted blind sealing ram (or inverted sealing blind word expressions used herein, in particular in the claims that
ram) refers to a blind sealing ram that is installed so that it is follow, are expressly not limited to nouns and verbs. It is
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

apparent that meanings are not just expressed by nouns and wellhead connector 36. The wellhead 30 and mud line 32 are
verbs or single words. Languages use a variety of ways to also illustrated. The BOP stack at 34 is typically 43 feet (13
express content. The existence of inventive concepts and the meters) in height, although it can be more or less depending
ways in which these are expressed varies in language-cul on the BOP design, and of course, such BOP stacks which are
tures. For example, many lexicalized compounds in Ger of other heights are contemplated to also be useful in this
manic languages are often expressed as adjective-noun com invention.
binations, noun-preposition-noun combinations or 0063. In contrast, embodiment 200 illustrated schemati
derivations in Romantic languages. The possibility to include cally in FIG. 2B includes two main components, the LRP 70
phrases, derivations and collocations in the claims is essential and the EDP 80, which together in an embodiment have a
for high-quality patents, making it possible to reduce expres height 90 of about 18.5 feet (5.6 meters). Ofcourse, the use of
sions to their conceptual content, and all possible conceptual Such components which are of other heights are contemplated
combinations of words that are compatible with such content to also be useful in this invention. Embodiment 200 includes
(either within a language or across languages) are intended to an umbilical 40, sometimes referred to as an “Installation
be included in the used phrases. WorkOver Controls System”umbilical, or “IWOCS”umbili
0060. As noted above, marine riser well intervention tie cal herein, which connects to an umbilical termination assem
back systems and methods have been developed which bly 48, which in turn connects with hydraulic fluid lines 50
reduce or overcome many of the limitations or faults of pre and 56 (a portion of line 56 is hidden in this view by line 50)
viously known systems and methods. and electrical flying lead 51. Line 50 in turn connects to a
0061 The primary features of the systems and methods of hydraulic control system 54. A flexible hose 42, such as made
the present disclosure will now be described with reference to from a high Strength, flexible material Such as that known
FIGS. 1-6, after which some of the operational details will be under the trade designation COFLONTM or other high
explained. The same reference numerals are used throughout strength, flexible material known to a skilled artisan, connects
to denote the same items in the figures. The systems and the kill or choke line connection 21 to an annulus control
methods disclosed herein can be used in one or more opera valve 52 in EDP 80. COFLONTM is a trademark of Coflexip
tions related to well completion, flow testing, well stimula Corporation, Paris, France. In this embodiment, the one or
tion, well workover, diagnostic well work, bullheading opera more EDP Sealing elements are comprised of an inverted
tions, plugging wells and/or abandoning wells where Subsea blind shearing ram and an inverted blind sealingram or shear
trees or wellheads are installed. In accordance with the ing-sealing ram 44, and quick release connector 46 complete
present disclosure, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, a typical subsea EDP 80 in this embodiment. Further in this embodiment, the
intervention set-up includes a compensated hook 1, a bail LRP 70 includes one or more LRP sealing elements, com
winch 2, bails 4, elevators 5, a surface flow tree 6, and a coiled prising a lower shearing ram and sealing ram or a shearing
tubing or wireline BOP9, all above a drill floor 10 of a Mobile sealing ram set 58 and a lower isolation valve 60, which may
Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU not shown). These compo be a gate valve or other valve. In other embodiments, lower
nents are known to skilled artisans and require no further isolation valve 60 could be replaced by a second shearing ram
explanation. Other existing components include marine riser and sealing ram or a second shearing-sealing ram set. The
tensioners 12, a marine riser 16 which protrudes through the shearing element may cut wireline, e-line, coiled tubing, and
sea surface 14 down through the sea to a riser mandrel 18, jointed tubulars, and the like. Further other sealing elements
flexjoint 20 (also referred to herein as a flexible joint), a known to one skilled in the art that provide metal to metal
subsea tree 26, and wellhead 30, which are also known to sealing faces, with or without secondary elastomeric backup
skilled artisans. Components contributed by the systems and can be used as the LRP sealing elements and/or EDP Sealing
methods of the present disclosure include pressure containing elements in the embodiments disclosed herein.
tubulars 8, an emergency disconnect package (EDP) 22, and 0064 FIG. 3 illustrates schematically, partially in cross
a lower riser package (LRP) 24. The lower riser package section, a more detailed side elevation view of one system in
provides a hydraulic interface between the tree assembly and accordance with the present disclosure. Embodiment 300 of
the EDP. The internal tie-back string 8, EDP 22, LRP24 and FIG. 3 illustrates in detail EDP 80 and LRP 70, as well, as
other components and their operation are more fully internal riser 62 connected to an internal tie-back tool (ITBT)
explained in reference to FIGS. 2-6. FIG. 1B illustrates more 64. In an embodiment, the EDP80 includes a body 81 having
details, such as marine riser tensioners 7, choke line 11, kill a quick disconnect connector 88 on its lower end, an upper
line 13, IWOCS reel 15 and IWOCS umbilical 40, ESD inverted blind shearing ram 68, the EDP body 81 having an
(emergency shutdown) controller 29 and EQD (emergency internal tie-back profile 83 formating with a distal end region
quick disconnect) controller 31, IWOCS MCS (master con of ITBT 64. In an embodiment, the body of the EDP and/or
trol station)/HPU 33, a chemical injection (CI) unit 35, a the LRP is a body that is capable of pressure containment and
hydraulic line 23 and reel 25. The reels 15 and 25, HPU 27, can also accommodate, contain, hold, or house pressure con
MCS/HPU 33, and C135 may be on a deck 3 of a MODU. trol or sealing elements, such as valves, rams, or shearing
0062 Prior to delving into details of systems and methods elements (in certain embodiments the shearing and sealing
of the present disclosure, it is helpful to compare one system functions may be performed by the same element). In a fur
of the disclosure to a previously known, conventional BOP ther embodiment, the EDP body and/or the LRP body may be
stack. A conventional BOP stack is illustrated in side eleva comprised of a spool body. Embodiment 300 includes first,
tion, partially in cross-section, in FIG. 2A, and one system second, and third annulus control gate valves 52a, 52b, and
embodiment 200 within the disclosure is depicted in FIG.2B. 52c, respectively, in a valve block 71. Flexible hose 42 con
The conventional BOP stack is connected to a marine riser 16, nects the kill or choke line 21 with first annulus control gate
a riser adapter or mandrel 18 having kill and choke connec valve 52a.
tions 19 and 21, respectively, and a flexjoint 20. The BOP 0065. The LRP70 includes abody 73, a connector and seal
stack 34 typically comprises a series of rams 38a-e, and a stab adapter (CSSA) 76, and a tree connector 74. Tree con
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

nector 74 comprises an upper flange 61 a having a gasket from a Multi-Support Rig (MSR). A schematic representation
profile that mates with CSSA 76 and a lower end 61b for of such an embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 5A as embodi
connecting to a subsea tree 26. CSSA 76 comprises at least ment 500. Wellhead 30 connected to a subsea tree 26 are not
one seal stab assembly 77 on its lower end for fluidly con considered parts of the inventive systems and methods. Sub
necting with Subsea tree 26, and an upper flange and gasket sea tree 26 connects with an EDP 70, which in turn is con
profile 79 for mating with the LRP body 73. The body 73 nected to an LRP80, as described in more detail in FIG. 3. In
includes a lower sealing ram 58 and a lower isolation valve Some embodiments, the quick disconnect connector may be
60, a lower flange 91 having a profile formatingly connecting locked out by an ROV or other device. Embodiment 500
with upper flange 79 of CSSA 76, and an upper flange 63 differs from embodiment 300 of FIG.3 by having a lubricator
having same profile. The LRP body 73 mates with the EDP 92 fluidly connected to LRP80 by an adapter 90, allowing a
body 81 through a quick disconnect connector 88. Embodi wireline or slickline 93 to access the well. Lubricators and
ment 300 includes a collapse-resistant hose jumper 78 that suitable adapters are known in the art, but their combination
fluidly connects tree 26 with another gate valve 84 for flow with an EDP/LRP in accordance with this disclosure is not
circulation through integral annulus 86, as well as a pressure heretofore known. One subsea lubricator and systems and
and temperature measuring unit 82. In an embodiment, the methods for circulating fluids in a Subsea lubricator are dis
pressure and temperature measuring unit 82 is mounted to the closed in published Patent Cooperation Treaty patent appli
body of the LRP. In an embodiment, the pressure and tem cation number PCT/NO00/00318, published Apr. 12, 2001,
perature measuring unit is flange-mounted to the body. incorporated herein by reference for it disclosure of subsea
0066. The details of subsea tree 26 are not considered part lubricator devices. Other lubricator devices may be used.
of the systems and methods disclosed herein; Subsea trees are FIG. 5B illustrates an additional embodiment 510, compris
known to skilled artisans. For complete disclosure, however, ing the same components as embodiment 500 of FIG.5A, but
the components and their reference numbers listed in Table 1 replacing adapter 90, lubricator 92, and wireline or slickline
are illustrated in FIG. 3. In addition, a crossover conduit 92 93, with an adapter 150 and coiled tubing 152. Embodiment
and production conduit 94 are depicted. 510 allows for a variety of well interventions to be carried out
0067 FIG. 4 illustrates a logic diagram of a method on the Subsea well, including, but not limited to, well clean
embodiment 400 within the invention. Embodiment 400 up, flow testing, well stimulation, well workover, diagnostic
depicts in box 402 installing the EDP/LRP stack on an end of well work, bullheading operations, killing or shutting-in a
a marine riser, the LRP including a connector and seal stab well, and for plugging wells and/or abandoning wells.
adapter (CSSA). The adapter is important because it allows 0069. As illustrated in FIG. 6, certain other system
the systems and methods disclosed herein to be used on embodiments may comprise the combination of an EDP/LRP
numerous Subsea trees, providing additional well interven stack (80, 70) such as described herein with an open water (or
tion flexibility not seen in previously known EDP/LRP “open sea) completion workover riser (CWOR) system 250,
stacks. Next in box 404, the method comprises deploying the such as available from FMC Technologies, Houston, Tex.,
EDP/LRP stack Subsea on a subsea tree connected to a well. and other Subsea equipment Suppliers. These workover riser
In the next step, box 406 pressure containing tubulars with systems may comprise a variety of joints and tension systems,
ITBT attached thereto is deployed through the marine riser. surface termination joints and a surface tree 204. Suitable
Next in box 408, the pressure containing tubulars is connected joints and tension systems include, but are not limited to a
to a surface flow tree, followed by landing the ITBT into the tapered stress joint 206, riser joints 208, and surface tension
internal body of the EDP and locking the ITBT to the EDP joints 210. These joints and tension systems are engineered
body (box 410). Lastly in embodiment 400, a well interven on a project specific basis for overall length, wall thickness
tion operation is performed on the well using the EDP/LRP, and taper length. For example, they may comprise fatigue
ITBT, and pressure containing tubulars (box 412). resistant compact flanges and threaded riser connections, and
may be constructed from Steel open die forgings and designed
TABLE 1. for high fatigue applications, high fracture toughness and
large bending moments. Suitable tension joints 210 include,
Subsea Tree Components but are not limited to simple fixed lock-off tensioner systems,
Subsea Tree Component Name Reference Numeral or more exotic hydro-pneumatic tensioner systems, either
“pull-up' (as depicted schematically at 210) or “push-up”
AAV—Annulus Access Valve 26a. type. The fixed lock-off types may comprise upper and lower
AIV Annulus Isolation Valve 26b passive load rings interfacing with electronic load cells allow
ACV-Annulus Circulating Valve 26c
AWV—Annulus Wing Valve 26d ing for access and maintenance, and may include adjustment
AMV Annulus Master Valve 26e nuts allowing for riser tension adjustment. These systems
AVV—Annulus Vent Valve 26f may be deployed from a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit
PMV Production Master Valve 26g
PWV Production Wing Valve 26h
(MODU) 200 (as depicted in FIG. 6) or from a WorkOver
PCV Production Choke Walve 26i Vessel (WOV) 202 to permit well intervention methods using
PIV Production Isolation Valve 26 a slickline, e-line, coiled tubing (212) or jointed tubulars.
PTT Pressure Temperature Transducer
XOV Crossover Valve
26k
26m
These methods may be used for interventions such as, but not
CT4–Chemical injection valve 26n
limited to, well completion, well clean-up, flow testing, well
stimulation, diagnostic well work, bullheading operations,
killing or shutting-in a well, and for plugging wells and/or
0068. As mentioned previously, certain system embodi abandoning wells.
ments may comprise the combination of an EDP/LRP stack 0070. In accordance with the present disclosure, a primary
with a subsea lubricator section and adapter to enable meth interest lies in using one or more of the methods and systems
ods of riserless well intervention using a slickline or e-line described above to perform a well intervention operation on a
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

subsea well. The skilled operator or designer will determine tic deadman package such as illustrated Schematically in FIG.
which system and method described herein is best suited for 7, illustrating acoustic transceivers 101 and 103 and an acous
a particular well and formation to achieve the highest effi tic control unit 105.
ciency, safest, and environmentally sound well intervention 0074. One subsea system embodiment within the disclo
without undue experimentation. Sure may comprise the following components:
0071 Systems and methods of the present disclosure may 0075 an ROV-operated tree connector. In an embodi
be used to complete, workover and/or plug and abandon wells ment, the ROV-operated tree connector is an 1834 inch
when a subsea tree is used. Systems described herein replace (47.6 cm) diameter, 15 Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rated
the need to use Subsea Test Trees (SSTT) or open water ROV-operated tree connector that interfaces with either,
Completion Workover Riser (CWOR) systems, although as for example, a Super Heavy Duty H4 (SHD-H4) (27
mentioned they may be used in conjunction with systems and inch or 30-inch OD) (68 cm or 76 cm OD) connection
methods described herein. The main driver behind the profile, e.g. made by Vetco Gray, or DWFC, e.g. made by
described systems is to deliver a well intervention system that FMC profiles. Other parts and components of other
is simpler, safer, reliable and more cost effective than the sizes, diameters, dimensions and of other pressure-rat
alternative SSTT and CWOR well intervention systems cur ings that are known to one skilled in the art, or are
rently in use. The systems of the present disclosure primarily commercially available, or are compatible with other
use existing and proven equipment repackage to achieve the commercially available components can also be used;
required functionality to ensure well control during any well 0.076 a connector and sea stab adapter comprising at
completion, intervention or plug and abandonment operation. least one seal stab assembly that fluidly connects with
Certain systems and methods of the present disclosure the tree connector and production bore of the subsea tree
involve deploying a Subsea well control package onto a Sub (a specific connector and seal stab adapter will be
sea tree using a MODU’s existing marine riser and tensioning required for each unique combination of tree connector
system. Since systems of the disclosure may be deployed type and subsea tree production bore profile, and skilled
from a floating vessel with dynamic positioning capability, artisans will readily be able to engineer Such adapters
the Subsea package advantageously includes an emergency having the benefit of this disclosure);
disconnect feature. 0.077 a LRP body comprising a blind shearing ram and
0072. In embodiments wherein the LRP/EDP has been sealingramora shearing-sealingram and isolation valve
landed and tested, a high pressure internal tie-back String is (or another set of blind shearing rams and sealing rams
run within a riser and locked into the EDP, this arrangement or another set of blind shearing-sealing rams) in the
provides a high pressure conduit from the well bore to the production bore with annulus access. In an embodiment,
Surface and is protected by the marine riser. This configura the LRP body is comprised of a 7/16 inch. (17.9 cm)
tion is expected to provide a wider environmental operability diameter, 15 Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rated blind shear
window than other well intervention systems and provides the ing-sealing rams or a blind shearing ram and sealing
ability to circulate the contents of the riser and subsea tree ram. The upper profile has a hub profile with concentric
using the marine riser's choke or kill line being used. The gasket profiles that provide production bore contain
existing hydraulic conduit Supply and riser boost lines of the mentandanannulus path that connect to either the choke
marine riser may also be used. The hydraulic conduit Supply or kill lines, respectively, via the EDP body. In an
may be used to feed hydraulic pressure to the subsea control embodiment, the hub profile has 7-inch and 11-inch
circuits and the riser boost may be used to circulate the annu (17.8 cm and 27.9 cm) gasket profiles. Other parts and
lus (i.e., to force a fluid into the main bore which then circu components of other sizes, diameters, dimensions and of
lates back up into the annulus to e.g. remove hydrocarbons, other pressure-ratings that are known to one skilled in
debris, cuttings, and the like) between the internal tie-back the art, or are commercially available, or are compatible
string and marine riser. The internal tie-back String is Sup with other commercially available components can also
ported at the surface by the rig's block (i.e., the active heave be used. A high collapse-resistant hose with ROV hot
draw works or crown motion compensator) connected via a stab or Multi Quick Connect (MQC) plate connects the
Surface tree, bails and elevators. LRP body to the subsea tree and provides another desir
0073 Suitable control systems for use in implementing able circulation path via the tree using either the choke or
systems and methods described herein may be simple hydrau kill line. Both the LRP body, connector and seal stab
lic/electric/mechanical configurations that may use a combi adapter and connector are considered to be the Lower
nation of the drilling riser's hydraulic conduit line and spare Riser Package (LRP):
lines within an existing IWOCS umbilical, or, if not available, 0078 an EDP body with Quick Disconnect connector
then an appropriate umbilical and reel may be supplied as a (QDC) and an inverted blind shearing and sealing rams
part of the inventive systems. The hydraulically actuated and internal tieback profile in the production bore; iso
shearing ram and sealing ram or a shearing-sealing ram and lation valves with a wing block which provide annulus
isolation valves may be functioned by piloting Subsea sole flow paths. In an embodiment, the Quick Disconnect
noid valves via dedicated spare lines in the IWOCS umbilical. connector (QDC) is 7/16 inch (17.9 cm) in diameter,
The solenoid valves when piloted will direct pressurized fluid with a 15 Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rating, and the isola
from local accumulators to the corresponding valve, ram or tion valves are 2/16 inch (5.2 cm) in diameter, with a 15
connector actuator. The local Subsea accumulators may be Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rating. In an embodiment, the
supplied hydraulic pressure via the drilling riser's hydraulic lower profile has concentric gasket profiles compatible
conduit line. Emergency shut-in and disconnect may be with the upper profile flange. In an embodiment, the
achieved by direct electric or acoustic signal. In an embodi lower profile has concentric 7-inch and 11-inch (17.8 cm
ment, the emergency shut-in and disconnectare initiated by a and 27.9 cm) gasket profiles. In an embodiment, the
human operator. The acoustic signal may be part of an acous upper profile has an 18%-inch (47.6 cm) diameter, 15
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rated flange. Other parts and tree connector before riser tensions are set. Tree interface
components of other sizes, diameters, dimensions and of tests will take place before the ROV makes-up both hydraulic
other pressure-ratings that are known to one skilled in and electrical flying leads to the tree.
the art, or are commercially available, or are compatible I0088. The high pressure internal tie-back string tool is
with other commercially available components can also then deployed and landed out with the EDP. Before being
be used. The choke or kill line that terminates on the riser
adapter (existing component from BOP stack) are con landed out, the internal string is connected to the Surface
nected to annulus access valves via flexible COFLONTM Flow Tree's (SFT's) transition joint (already picked up)
hoses. The integral body, annulus wing block and the through the use of the riser crossoverjoint with easy make-up
QDC are considered the Emergency Disconnect Pack hub connector assembly. Also, the SFT will have rig flexible
age (EDP) in this embodiment; hoses made-up and tested before land out. The ROV will then
0079 an internal tie-back tool (ITBT) and riser string, lock the tie-back tool to the EDP body. This is followed by
which locks and seals into the EDP body through ROV Verifying interface through pressurizing the production bore
intervention; via the rig's pumps. Both surface and Subsea valves are then
0080 a flexjoint, riser adapter mandrel and flexible aligned and the riser's contents (sea water) will then be dis
hoses (may be existing components of the subsea BOP placed to completion fluid. Depending on tree type, this dis
stack); placement may also include circulating through the tree. Both
I0081 a subsea control system comprising an umbilical the EDP barrier (i.e., the seal between the tie back and the
termination assembly (UTA), ROV panel, accumulators EDP) and the LRP well barrier can then be pressure tested for
and Solenoid valves, acoustic backup, Subsea emergency integrity. At this juncture, the system is ready for well bore
disconnect assembly (SEDA), and hydraulic/electrical intervention via slickline, e-line, coiled tubing or jointed
flying leads: tubulars (provided the Surface arrangement includes a
I0082) a Surface Flow Tree (SFT) with integral hydrau hydraulic workover unit). Alternatively, the system may be
lically actuated gate valves on the Vertical run with non used to clean-up, flow test or stimulate a well, diagnostic well
integral hydraulically actuated gates valves on the side work, or could be used for bullheading operations, to kill or
outlets. In an embodiment, the integral hydraulically shut-in a well, and for plugging wells and/or abandoning
actuated gate valves are 7/16 inch (17.9 cm) in diameter, wells.
with a 15Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rating on the vertical I0089. In the event systems of this disclosure are required
run, with non-integral hydraulically actuated gates
valves 3/16-inch (7.8 cm) in diameter, with a pressure to be safely shut-in, this can be initiated from any ESD sta
rating of 15 Ksi (103 MPa). The valve outlets may be tion, and, depending on the situation, may involve a Subsea
equipped with elbows and hubs for connection to flex shut-in and/or emergency disconnect. When a Subsea shut-in
ible hoses. In an embodiment, Cameron #6 Hubs may be and emergency disconnect is required, a sequence closure of
used for connection to flexible COFLONTM hoses. A the shear rams, isolation (gate) valves and connector discon
pressure transmitter may be incorporated into the verti nect will take place. Local hydraulic accumulators are used to
cal production bore. In an embodiment, a pressure trans assist shear ram closure and connector disconnect. The dis
mitter is incorporated via a 2/16-inch (5.2 cm) diameter, connect time may be less than 45 seconds and the EDP will be
15 Ksi (103 MPa) pressure-rated API blind flange. The automatically picked up vertically since the riser tension will
tree may have a casing elevator neck sized to the upper have been previously set to provide sufficient overpull and
flange profile. In an embodiment, the tree may have a clearance at the LRP/EDP disconnect point while remaining
13%-inch (34 cm) diameter casing elevator neck and a within the riser's anti-recoil limits. When disconnected, the
7/16-inch (17.9 cm) diameter, 15 Ksi (103 MPa) pres riser contents may be displaced before the EDP is relanded
Sure-rated upper flange profile. Other parts and compo and connected by the ROV. In certain riserless intervention
nents of other sizes, diameters, dimensions and of other embodiments, wherein the well intervention operation com
pressure-ratings that are known to one skilled in the art, prises using a well bore intervention device selected from the
or are commercially available, or are compatible with group consisting of a slickline and an e-line Such as embodi
other commercially available components can also be ment 500 of FIG.5A, in the event the well needs to be safely
used. The lower profile may have a transition joint that shut in, a sequence of closure steps is carried out using, in
terminates with an easy makeup hub connector, order, cutting the well bore intervention device using the EDP
I0083 Riser crossover joint which interfaces with the (such as a shear ram), and sealing the LRP (Such as by use of
internal tie-back String to the Surface tree's transition a valve or ram). There is no need to disconnect the EDP in
point; riserless interventions.
I0084 IWOCS HPU (existing). This component may 0090 The systems and methods disclosed herein can be
have to be modified to interface with a SFT via a deck used in one or more operations related to well completion,
jumper and the rig's emergency shutdown and/or pro flow testing, diagnostic well work, well stimulation, well
cess safety systems; workover, bullheading operations, plugging wells and/or
I0085 IWOCS umbilical reel (existing); and abandoning wells where subsea trees or wellheads are
I0086 an ESD (emergency shutdown) and EQD (emer installed. Further advantageous features of the inventive sys
gency quick disconnect) stations that shall enable auto tems and methods are:
matic Surface and/or Subsea shut-in and/or emergency 0.091 a greater operating envelope, which is not limited
disconnect of the riser. to I degree flex joint angles;
I0087. When deployed subsea with IWOCS umbilical and 0092 the incorporation of blind shears capable of cut
drilling riser, the drilling operator will land out the LRP/EDP ting and sealing deep high-pressure high-temperature
per standard operating procedure and the ROV will lock the (HPHT) well intervention components:
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

0093 the configuration of the well intervention systems d) a collapse-resistant flexible hose fluidly connecting the
and methods are simplified using proven and existing LRP to the subsea tree.
components; 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a marine riser,
0094 the wellhead bending moment is reduced; a riser mandrel connecting the marine riser to a flexible joint,
0.095 fewer offshore personnel may be required to run the flexible joint connected to the body of the EDP and
and operate the system; pressure containing tubulars inserted through the marine riser
0096 there is an ability to circulate the contents of the and connected to the ITBT.
internal riser before and after disconnect; 3. The system of claim 2, further comprising a first flexible
0097 there is an ability to test and circulate between hose connecting the marine riser via a marine riser mandrel to
in-situ horizontal tree crown plugs; an annulus isolation valve of the EDP.
0.098 the method and system uses the existing IWOCS 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a choke or kill
(umbilical and HPU) of horizontal trees—no additional line.
complex control system is required; 5. The system of claim 4, further comprised of a second
0099 the method and system can use all marine drilling collapse-resistant flexible hose, wherein the flexible hose
riser fluid conduits (choke, kill, boost and hydraulic connects the LRP body to the subsea tree to provide another
supply) including the BOPHPU; and circulation path via the choke or kill line.
0100 the system can readily be deployed from alterna 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more EDP
tive drilling rigs without the need for new equipment sealing elements comprises one or more sealing rams in the
with long lead times, or the need to commit to long term EDP body.
rentals. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein at least one of said one or
0101 From the foregoing detailed description of specific more rams is an inverted blind shear ram.
embodiments, it should be apparent that patentable methods 8. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more
and systems have been described. Although specific embodi subsystems from an existing BOP system, selected from a
ments of the disclosure have been described herein in some subsea tree's existing Installation WorkOver Control System
detail, this has been done solely for the purposes of describing (IWOCS) umbilical and HPU in conjunction with a subsea
various features and aspects of the methods and systems, is control system comprising an umbilical termination assem
not intended to be limiting with respect to the scope of the bly (UTA), an ROV panel, accumulators, solenoid valves, an
methods and systems. Further, the examples of the sizes, acoustic backup Subsystem, a Subsea emergency disconnect
dimensions, diameters and pressure-ratings of the compo assembly (SEDA), hydraulic electric flying leads, or combi
nents and parts that may be useful in practicing the methods nations thereof.
and systems disclosed herein, are not intended to be limiting 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more LRP
with respect to the scope of the methods and systems. It is sealing elements are selected from the group consisting of at
contemplated that various Substitutions, alterations, and/or least one shearing ram and at least one sealing ram, at least
modifications, including but not limited to those implemen one shearing-sealing ram, a gate valve, a ball valve, another
tation variations which may have been Suggested herein, may type of Valve, two or more shearing and sealing rams, two or
be made to the described embodiments without departing more shearing-sealing rams, or a combination thereof.
from the scope of the appended claims. 10. A riserless well intervention system comprising:
What is claimed is: a) a lower riser package (LRP) comprising a tree connector,
1. A marine riser well intervention tie-back system com a connector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a lower
prising: riser package body (LRP body),
a) a lower riser package (LRP) comprising a tree connector, wherein the tree connector comprises an upper flange
a connector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a lower having a gasket profile formating to a lower end of the
riser package body (LRP body), wherein: CSSA,
the tree connector comprises an upper flange having a wherein the CSSA comprises at least one seal stab
gasket profile formating to a lower end of the CSSA, assembly on its lower end for fluidly connecting to a
wherein the CSSA comprises at least one seal stab Subsea tree,
assembly on its lower end for fluidly connecting to a wherein the LRP body comprises one or more LRP
Subsea tree, sealing elements capable of sealing upon command,
wherein the LRP body is comprised of one or more LRP and an integral annulus with at least one annulus
sealing elements capable of sealing upon command, isolation valve, and
and an integral annulus with at least one annulus wherein the LRP body comprises an upper hub profile
isolation valve, and compatible with an EDP connector and lower flange
wherein the LRP body is further comprised of an upper profile that fluidly mates with the CSSA;
hub profile compatible with an EDP connector and b) an emergency disconnect package (EDP) removably
lower flange profile that fluidly mates with the CSSA: connected to the LRP, wherein the EDP comprises a
b) an emergency disconnect package (EDP) removably body (EDP body) having a quick disconnect connector
connected to the LRP, wherein: on its lower end, one or more EDP Sealing elements
the EDP comprises a body (EDP body) having a quick capable of sealing upon command, and at least one annu
disconnect connector on its lower end, one or more lus isolation valve;
EDP Sealing elements capable of sealing upon com c) an adapter removably connected to the EDP comprising
mand, and at least one annulus isolation valve, the a lower flange connection and an upper profile for con
EDP body having an internal tie-back profile; necting to the Subsea lubricator,
c) an internal tie-back tool (ITBT) removably connected to d) a collapse-resistant flexible hose fluidly connecting the
the EDP body via the internal tie-back profile; and LRP to the subsea tree; and
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

e) a subsea lubricator fluidly connected to the EDP by an ii) wherein the EDP removably connects to the LRP,
adapter. wherein the EDP comprises a body (EDP body) hav
11. The system of claim 10, further comprised of a Multi ing a quick disconnect connector on its lower end,
Support Rig (MSR), and one or more well intervention one or more EDP Sealing elements capable of seal
assemblies fed through the lubricator from the MSR, wherein ing upon command, and at least one annulus isola
the well intervention assembly is selected from the group tion valve, and wherein the EDP body has an inter
consisting of a slick line, an e-line, or a combination thereof. nal tie-back profile;
12. A marine riser well intervention tie-back system com b) deploying an pressure containing tubulars with an inter
prising: nal tie-back tool (ITBT) attached thereto through the
a) a lower riser package (LRP) comprised of a tree connec marine riser;
tor, a connector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a c) connecting the pressure containing tubulars to a surface
lower riser package body (LRP body), flow tree;
wherein the tree connector comprises an upper flange d) landing the ITBT in the body of the EDP and locking the
having a gasket profile formating to a lower end of the ITBT to the EDP body; and
CSSA, e) performing a well intervention operation using the EDP/
LRP, ITBT, and pressure containing tubulars.
wherein the CSSA comprises at least one seal stab 15. The method of claim 14, wherein well intervention
assembly on its lower end for fluidly connecting to a operation is further comprised of deploying additional well
Subsea tree, intervention devices selected from the group consisting of
wherein the LRP body comprises one or more LRP slickline, e-line, coiled tubing, jointed tubulars, or a combi
sealing elements capable of sealing upon command, nation thereof.
and an integral annulus with at least one annulus 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the well intervention
isolation valve, and operation is selected from the group consisting of well
wherein the LRP body comprises an upper hub profile completion, well clean-up, flow testing, diagnostic well
compatible with an EDP connector and lower flange work, well stimulation, well workover, bullheading opera
profile that fluidly mates with the CSSA; tions, for killing a well, for shutting-in a well, for plugging a
b) an emergency disconnect package (EDP) removably well, for abandoning a well, or a combination thereof.
connected to the LRP, wherein the EDP comprises a 17. The method of claim 16, wherein, in the event the well
body (EDP body) having a quick disconnect connector needs to be safely shut in, a sequence of closure steps is
on its lower end, one or more EDP Sealing elements carried out using, in order, the means for sealing in the LRP,
capable of sealing upon command, and at least one annu the means for sealing in the EDP and the quick disconnect
lus isolation valve; connector of the EDP.
c) an open water completion workover riser system 18. A method of riserless well intervention comprising:
(CWOR), comprised of a riser, a surface tension system, a) deploying an emergency disconnect package (EDP)/
and a Surface tree, wherein the riser removably connects lower riser package (LRP) stack Subsea on a Subsea tree
the surface tree to the body of the EDP; and connected to a well;
d) a collapse-resistant flexible hose fluidly connecting the i) wherein the LRP comprises a tree connector, a con
LRP to the subsea tree. nector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a lower riser
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the CWOR comprises package body (LRP body),
at least one tapered stress joint, and wherein the Surface wherein the tree connector comprises an upper flange
tension system is selected from fixed lock-off tensioner sys having a gasket profile formating to a lower end of
tems, and hydro-pneumatic tensioner systems. the CSSA,
14. A method of well intervention, comprising: wherein the CSSA comprises at least one seal stab
a) deploying an emergency disconnect package (EDP)/ assembly on its lower end for fluidly connecting to
lower riser package (LRP) stack Subsea on a Subsea tree a Subsea tree,
connected to a well, the EDP/LRP stack being on an end wherein the LRP body comprises one or more LRP
of a marine riser, sealing elements capable of sealing upon com
i) wherein the LRP comprises a tree connector, a con mand, and an integral annulus with at least one
nector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a lower riser annulus isolation valve, and wherein the LRP body
package body (LRP body), comprises an upper hub profile compatible with an
EDP connector and lower flange profile that fluidly
wherein the tree connector comprises an upper flange mates with the CSSA;
having a gasket profile formating to a lower end of ii) wherein the EDP removably connects to the LRP,
the CSSA, wherein the EDP comprises a body (EDP body) hav
wherein the CSSA comprises at least one seal stab ing a quick disconnect connector on its lower end,
assembly on its lower end for fluidly connecting to one or more EDP Sealing elements capable of seal
a Subsea tree, ing upon command, and at least one annulus isola
wherein the LRP body is comprised of one or more tion valve, and wherein the EDP body has an inter
LRP sealing elements capable of sealing upon nal tie-back profile;
command, and an integral annulus with at least one iii) wherein the EDP has an adapter removably attached
annulus isolation valve, to the EDP body, and a lubricator removably attached
wherein the LRP body comprises an upper hub profile to the adapter; and
compatible with an EDP connector and lower b) performing a well intervention operation using the EDP/
flange profile that fluidly mates with the CSSA: LRP and lubricator.
US 2010/002SO44 A1 Feb. 4, 2010

19. The method of claim 18, wherein well intervention wherein the LRP body comprises one or more LRP
operation further comprises using a well bore intervention sealing elements capable of sealing upon command,
device selected from the group consisting of a slickline, an and an integral annulus with at least one annulus
e-line, or a combination thereof. isolation valve, and wherein the LRP body compris
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the well intervention ing an upper hub profile compatible with an EDP
operation is selected from the group consisting of well clean connector and lower flange profile that fluidly mates
up, flow testing, diagnostic well work, well stimulation, well with the CSSA;
workover, bullheading operations, for killing a well, for shut ii) wherein the EDP removably connects to the LRP, and
ting-in a well, for plugging a well, for abandoning a well, or wherein the EDP comprising a body (EDP body) hav
a combination thereof. ing a quick disconnect connector on its lower end, one
21. The method of claim 20, wherein if the well must be or more EDP Sealing elements capable of sealing
shut in, a sequence of closure steps is carried out by first upon command, and at least one annulus isolation
cutting the well bore intervention device, and then sealing the valve, the EDP body having an internal tie-back pro
LRP by using said one or more LRP sealing elements. file; and
22. A method of well intervention, comprising: b) performing a well intervention operation using the EDP/
a) deploying an emergency disconnect package (EDP)/ LRP stack and CWOR system.
lower riser package (LRP) stack Subsea on a Subsea tree 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the well intervention
connected to a well, wherein the EDP/LRP stack is a operation further comprises using a well bore intervention
Sub-system of an open water completion workover riser device selected from the group consisting of a slickline, an
system (CWOR), c-line, or a combination thereof.
wherein the CWOR system comprises a tapered stress
joint, one or more riser joints, a surface tension joint, 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the well intervention
Surface termination joints, a Surface tree and Surface operation is selected from the group consisting of well
tension system, and wherein the CWOR system fluidly completion, well clean-up, flow testing, diagnostic well
connects the surface tree to a body of the EDP (EDP work, well stimulation, well workover, bullheading opera
body); tions, for killing a well, for shutting-in a well, for plugging a
i) wherein the LRP is comprised of a tree connector, a well, for abandoning a well, or a combination thereof.
connector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a LRP 25. The method of claim 22, wherein one or more steps
body, employ an ROV.
wherein the tree connector comprises an upper flange 26. The method of claim 24, wherein if the well must be
having a gasket profile formating to a lower end of the shut in, a sequence of closure steps is carried out by first
CSSA, sealing the LRP, sealing the EDP and causing the quick
wherein the CSSA comprises at least one seal stab disconnect connector of the EDP to disconnect.
assembly on its lower end for fluidly connecting to the
c c c c c
Subsea tree,