Estimation of shear force for blind shear ram blowout preventers

In this study, the estimation of shear force for blind shear ram type blowout preventer was investigated by using Finite Element Method (FEM). So, the effect of the blowout preventer working condition on shear force requirement for shear operation could be accurately approximated by simulating the entire process, and ram geometry could be optimized to reduce force and energy used to shear the tube by plastic deformation. The results of FEM analyzes was compared with blowout preventer manufacturer shear force information. Comparisons show that forces evaluated by using FEM (Deform 3D) simulations provided fairly accurate results for actual shear force. Also, it was found that by using Finite Element simulations the effect of the blowout preventer working condition on shearing operation can be estimated and ram geometries can be optimized. Therefore, FEM analyses could be used to design more reliable and efficient ram type blowout preventers.