A slimmed-down 10k psi capping stack has been unveiled by the Marine Well Containment Company (MWCC) for use in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico.

The 50 ton capping stack, which stands 8 m (25 ft) tall including the necessary lifting gear, is an addition to the company’s initial and larger 15k psi containment system first made available in February 2011, it said.

“The 10k psi capping stack is a result of feedback we received from member companies who operate facilities with wells closer together that are not as easily accessed by our larger capping stack,” said Marty Massey, chief executive officer of MWCC. “The addition of the 10k psi capping stack is the latest example of ongoing system enhancements and our efforts to keep pace with members’ needs in the deepwater U.S. Gulf of Mexico.”

In support of MWCC, Shell agreed to lead the design and construction efforts for the 10k psi capping stack. With a footprint of 9 ft by 9 ft, the new stack is easier to maneuver in areas where well- heads and riser systems are closely spaced, such as Tension Leg Platform (TLP) applications, where wells are situated beneath the floating production facility.

The new dual ram capping stack can cap a well in water depths of up to 3,048 m (10,000 ft).

The 10k psi stack is an addition to the 15k psi capping stack – the centrepiece of MWCC’s original interim containment system.